


lA 



<S\ 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER I. 
The Brain and Nervous System— Their Accidents and their Diseases. 



Phrenitis — Abscess within the Brain. 19 
Staggers — Sleepy Staggers and Mad 

Staggers 20 

Megrims 24 

Hydrophobia 27 



Tetanus 28 

Stringhalt 33 

Partial Paralysis 36 

Gutta Serena 38 



CHAPTER II. 
The Eyes— Their Accidents and their Diseases. 



Simple Ophthalmia 42 

Specific Ophthalmia 46 

Cataract 54 



Fungoid Tumors within the Sub- 
stance of the Eye 57 

Lacerated Eyelid 60 

Impediment in the Lachrymal Duct.. 61 



CHAPTER III. 
The Mouth— Its Accidents and its Diseases. 



Excoriated Angles of the Mouth 64 

Parrot Mouth 66 

Lampas 67 

Injuries to the Jaw 69 



Aphtha 73 

Lacerated Tongue 74 

Teeth 78 

Scald Mouth 82 



CHAPTER IV. 
The Nostrils— Their Accidents and their Diseases. 



Cold 

Nasal Polypus. 



84 



Nasal Gleet 91 

Highblowing and Wheezing 94 



CHAPTER V. 
The Throat— Its Accidents and its Diseases. 



Sore Throat 96 

Cough 99 

Laryngitis 101 

Roaring 106 



Choking 110 

Rupture and Stricture of the 

(Esophagus 115 

Bronchocele 119 

(13) 



14 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER VI. 
The Chest and its Contents— Their Accidents and their Diseases. 



Congestion in the Field 121 

Congestion in the Stable 123 

Bronchitis, or Inflammation of the 
Air-passages 125 



Pneumonia, or Inflammation of the 

Lungs 130 

Pleurisy 136 

■ Hydrothorax 139 

Disease of the Heart 143 



CHAPTER VII. 
The Stomach, Liver, etc.— Their Accidents and their Diseases. 



Spasm of the Diaphragm 145 

Acute Gastritis 147 

Chronic Gastritis 150 



Dots 152 

Chronic Hepatitis 158 

Crib-biting 162 



CHAPTER VIII. 
The Abdomen— Its Accidents and its Diseases. 



Enteritis 165 

Acute Dysentery 172 

Chronic Dysentery 175 

Acites, or Dropsy of the Abdomen.. 178 
Influenza 181 



Abdominal Injuries 184 

Worms 190 

Spasmodic Colic; Fret; Gripes 194 

Windy Colic 199 



CHAPTER IX. 
The TJrinary Organs— Their Accidents and their Diseases. 



Nephritis, or Inflammation of the 
Kidneys 204 

Cystitis, or Inflammation of the 
Bladder 209 

Spasm of the Urethra. 212 



Calculi 213 

Hematuria, or Bloody Urine 215 

Diabetes Insipidus, or Profuse Stal- 
ing 217 

Albuminous Urine 218 



CHAPTER X. 
The Skin— Its Accidents and its Diseases. 



Mange 220 

Prurigo 226 

Ring-worm 227 

Surfeit 229 

Hide-bound 231 

Lice 232 

Larva in the Skin 233 



Warts 235 

Tumors 237 

Swollen Legs 239 

Sitfast 240 

Grease 242 

Mallenders and Sallendcrs 249 

Cracked Heels 250 



CONTENTS. 



15 



CHAPTER XI. 
Specific Diseases— Their Varieties and their Treatment. 



Broken Wind 254 

Melanosis 259 

Water Farcy 262 

Purpura Hemorrhagica 265 



Strangles 267 

Glanders 274 

Farcy 282 



CHAPTER XII. 
Limbs— Their Accidents and their Diseases. 



Osseous Deposits — Spavin 286 

Splint 294 

Ring-bone 298 

Strain of the Flexor Tendon 300 

Clap of the Back Sinews 302 

Sprain of the Back Sinews 303 

Breaking Down .' 304 

Curb 806 

Occult Spavin 308 



Rheumatism 312 

Wind-galls 315 

Bog Spavin 318 

Thorough-pin 319 

Capped Knee 321 

Capped Hock 321 

Capped Elbow 324 

Luxation of the Patella 325 

Blood Spavin 328 



CHAPTER XIII. 



The Feet— Their Accidents and their Diseases. 

Canker 358 

Thrush 363 

Ossified Cartilages 366 

Acute Laminitis, or Fever in the 

Feet ; 367 

Subacute Laminitis 375 

Navicular Disease 377 



Lameness 330 

Pumice Foot 339 

Sandcrack 342 

False Quarter 345 

Seedy Toe 346 

Tread and Overreach 348 

Corns 349 



Quitter 354 



CHAPTER XIV. 
Injuries— Their Nature and their Treatment. 



Poll Evil 388 

Fistulous Withers 391 

Fistulous Parotid Duct 394 

Phlebitis, or Inflammation of the 
Vein 398 



Broken Rnees 404 

Open Synovial Cavities 412 

Open Synovial Joints 418 

Wounds 423 



CHAPTER XV. 
Operations. 



Operations 484 

Tracheotomy 443 

Periosteotomy 449 



Neurotomy * 451 

Division of the Tendons 457 

Quittor 462 






THE 



ILLUSTRATED HORSE DOCTOR. 



CHAPTER I. 



THE BRAIN AND NERVOUS SYSTEM — THEIR ACCIDENTS AND THEIR 

DISEASES. 



PHRENITIS. 



Phrenitis implies inflammation of the brain. Madness and extreme 
violence are the consequences. The animal, in this condition, disregards 
all recognitions, and, apparently, loses all timidity. It suffers the 







A HORSE MAD, OR WITH INFLAMMATION OF THE BRAIN. 

greatest agony, and no terror can appal it. It would rejoice, could it 
anticipate the effects, if the mouth of a loaded cannon were pointed 

2 (It) 



18 PHilENITIS. 

toward itself, and would look for relief when the portfire descended 
upon the touch-hole. Every movement seems designed to end its own 
existence ; but the furor has no malice in it. The creature strives only 
to injure himself. It may in its efforts shatter and demolish the struc- 
tures which surround it; but it does so without intention. That is 
merely the result of its being carried away beyond the things of this 
world by a mighty anguish. It desires harm to no one; but it cannot 
remain quiescent, and endure the torment which rages within its skull. 

When this stage of the malady appears, the best thing is to antici- 
pate the evident wish of the animal. The teaching of schools, which 
instructs young men to meddle with the strength of an infuriated horse, 
is mere prattle. However, if the disease, as it seldom happens, is per- 
ceived approaching, something may be attempted. Before the violence 
commences, the horse is generally dull. It does not obey the rein or 
answer to the lash. It is heavy beyond man's control. It snores as it 
breathes. The lids drop ; the head sinks ; the body is cold ; the mem- 
brane of the nose is leaden in color; and, from being the obedient, 
watchful, and willing slave, its entire nature appears to have changed. 
It does not attend to the goad, and the voice of the driver may bawl in 
the harshest key, but the sound which used to excite seems unheard and 
is unheeded. 

The remedy for the earlier stage is copious blood-letting. Open 
both jugulars and allow the current to flow till the countenance bright- 
ens or the animal sinks. Bleed again and again, if necessary. Give 
purgatives of double strength, and repeat them every three hours, till 
the bowels are copiously relieved or the pulse changes, or the general 
appearance indicates improvement. Afterward, administer sedatives, 
always as infusions. A scruple of tobacco, half a drachm of aconite 
root, or a drachm of digitalis should have a pint of hot water poured 
upon it. When the liquid is nearly cold, it should be strained, and the 
dose may be repeated every half hour, until its operation is witnessed 
in the more quiet behavior of the animal. 

In the generality of cases, however, no opportunity for such treat- 
ment is presented. The disease is most common in the agricultural dis- 
tricts, and is usually seen where carters indulge their passion in the 
butt-end of the whip employed upon the horse's head. The cause is, 
however, carefully concealed, and, after the violent stage has set in, the 
original wound is generally mistaken for some self-inflicted injury. 
Thus, the horse, even in the most horrid of deaths, with a generosity 
characteristic of its nature, contrives to shield the being whom it served 
and loved, from the consequences of his inhumanity. 

Should the animal, by such means, recover, treat it gently ; do not 



ABSCESS WITHIN THE BRAIN. 



19 



excite.it; for phrenitis is apt to return. Even recovery is not always 
to be wished for. The depletion, imperative for the cure, too often 
engenders the weakness which no care can eradicate ; and the animal 
survives only to change from the willing servant into a troublesome 
valetudinarian. 

ABSCESS WITHIN THE BRAIN. 

This sad affection is invariably produced by external injury. A horse 
runs away and comes in contact with some hard substance. The blow 
is of sufficient violence to fracture the strong cranium of the quadruped 
and to smash all that remains harnessed to the animal. Here we have 
a reason why man should establish more than a brutal mastery over the 




A HORSE DTINO FROM ABSCESS WITHIN THE BRAIN. 



animal he possesses. The horse is the most timid of creatures. It, 
however, quickly learns to recognize the voice of its owner. In its vast 
affection, it soon trusts with confidence to the person who is kind to it. 
An occasional word thrown to a patient and willing servant, spoken 
softly to the animal which is putting forth all its strerigth for our pleas- 
ure, would not be cast away. When dread overpowers the horse and it 
begins to run at its topmost speed, do not pull the reins : the first check 
should be given by the voice. Speak cheerfully to a timid creature. If 
the first word produces no effect, repeat it. Watch the ears. If these 
are turned backward to catch the accents, talk encouragingly to the 
horse. The voice of one it loves will restore its confidence. The pace 
will slacken. Talk on, but always in a tone calculated to soothe dis- 
tress. Then gently touch the reins. The first gentle movement may 
not be responded to, but the second or the third will be ; and the animal, 
released from terror, is once more under your control. 

This is much better than tugging and flogging, which obviously are 
thrown away upon a body that horror has deprived of sensation. The 



iJO STAGGERS. 

noise and the resistance but feed the wildness of the fear, and, in the 
end, the driver is carried to a hospital, the horse being laid prostrate 
among the ruins it has made. 

When led back to the stable, a wound is discovered on the animal's 
forehead. It is so small it is deemed of no consequence. A little 
water oozes from it — that is all — it does not send forth matter, or it 
might deserve attention. However, in a short time the horse becomes 
dull. It will not eat. Soon it falls down and commences dashing its 
head upon the pavement. There it lies, and, day and night, continues 
its dreadful occupation. One side of the face is terribly excoriated, and 
must be acutely painful ; but the horrid labor still goes on, each stroke 
shaking the solid earth, which it indents. At last death ends the misery, 
and a small abscess, containing about half a drachm of healthy pus, is 
discovered in the superficial substance of the brain. 

Physic or operation is of no use here. The cranium of the horse is 
covered by the thick temporalis muscles. This alone would prevent the 
trephine being resorted to. Blood would follow the removal of any 
portion of the skull. Besides, what or who is to keep the head still 
during the operation? and, were the operation possible, who would 
own an animal with a hole in its skull ? The only means of cure would 
be to afiford exit to the matter ; and to do that is beyond human in- 
genuity. 

STAGGERS— SLEEPY STAGGERS AND MAD STAGGERS. 

Staggers means no more than a staggering or unsteady gait; an 
incapacity in the limbs to support the body. It therefore, by itself, 
represents only that want of control over voluntary motion which 
generally accompanies injuries to the brain. Mad and sleepy staggers 
represent only different symptoms or stages of cerebral affection. 
Sleepy staggers implies the dull stage, which indicates that the brain 
is oppressed. Mad staggers denotes the furious stage, when the brain 
has become acutely inflamed. 

There is but one origin known for staggers, and that is over-feeding. 
Carters take the team out and forget the nose-bags. The omission is 
not discovered till far on the road. No thought is entertained of turn- 
ing back. The poor drudges, consequently, have to journey far, to pull 
hard and long upon empty stomachs. 

When home is at length reached, the driver thinks to make amends 
for neglect ; the rack and manger are loaded. Such animals as are not 
too tired to feed, eat ravenously. The stomach is soon crammed ; but 
fatigue has weakened the natural instincts, and domestication has taught 
the horse to depend entirely on man. The creature continues to feed, 



STAGGERS, 21 

till a distended stomach produces an oppressed brain. An uneasy sleep 
interrupts the gormandizing. The eye closes and the head droops. 
Suddenly the horse awakens with a start. It looks around, becomes 
assured and takes another mouthful. However, before mastication can 
be completed, sleep intervenes, and the morsel falls from the mouth or 
continues retained between the jaws. 

This state may continue for days. The horse may perish without 
recovering its sensibility ; or mad staggers may at any period succeed, 
and the animal exhibit the extreme of violence. 

Mad staggers equally results from carelessness in the horsekeeper. 
The animal which gives itself up entirely to the custody of man, too 
often experiences a fearful return in recompense for its trustfulness. 
Any neglect with regard to the feeding of a horse, may entail the 
worst; and a most cruel death upon the inhabitant of the stable is too 
often its reward. The groom, perhaps, may slight his work, lock the 
stable door and hurry to his beer-shop, leaving the lid of the corn-bin 
unclosed. The horse in his stall, with his exquisite sense of smell, 
scents the pro vender .and becomes restless. His desire is to escape from 
the halter. With fatal ingenuity the object is accomplished, and the 
next moment the animal stands with its nose among the coveted oats. 
It eats and eats as only that being can whose highest pleasures are 
limited to animal enjoyments. After a time it becomes lethargic ; but 
from that state it is soon aroused by a burning thirst. The corn has 
absorbed all the moisture of the stomach, the viscus being dry and dis- 
tended. Pain must be felt, but thirst is the predominant feeling. Water 
is sought for. None is to be found ; and the sufferer takes his station 
near the door, to await the appearance of his attendant. 

No sooner is the entrance opened, than the quadruped dashes out. . 
With all speed it makes for the nearest pond. There it drinks the long' 
and the sweet draught few in this life can taste ; but to know which, is 
to die a terrible death. The corn swells more with the liquid imbibed. 
The stomach is now stretched to the uttermost. Continued tension 
causes inflammation. The brain sympathizes, and the horse speedily 
becomes acutely phreuitic. 

There is, however, a strange symptom, in which the two disorders 
appear mingled. The sleepy fit is not entirely removed, nor are the 
violent symptoms fully developed. The horse, in this condition, will 
press its head against a wall. In doing this, it only displays an impulse 
common to most animals in the sleepy stage ; but the peculiarity is, that 
the eye may be half unclosed and the limbs vigorously employed, as 
though a trotting match were going forward. The breath will quicken 
and the creature be coated with perspiration. This attitude and motion 



^2 



STAGGERS. 



may subside, and recovery may ensue; but commonly the quadruped 
drops, moves the limbs as it lies upon the ground, and is only quieted 
by death. In a few instances horses have left the wall to exhibit the 
utmost violence, and to sink at last. 

When corn has been gorged during the night, the animal must be 
rigidly kept from drinking. A quart of any oil should be immediately 
administered. A pint of oil is the ordinary dose ; but here there exists 
more than an ordinary disease. Besides, much of the fluid will sink 
between the grains, and, probably, not half of it will reach the mem- 
brane of the stomach. 

Oil is preferable to the solution of aloes, which is generally given, 
inasmuch as it will not act upon or swell the corn so readily as any 
medicine dissolved in water. Should no amendment be detected, in six 
hours repeat the dose. In another six hours, give another dose with 
twenty drops of croton oil in it. When another period has elapsed, 
should no improvement be noted, give thirty drops of croton in another 
quart of oil. Should none of these drinks have taken effect, the round 
must once more be gone over. However, at the slightest mitigation of 
the symptoms or even suspicion of amendment, stop all medicine at 
once. The altered aspect of the horse is the earliest symptom that the 
distention is relieved. 

In sleepy staggers, the head hangs pendulous or is pressed firmly 




SLEEPY STAGOERS, FROM OrER-OORGINO. 



against some prominence. The pulse throbs heavily — ^the breathing is 
laborious, and the animal snores at each inspiration. The eye is closed ; 
the skin cold and the coat staring. The nasal membrane leaden. The 



STAGGERS. 



23 



mouth clammy ; the ears motionless ; the tail without movement, and 
the breathing alone testifies that it is a living animal we look upon. 

The signs that announce the advent of mad staggers, from whichever 
cause the disease may arise, are always alike. The lid is raised, and 
the eye assumes an unnatural brightness. The nasal membrane reddens; 
the surface becomes as hot as it was previously deficient in warmth ; the 
movements are quick and jerking. The breath is no longer laborious — 
it is rapid, sharp, and drawn with a kind of panting action. The whole 
appearance is altered. The characteristics of approaching frenzy can 
hardly be mistaken. 

Then comes the most painful duty of ownership over life. The pro- 
prietor has, then, to make a speedy choice, whether his dumb servant is 
to take a desperate chance and undergo a torture for which the con- 
centrated pleasure of many lives could not atone, or be deprived of the 
fatal power to injure others and itself. Humanity would unhesitatingly 
pronounce for death, and, in this case, there is need of haste. The 
symptoms are so rapidly matured, that, in ten minutes, the poor horse 
may be sadly hurt and bleeding, panting and rearing, in the center of a 




THE HORSE DtmiNa THE MAD STAGE OF STAG8EF,3. 



desolated stable. A mad horse is a terrible object ! Its strength is so 
vast that ordinary fastenings yield before it; but the animal, even when 
deprived of reason, wins our respect. Suff'ering will find expression in 
energetic action. Man, when a tooth is about to be extracted, generally 



24 MEGRIMS. 

clinches something ; but what were a hundred teeth to the agony which 
causes every fiber in the huge framework to quiver ? The perspiration 
rolls off the creature's body. The eye glares with anguish, not with 
malice; the body is strangely contorted, but there is no desire to in- 
jure. Who, contemplating such a picture, could forbear speaking the 
word which should grant peace to the sufferer, although the order neces- 
sitate some violence to the feelings of him who is invested with power to 
command? 

MEGRIMS. 

So little sympathy exists between man and horse, so little are the 
ailments of the animal really studied, that the likeness between certain 
diseases affecting the master and the servant have not been observed. 
Megrims, evidently, is a form of epilepsy ; yet, to speak of an epileptic 
horse would, probably, induce laughter in any society. Notwithstand- 
ing which, man is not isolated in this world : he is associated with the 
creatures of the earth not only by a common habitation, but by similar 
wants and like diseases. He is united by nature to every life that 
breathes. His heart should feel for, and his charity embrace, every 
animal which serves him. He has his duty toward, and is bound by 
obligations to, every creature placed under his control. None are so 
subject to his will as is the horse ; none have such powerful claims to 
his kindness and forbearance. The noble animal is begotten by man's 
permission; its course in life depends upon his word: for his service it 
surrenders everything — freedom, companions, and paternity— it relin- 
quishes all. Its owner's pleasure becomes its delight; its master's pro- 
fit is its recreation. It is the perfect type of an abandoned slave ; body 
and soul, it devotes itself to captivity. It is sad to think how bitter is 
its recompense, when an obvious similarity, even in affliction, has not to 
this hour been recognized. 

Megrims, like epilepsy in man, will in certain subjects appear only 
during some kind of exertion. In others, it will be present only during 
particular states of rest. It is uncertain in its attacks. It is not under- 
stood ; and of the many theories which have been advanced, none ex- 
. plain it. 

All horses may show megrims; some when at work, and some only 
while in the stable ; others in the glare of day, and a few during the 
darkness of night ; but of all, draught horses are the most liable to the 
malady. This may be because harness horses are subjected to the most 
laborious and most continuous species of toil. A horse fettered to a 
vehicle obviously must strain to propel as much or as long as the person 
intrusted with the whip thinks the animal should draw. Men's con- 



MEGRIMS. 



25 



sciences, where their own convenience and another's exertions are the 
stake, generally possess an elastic property. It takes a great deal to 
stretch them to the utmost. An Arabian proverb says, "it is the last 
feather which breaks the camel's back;" but the English driver knows 
the entire pull is upon the collar, and he is moved by no considerations 
about the back. If the whip cannot flog the poor flesh onward, a shout 
and a heavy kick under the belly may excite the spasm, which, in its 
severity, shall put the load in motion. 

Age does not influence the liability to megrims. The colt, which has 
done no work, may exhibit the disease, and the old stager may not be 
subject to its attacks. One horse may die in the field from exertion and 
never display the malady ; another shall be led through the streets and 
exemplify megrims in all its severity. One shall be merely dull — the 
disorder shall never get to the acute stage, though the fits may be re- 
peated. This last, to the surprise of its master, shall every now and 
then stop, stare about, and proceed as though nothing were the matter. 
A second, when mounted, will be seized by a sudden impulse and run 
into shop doors; while a third, being between the shafts, will be pos- 
sessed with an irrepressible desire to inspect the driver's boots. 

The horse often becomes suddenly stubborn. The reins are jagged 
and the whip plied to no purpose. The animal will only go its own 
way, which is commonly beset with danger. Perhaps, it may persist 
upon galloping, head foremost, down an open sewer; probably, it will 
rush up the steps leading to some mansion, and beat the door in with 
tremendous knocking. 

Then come convulsions, followed by insensibility. If such a scene 
occur in a city, of course a crowd collects. Opinions are noisy and 
various; but a majority incline toward 
bleeding from the mouth. It is only to 
cut the palate, and a dozen knives, already 
opened, are profi'ered for the purpose. 
However, let the person in charge attend 
to no street suggestion. Let him at once 
seat himself upon the horse's head, and re- 
main there till consciousness returns ; then 
speak kindly to the sufferer, loosen the har- 
ness, and take care that the animal is per- 
fectly recovered befpre it is permitted to 



rise. 




THE EXPRESSIOy CHARACTERISTIC OF 
REPEATED ATTACKS OF MEGRIMS. 



Dealers pretend that a horse subject to 
megrims is to be readily told. A horse, after repeated fits, is easily 
singled out; but the animal which has experienced only a single attack, 



26 MEGRIMS. , 

110 man could challenge. One attack, however severe may be its char- 
acter, will not necessarily leave its impress upon the countenance. But 
the creature subject to such visitations soon assumes a heavy, flaccid, 
and stupid expression. The disease distorts no feature, but it leaves its 
mark behind; and any man, acquainted with the subject, would have 
no difficulty in picking from a drove the horse which has endured re- 
peated fits of this disorder. 

Another class of knowing ones pretend they can drive a megrimed 
horse any distance, by simply keeping a wet cloth over the brain. This 
last experiment is, however, not inviting; and the author has yet to be 
assured by science that a wet rag over the brain would repose upon 
the primary seat of the disease. 

When a horse has the first fit of megrims, at once throw the animal 
up. Do not strive to sell the diseased creature, as such a sale is illegal. 
The law presumes everything sold to be fit for its uses. Thus, a person 
buying rotten eggs can recover at law, because eggs are sold for human 
food, and no man can eat a tainted egg. So a megrimed horse is unfit 
for employment. Recovery in this disease is always doubtful. A chance 
is best secured by throwing the horse up on the first attack. Do not 
turn a sick animal out to grass. Keep in a loose box, covered with 
plenty of straw. Feed liberally, and with the best food. Have the 
body regularly dressed, and the animal led to, not ridden to, exercise. 
Allow a quart of stout every morning and half a pint of oil every night. 
Above all things, attend to the stabling. Let the box be large and well 
ventilated. Food is eaten but occasionally during the day. Air is as 
essential as more substantial nutriment to life, and is consumed night 
and day. Food has to undergo a complicated change, and to travel far, 
before it joins the blood. Air is no sooner inhaled than it is imme- 
diately absorbed by the blood. After such a statement, it is left to the 
reader's reason to decide upon the importance of pure air toward sus- 
taining health. Probably, were stables erected with a little less regard 
to the proprietor's expense and the builder's convenience ; probably, were 
they made in some degree proportioned to the magnitude of their future 
inhabitants, and were the comfort of the captive a very little considered 
in their construction, — the health of a horse might not be so very telling 
a proverb; while megrims, under a better treatment, if it did not dis- 
appear, might not be so very common. 



■HYDROPHOBIA. 27 



HYDROPHOBIA. 

This is always the fruit of contagion, received from some stable-pet, 
in the shape of a clog or cat. It is essentially a nervous disorder. 
From the first, it influences the brain to a degree which no other malady 
seems capable of exercising. The animal constantly licks some portion 
of the body. The place appears to itch violently, and the tongue is 
applied with an energy and a perseverance highly characteristic of an 
over- wrought nervous distemper. The appetite always is affected; 
sometimes it is ravenous. The rack is not only emptied with unusual 
speed, but the bed, however soiled, is also consumed with more than 
apparent relish. Generally, however, the desire for provender is de- 
stroyed. Sometimes, the longing for fluids is morbidly increased. The 
horse plunges his head to the bottom of the pail, will bite at the groom 
who endeavors to interrupt the draught, or seize the wood between its 
teeth and crush it with a powerful gripe. More frequently, water will 
cause spasm, and be avoided with horror. The animal's likings may be 
morbidly changed: it will occasionally devour its own excrement, and 
lick up its emissions. 

The nervous system is always highly developed. The horse starts at 
the smallest sound, trembles violently without a cause, flies backward, 
hangs upon the halter, stares wildly, 
and bursts into a copious sweat 
without any apparent reason being 
detected. Its voice is also changed, 
and the expression of the counte- 
nance invariably altered. The neigh 
is squeaking, and the face is at the 
commencement characterized by 
immense anxiety, which is soon 
changed for a peculiar , aspect of 
cunning, mixed with a grinning 

ferocitv "^^^ countenance of a noKSE with hydrophobia. 

Rarely, however, all the foregoing symptoms are absent. The horse 
is harnessed and taken to work. Suddenly it stops, appears stupid, 
and threatens to fall. In a short time it recovers, and the labor is 
proceeded with. The fits occur again and again. At length they 
end in violent shivering. When the tremor ceases, the recognition 
is not perfectly recovered. The breathing is quick and sharp; the 
eye bright and wild. The animal is turned homeward, but seldom 
reaches the stable before the furious stage begins. 




28 



TETANUS. 



Hydrophobia is commonly matured before the expiration of the sixth 
week. A fortnight is the earliest period of its appearance ; but writers 
have asserted that the imbibed virus will remain dormant for twelve 
months. The author has no experience which justifies the last opinion. 

Whenever a suspicion of this incurable and horrible disorder is enter- 
tained, place the horse by itself in a building with bare walls, but capa- 




THE DESTRUCTIVE IMPULSE OF HYDROPHOBIA. 



ble of being looked into through a window. Put food and water in the 
house, and, if the door be not strong, have it barricaded. Let no one 
enter fot at least three days, as, during this disease, the horse is both 
mischievous and dangerous. The pain is such that it seeks relief in 
destruction. All breathing and moving creatures first attract its rage ; 
but, wanting these, its frenzy is expended in breaking, rending, and 
scattering inanimate objects. Its ability to destroy is only limited by 
the duration of the disorder. 

Let as few people as possible be near the hydrophobic horse. The 
quadruped's nerves are then alive to every impression. The presence 
will be detected, though the person be assiduously concealed. The 
sound of breathing even adds to the torture. Keep all people away 
but one; and that one should be the best shot in the neighborhood. 
Let him approach, aim steadily, and pull the trigger ; for a bullet well 
placed is the only remedy the author knows which can stay this fearful 
disorder. 

TETANUS. 

Tetanus is defined to be spasm of the muscles of voluntary motion. 
That definition is right, as far as it goes. The disease, however, is the 
^ame in man and horse. The human being complains of the breathing 



TETANUS. 29 

being much oppressed, and of pain at the pit of the stomach. Such 
complaints show the diaphragm to be involved, while the large doses 
of strong medicine which can be swallowed with impunity prove the 
abdominal contents have not escaped. Therefore, the author regards 
tetanus as spasm of the entire muscular system, 

A horse of any age may exhibit tetanus. Colts, newly dropped, have 
displayed the disorder, and all animals are liable to its attacks ; but the 
very aged are least subject to this malady. Animals of a highly nerv- 
ous temperament are most inclined toward it. 

It is said to be of two kinds ; but, in truth, it only has two origins. 
Traumatic tetanus is when it springs' from a wound ; idiopathic tetanus 
is when it appears without there being any known lesion to account for 
its presence. It may display its symptoms immediately or within a 
month of the injury. From the sixth to the fourteenth day is the most 
likely period for the advent of the disorder. 

Cold, rain, draughts of air, and too much light, are all likely to ori- 
ginate it. Their potency, perhaps, ranges in the order they are placed. 
A gentleman is apt to dismount at some l^spitable house and to leave 
the animal, which- has quickly borne him thither, shivering in the night 
air. The master enjoys himself, probably, more than is good for his 
health. The patient steed waits and waits, more quietly than the most 
faithful of human slaves. It shivers in the night air ; its limbs become 
cramped with the cold. The wind gets up, as the owner, before a cheer- 
ful fire, mixes another glass and takes another cigar. Still the horse 
remains almost in the spot where it was placed. The perspiration which 
covered the body dries in the darkness ; evaporation quickly chills the 
blood which violent exercise had heated. The pulse sinks ; spasms creep 
over the frame, but there is none near to note them. In solitude and 
discomfort the most painful of maladies is imbibed: in due time it 
breaks forth, to the astonishment of the proprietor. 

Another man rides far and fast through a heavy shower. He reaches 
a distant house and flings himself from the saddle, fastening the horse 
to the door-post. Cordials are ready for the man, and business is dis- 
cussed over a glass. No one thinks seriously of the poor life fastened 
to the door-post. "The horse is wet and can take no harm." "The 
gallop home will warm it," and so forth. Therefore, the animal re- 
mains, to be drenched by the rain and to creep as near to the house as 
it may for partial shelter; the posterior part of the body, however, pro- 
jects, and the drops fall, heavy and cold as lead, upon the loins of the 
patient beast. The blood loses its warmth and the limbs their elasticity. 
When the owner again crosses the saddle he may be jolly; but it needs 
both spur and whip to cause the dripping and frozen animal to move. 



30 



TETANUS. 



When tetanus originates in some wound, the horse is generally nerv- 
ous from the first. It fidgets in the stall; it lacks the repose which 
usually sits so beautifully upon the sick horse's frame. It is excited at 
the approach of any person, and, commonly, very obstinate when given 
physic. The wound may, nevertheless, be healthy. Sometimes, as the 
outbreak draws near, the wound may rapidly close, become morbidly 
dry, or, instead of pus, send forth only a foul and scanty serum. Instances 
are narrated of tetanus supervening upon mortification ; but such re- 
ported cases are, in the horse, very rare. Commonly, the wound pre- 
sents no appearance by which any man, however profound his knowledge, 
could guess the consequence to which it had given rise. 

Tetanus is announced by an appearance of excitement. The tail is 
erect; the ears pointed forward; the head elevated; the legs stiffened 

and stretched out. This aspect 
of excitement is not temporary. 
The groom passes through the 
stable and the attitude is main- 
tained. He wonders "what ails 
the horse ?" It seems all alive ; 
yet, though the groom shout out 
" come over," the order is obeyed 
with difficulty. The food is not 
eaten. It is picked and strewed 
about, but not devoured. When 
master returns home, the groom 
wishes he would "just look" at the horse. It is very strange indeed! 
Why, the tail is quivering and the body feels quite hard — not like flesh. 
Hopes are expressed and the "veterinary" sent /or. He proceeds at 
once to the manger, observing the animal as he approaches. With one 
hand he raises the horse's head. The haw is projected over the eye, and 
a case of tetanus is recognized. 

Most persons know what bellyache and cramp are. Well, these are 
but spasms affecting different parts of the body : tetanus is spasm affect- 
ing every part of the body at the same time. The spasm is always pres- 
ent; but it admits of aggravation. Any painful operation, any sudden 
fright, or the slightest sound, will produce a paroxysm, during which the 
horse's body is fearfully contorted ; and the animal writhes as it falls to 
the ground. Left alone, however, the horse may rise after some time; 
for nothing causes the quadruped so much dread as an inability to stand. 
It may totter or fall about, but it refuses to lie down, even though rest 
must be greatly needed and would act as the best of medicine. It stands 
day after day in the same spot. It does not move, as any motion may 




THE TEST FOR TETANUS, WHEN NOT FULLY DEVELOPED. 



TETANUS. 



31 



bring on one of those terrible paroxysms. The matter is rendered worse 
by the brain, during the entire period, being sensible. Every pain is 
felt, and the wretched animal has leisure to appreciate its agony. This 
is bad enough; but the torture is aggravated by the appetite of the 
animal not being dormant. Hunger still exists, and a sense of starva- 
tion augments the suffering. The jaw is closely locked. The creature 
cannot feed; but the presence of hunger is no supposition, for if a 
mash be held to the mouth, with a look of piteous gratitude the liquid 
portion is often drawn through the closed teeth. Hunger frequently 
impels the horse to make a desperate effort. The jaws are forced a lit- 
tle way asunder; a morsel is seized between the incisors; mastication 
commences, but cannot be perfected. The agony attendant upon motion 
forces the famishing creature to desist; and the poor horse is often found 
with a mouthful of hay firmly clenched and hanging from the mouth. 

The animal may have been conspicuous for its beauty. The harmony 
of form may, in it, have been united to agility of limb. The creature 




BHOWINO HOTT FAR AN ANIMAL WITH THE DISEASE IS CAPABLE OF MOTION. 



may have been the pride of its proprietor ; but a few days of this disease 
will work a mighty change. The limbs are moved with difficulty ; the 
body has lost all its undulating grace ; and the flesh has parted with its 
elasticity. The master in vain seeks for the object of his admiration in 
the painful sight which he then looks upon. 



32 TETANUS. 

One peculiarity of tetanus is too marked not to be noticed. Persons 
have complained of the wooden appearance of the body; but, in severe 
cases, the height of the animal seems diminished and the length shortened. 
This appearance is more than the result of mere imagination. Many of 
the bones are divided by a fibro-cartilaginous substance : this substance 
force can compress. For that reason, a man is shorter when he retires 
at night than when he rises in the morning. No weight, however, can 
act with the energy of excited contractibility, and of that tetanus is 
composed : all the muscles are violently in action or energetically con- 
tracting. A single muscle, when excited, shortens to that degree, which 
moves some portion of the body ; but, when the entire mass of muscles 
simultaneously contract, they compress the frame, as in a vice. The 
grace of the animal is lost; the height is diminished, and the length is 
lessened, under so powerful and general an action. 

All kinds of treatment have been tried for tetanus, and it is said that 
each has resulted in success. The majority of these popular methods, 
however, are sheer barbarities ; and if they were successful, they were so 
against probability. The plan at present adopted is much more humane : 
the animal's shoes are removed, that no sound may follow the tread, and 
a solitary shed is strewn with refuse taiv. Food, in the form of an ample 
malt mash and a pail of thin gruel, is placed within easy reach. The 
shed must be approached but once daily — then by the man most accus- 
tomed to the horse ; and he speaks soothingly as he nears the building 
to change the provender. 

This species of treatment, when preceded by a large dose of purgative 
medicine, is usually successful. Mix four drachms of aloes or six drachms 
of aloetic mass, and four drachms of extract of gentian, with one scruple 
of croton ferina. This tremendous purgative may be confidently given, 
as everything during this disease depends upon the maintenance of quiet, 
and upon getting the bowels open. 

As all people, however, may not live where solitude can be com- 
manded ; then, give the purgative, render the room dark, and allow as 
few curious visitors as the pleading of sincerity cannot prevent intruding 
upon the sick and disabled quadruped. Pulling the animal about to 
administer medicine seems to do more harm than the most powerful 
drugs can counteract. Permit no blisters ; sanction no firfng : counter- 
irritants, however beneficial in other cases, are positive irritants, when 
applied to a body nervously excited to the highest degree. Grant per- 
mission for no operation to be performed, as any person of ordinary 
imagination may picture the effect of bustle, followed by sharp pain, 
upon a creature which cannot endure even the slightest sound. 

Should, however, the case last so long as to warrant fear of the 



STRINGHALT. 



life sinking through starvation, food may be given even in quantities. 
Blood- warm linseed gruel should be procured — a gallon will be sufficient 




THE MODE- OP FEEDING A HORSE WITH CHRONIC TETANUS. 

The horse could swallow more ; but after'a prolonged fast there is danger 
in loading the stomach. Fix the horse catheter to the stomach-pump ; 
then place the free end of the catheter in the. nostril of the quadruped 
and push it forward, having previously slightly^bent the end of the tube 
downward. Should the insertion provoke coughing, vrithdraw the 
catheter and commence afresh. Two feet of the instrument having dis- 
appeared, and no alarming symptom being present, begin to pump ; do 
this as fast as possible, till the gallon of linseed gruel has been ex- 
hausted : such a resort is, however, better adapted to tetanus of the 
chronic description. 

When applied to the acute form of the disorder, it is too apt to induce 
violent spasm. The acute disease, however, speedily terminates, and 
positive starvation is all but impossible during its brief continuance. 

STRINGHALT. 

Stringhalt is the imperfect development of that form of disease which, 
in man and in dogs, is called chorea, or St. Vitus's dance. In dogs it 
jerks the whole body, even to the face. The lower jaw will continue 
moving and the eye twitching, while the animal is prostrate and asleep. 
In the horse, however, it is seen only in the hind extremities. In the 
dog it will continue during progression, sometimes shaking the creature 
from its balance, and it often terminates in death. In the horse it is 
never fatal; and, save when about to start, is seldom to be detected. 
Then it causes the hind limbs to be quickly raised in succession. The 
movement is rapid, full of energy, and entirely involuntary. These 

3 



34 



STRINGHALT. 



motions over, the horse proceeds, nor is the symptom usually witnessed 
again till the animal has once more to start ; although a few exceptional 
cases are on record where stringhalt was perceptible at every step. 



i:'^:^V ^TABL 







A HORSE HAVIITO STRINGHALT MUST MAKE SEVERAL INVOLUNTARY M0TEMENT8 WITH THE HIND LEGS 
BEFORE IT CAN PROGRESS. 



Guilford, the racer, exhibited the disease in its worst form. In that 
animal, stringhalt was present in such severity as prevented the signal 
being obeyed before the several eccentric movements had been performed. 
The horse was esteemed good for its purposes ; but the ground lost at 
starting gave away its chances, and it was consequently sold. From the 
pampered stable of the race-horse, it descended rapidly through various 
grades until the creature came to be harnessed to a London omnibus. 
While in that position, the disease was so aggravated that the pastern 
used to hit violently against the belly, till the hair of both was partially 
removed by the repeated blows. The Society for the Prevention of 
Cruelty then purchased the miserable carcass for three pounds, and had 
the life and the suffering extinguished. 

The body was given to the Royal Veterinary College for dissection. 
Professor Spooner relates that he found blood effused on the sheath of 
the sacro-sciatic nerve. This, however, must have been an accident pro- 
duced by the death struggle: that nerve moves the flexor muscles. 
Stringhalt is the disease of the extensor muscles only; therefore, the 



STRINGHALT. 35 

condition of the nerve alluded to by Professor Spooner could in no way 
influence the motions of the limb, Messrs. Percivall and Goodwin both 
appeal to instances, where, in animals afiected with stringhalt, pressure 
existed upon the posterior portion of the spinal column. The last ob- 
servation accords much more with the writer's notions of cause and 
eflfect. 

Nevertheless, the inexperienced reader may ask, how can the posterior 
portion of the horse's spinal column become affected ? Of all the ver- 
tebrae, those of the lumbar region are endowed with the greatest motion, 
and consequently are the most exposed to injury. The uses to which 
man puts the animal are not so very gentle but a delicate structure, 
however deeply seated, might be hurt. However, grant all these are 
hai-mless, which is indeed to allow a great deal to pass, the stables are 
enough to provoke stringhalt in half the horses now resident in London. 
Has the intelligent reader visited these places ? He knows the holes in 
which poor humanity is obliged to stive. Well, any place not good 
enough for a man to live in is esteemed luxurious lodging for a horse. 
Many of the places are undrained ; frequently have light or air admitted 
only by the doorway, and the stalls are seldom more than four feet wide. 
The wretched captives cannot turn their bodies round in the allotted 
space. A horse being in, when wanted abroad, must be backed into the 
gangway, and thus made to "face about." It is not creditable to human 
nature when we perceive its most valuable and willing servant is be- 
grudged the space in which its useful body rests. The labor of the day 
should at least earn for the horse a sufficient bed. 

The exhaustion of the toil — for man has nicely calculated the work a 
horse can perform, and generally exacts the quotum to the full — has 
merited the night's repose, which shall fit for the morrow's fatigue ; but 
man is most particular in all that concerns the quadruped. He has 
reckoned up the food it may eat, the water it may drink, the space it 
may occupy; the keep, the keeper, the lodging, and the very harness 
that fastens it to the load, — all are precisely calculated. There is no 
law to interpose between man and horse, even should the estimate be run 
"too fine." Against sore shoulders there is some enactment, which is 
only enforced through a constable specially retained by a private associ- 
ation. No clause teaches man his duty toward his inferiors. The lower 
animals have no protection against the exhausting labor and inadequate 
provision that maims a body or wastes a life. 

The servant, observing the master to be without feeling, apes his 
better.. A bad example always finds plenty of imitators. The horse 
may be wanted in a hurry; the groom commands it to "come round." 
It is too much trouble to back the animal as usual; the master is in 



86 



PARTIAL PARALYSIS. 



haste and the servant has no time to lose. The poor animal endeavors 
to obey ; it squeezes and twists its body : the head is seized, a blow is 
given, and the difficulty is vanquished. But at what a cost I One bone 
of the spine has been injured. Bone is slow in its developments. !Nio 
immediate consequence results ; but months afterward, the injured place 
throws out a spicula of bone, no larger than a needle's point, perhaps, 
but it presses upon the spinal marrow, and lasting stringhalt is the 
effect. 

Of course no drug can reach the part affected; no cunning prepara- 
tion can remove even a needle's point from the interior of the spinal 
canal. The stinghalt, once exhibited, is beyond cure, and never disap- 
pears but with the life. However, it mostly affects high-spirited, nerv- 
ous horses, and not being generally observable during progression, some 
of the quadrupeds thus diseased sell for large sums. 



PARTIAL PARALYSIS. 



Paralysis, in the horse, save when it appears toward the termination 
of violent disorders, is never more than partial. It locates itself in the 




THE UNSTEADY WALK OP A HORSE WHEN SUFFERING UNDER PARTIAL PARALYSIS OF THE HIND LEGS. 

hind limbs, and, though it does not destroy all motion, yet it destroys all 
strength or utility. The power to move with speed is entirely lost, nor 
is the a.bility to progress at a slower pace by any means assured. One 



PARTIAL PARALYSIS. 37 

hind foot is perpetually getting in the way of the other, and constantly 
threatening to throw the animal down, whose walk already is rolling or 
nnsteady. « 

This affection is the property of matured animals ; so rarely as to be 
exceptional is it to be seen attacking colts. Fast trotters, omnibus 
horses, hunters, and creatures subjected to extreme exertion, are most 
liable to it. It creeps on insidiously. At first the pace is as fast as 
ever ; but something is suspected wrong in the manner of going. After 
a time the creature is brought to a veterinary surgeon as a lame horse. 
The suspicions are then destroyed and the real malady is announced. 

The decay of the more showy powers seems to bring forward the 
gentler qualities of the horse's nature. The animal, which once was 
dangerous, loses all its dreaded attributes : with paralysis, it becomes 
meek or tame, as though the big life felt its great affliction and sought 
to compensate, by amiability, for the trouble it necessarily gave, or, in 
other words, that the animal was mildly pleading for existence. No 
doubt much of such a sentiment, if not all, resides in the mind of the 
spectator, the animal only being subdued by sickness. Still, it is very 
sad to contemplate the horse, which once could outstrip the sparrow in 
its flight, reduced to a pace which the tortoise might leave behind ; to 
behold the beast, once powerful and proud of its strength, humbled to a 
feebleness which the push of any child might overthrow. It is more 
sorrowful, when we think its hurt was received from him to whom its 
welfare was intrusted ; that its injury was the consequence of an over- 
anxiety to please and to obey. It may be well doubted whether, when 
man was given dominion over the beasts of the field, he was invested 
with an absolute authority over God's creatures, which had no moral 
duties nor obligations attached to it. At all events, it would be difficult 
to find an object more suggestive of pity, or better calculated to excite 
our inward reflections, than a horse suffering under partial paralysis. 

Paralysis is generally past all cure ; occasionally, however, it admits 
of relief. It is an eccentric disorder, and it is difficult to say, positively, 
what medicine will be of use. The horse, however, during paralysis, 
should enjoy absolute rest. In its disabled state, a little walk is as 
great an exertion as once yvas a breathing gallop ; and it was over- 
exercise which induced the disorder. The animal should receive only 
strengthening physic and the most nourishing of food. The following 
ball should be administered, night and morning : — 

Strychnia, half a grain, gradually, or in six weeks to be worked up 
to a grain and a half ; iodide of iron, one grain ; quassia powder and 
treacle, a sufficiency : to be given night and morning. 

The grooming should be persevered with, the animal being carefully 



38 • GUTTA SEllfcNA. 

dressed twice each day, and the process ending by, brushing the quarters 
thoroughly with a new birch broom. The bed should be ample; the 
box should be paddec^and a warm cloth always kept over the loins. A 
piece of wet flannel, covered with a rug, placed over the lumbar region, 
has on occasions induced a return of warmth. The bowels should be 
regulated, if possible, with mashes and green meat ; but, when costive- 
ness exists, a pint of oil is to be preferred to even three drachms of aloes. 
The one exhausts, the other nurtures as well as relaxes the body. 

The hope of amendment must, however, be indulged with caution. 
The disease is of chronic growth, and therefore will be of long duration. 
At all events, it is not one horse in four which recovers from an attack 
of partial paralysis; and not one in tw.enty that is afterward fit for its 
former uses. 

GUTTA SERENA. 

Gutta Serena is fixed dilatation of the pupillary opening, owing to 
paralysis of the optic nerve ; the afi"ection is, consequently, accompanied 
by permanent blindness. 

The causes of this malady are blows upon the head, quick driving, 
excessive hemorrhage, stomach staggers, unwholesome stables, poor 
food, exhausting labor, or anythirfg which may decidedly undermine 
the constitution. 

The majority of these causes are inflicted by man, the remainder are 
within his control. Any person has but to reflect how very precious 
eyesight is to mankind. Having settled that point, he has only to con- 
jecture how much more dear it must be to a creature forbid to enjoy the 
pleasures of conversation. To take away sight, js to deprive the animal 
of a faculty with which it is endowed to perfection, in some measure to 
compensate for the absence of reason and the deficiency of speech. A 
horse can see farther than its master. The human eye is, frequently, 
dormant, when the thought is active : the healthy, equine eye never 
rests. .The creature sleeps so lightly that very seldom is it caught 
napping. We may imagine, therefore, the gratification bestowed by an 
organ so constantly employed. To blind a horse, is to deprive a 
breathing body of half its life's pleasure. It is more, when we donsider 
the natural disposition of the quadruped : it is to deprive timidity of its 
watchfulness, fear of its protection. It is even yet more, when we think 
upon the habits of the horse — its spirits, its pleasure, its joy — all are 
expressed by means of a gallop. But what speed can the horse indulge 
in, when cruelty has taken away the power to guide with rapidity ? To 
destroy the horse's sight, is to condemn a creature to live on, but to 
take from life the gayety of existence. 



GUTTA SERENA. 



39 



The eye recently afflicted with gutta serena, or rather the eyes, (for 
this deprivation commonly affects both orbs,) is, to the uninformed 
inspection, perfect. The internal structures are in their proper places, 
and the pupil is beautifully dilated. A 
very little instruction, however, enables the 
spectator to distinguish between fixedness 
and dilatation, A trifle more tuition will 
point out that the pupil is not so dark as 
in the organ of the healthy animal : that it 
has an opaque milky cast, accompanied very 
frequently with a bright light-green shining 
through it, as though a piece of tinsel were 
within the posterior chamber. After gain- 
ing such information, probably the notion 
before expressed about beauty may be 
changed. Moat things are most beautiful as nature formed them, and 
no little expression resides in the ever-changing dimension of the 
pupillary opening. 




AN EYE AFFECTED 'WITH GUTTA SERENA. 




THE MODE IN WHICH A HORSE, WHEN QUITE BLIND, PROGRESSES. 

The symptoms of blindness are equally pathetic and characteristic. 
The nostrils are constantly at work and the ears perpetually in motion — 
life is endeavoring, by exercising other senses, to compensate for the one 
lost. Then, the movements are peculiar. A blind man commonly 



40 



GUTTA SERENA. 



shuffles along, endeavoring "to feel" his way. The horny hoof lacks 
the human faculty, but the horse endeavors to surmount objects by step- 
ping high. A blind man turns the sightless face heavenw^ard ; the 
animal, likewise, raises its head, as it were, to expose its sightless orbs 
to its Creator. There is another strange peculiarity also, exemplified 
by the blind horse. The sightless quadruped, contrary to the majority 
of its species, generally carries a rough coat in summer and a blooming 
coat in winter. 

Now, a high stepper, a well-carried head, a Ijvely ear, and a blooming 
coat, are great points in a horse, especially about London, and with 
gentlemen of little information. To prevent imposition, always place 
the horse in a full light. Should the pupils continue large, have the 
horse put into a dark house. A quarter of an hour afterward, take a 
candle, and by its light regard the eye. If the pupil is still dilated, 
hold the candle near to the eye. The iris will not contract quickly upon 
artificial light, but in five minutes it ought to move. However, suppose 

you imagine it to remain stationary; then, 
placing yourself by the head, have the 
horse led out into sunshine. If it exhibit 
no change to mark the passage from dark- 
ness to daylight you may certainly con- 
clude the optic nerve is paralyzed. 

There are other tests, but these are not 
satisfactory ; such as covering the eye with 
the hand or a hat. The hand is semi- 
transparent, and so can only induce par- 
tial darkness; the hat does not fit the 
inequalities of the horse's countenance, 
therefore it is useless. Of the same nature 
is aiming pretended blows at, or moving 
the hand before, the suspected eye. The 
other senses, by constant exercise, become 
so very acute during loss of sight, that 
winking is no proof of vision : the lid may 
move, and, nevertheless, the horse be stone 
blind. 

Nothing can be done for paralysis of 
the optic nerve. The injury once es- 
tablished, its effects are lasting. Butchers 
and other people, who foolishly pride 
themselves upon their fast trotting steeds, and whose natures are not 
unpleasantly susceptible, often induce the affection. It lessens the value 




THE BASE OP THE BRAIN. 

a. The point of junction between the 
right and left optic nerves. 

o 6. The liealthy optic nerve, of a white 
color, originating on the left side and pro- 
ceeding to the left eye. 

c c. The paralyzed or unhealthy optic 
nerve, diminished in size and darker in 
color. It ran to the right eye; b\it its 
diseased condition can be clearly traced to 
originate from the left side of the brain. 



GUTTA SERENA. 41 

of the horse, dooms it to a lower class of proprietors, aud takes from 
the creature's life much of the pleasure which otherwise might lighten 
the animal's existence. 

After death, an anatomical peculiarity is observed. The optic nerves, 
subsequent to leaving the brain, unite and exchange fibers. Neither 
nerve pursues an absolute course; yet, consequent on decease, if the 
right eye were blind from gutta serena, the left nerve, or the nerve 
originating from the left side of the brain, alone is affected : the disease 
seems confined to that part. The opposite nerve is perfectly white and 
healthy; but the one affected with paralysis is of a yellowish color, 
softer nature,, and sensibly diminished in bulk. So, if blindness afflict 
both eyes, both optic nerves are then of diminished size and of a yel- 
lowish hue. 



CHAPTER II. 

THE EYES — THEIR ACCIDENTS AND THEIR DISEASES. 



SIMPLE OPHTHALMIA. 

The following engraving illustrates some of the accidents which 
attend upon injured sight in the horse. The eyes are probably more 
important to the safety and pleasure of the master than any other por- 
tion of the quadruped's frame. Let the smallest impediment exist, and 




SOME OF THE RESULTS OF IMPERFECT VISION. 



there is no telling in what way it may operate. Certain horses are most 
affected by near objects; others exhibit alarm only when bodies are 
approaching them ; another class of creatures will look upon most for- 
ward sights with indifference, but will invariably be horror-struck when- 
ever the view is extensive ; while a fourth group will shy violently with- 
out mortal vision being able to recognize any cause for terror. In every 
case, the dread excited overmasters all other feelings. The presence of 
extreme fear releases the horse from the dominion of its proprietor; its 
movements are sudden, jerking, and eccentric; the animal has lost all 
self-control, and there is no saying in what direction it may move or 
what it may attempt to do. It is regardless of its own life, therefore 
(42) 



SIMPLE OPHTHALMIA. 43 

it is careless about the welfare of others, and he is very fortunate who 
possesses such a servant and escapes without accident. 

There is no cure for. a disposition depending upon a change of struc- 
ture; but there may be a preventive. Would all horse-owners preserve 
their tempers and forbear from slashing a horse over the head, they 
would be vast gainers in a pecuniary sense, and would certainly escape 
very many of those ills now commonly attendant upo» equestrian exer- 
cises. 

Whoever has a shying horse had better discard the creature from all 
private uses. Send the animal to some work in which the habit will be 
accompanied with less danger, or never allow the quadruped to quit the 
stable without having the sight securely blinded. Such things are 
necessary ; but the feeling man, when he considers how much the exer- 
cise of the senses sweeten mere animal existence, will sigh over the order 
which compels him to deprive a horse of that which the common sense 
of the English has denominated "precious sight." 

Simple ophthalmia is inflammation of the fine membrane which covers 
the horse's eye ; it reaches no deeper, it does not affect the internal 
structures of the organ, and it is not so much to be dreaded in its 
immediate as in its after consequences. It is caused by accident and 
by the violence of man. 

As the reader has walked the streets, he surely must have seen men 
indulge their temper by cutting a horse over the head with the whip. 
The animal capers about and shakes the ears, endeavoring to avoid the 
chastisement; the man becomes more enraged; the reins are pulled 
tight, while the master stands up in the gig, and for minutes continues 
chastising a creature that is bound to the shafts and comparatively at 
his mercy. Were the horse, thus tortured, to run away, the person 
who abused his authority would have provoked a severe retribution; 
but the animal has no such intention. The fault may be far more 
imaginary than real. The timidity of the horse prevents it from will- 
fully inviting the dreaded lash ; possibly the offense resides more with 
the individual invested with trust over life than with the creature that 
patiently submits to most unworthy control. At all events, the thong 
curls about the face ; now it cuts the lips, in which the sense of touch 
resides ; the pain is maddening, the horse capers and shakes its head, 
striving to avoid a repetition of the torture. The next slash, however, 
turns sharply round the blinkers and lights upon the eye ; the horse is 
held tight, the man feels happy, he has discovered a tender place ; the 
whip* is plied again and again, always falling true. It hits the mark. 
When the animal reaches home, the lid of one eye is closed, and many 
tears have wetted the cheek, while scars remain after the immediate 



44 SIMPLE OPHTHALMIA. 

consequences have passed; the vision is interfered with, and timidity 
becomes an inveterate shyer. 

Also, from the manner in which the rack is placed, a hay-seed fre- 
quently falls into the ej'^e. The hay is always kept in the loft above the 
stables, and a narrow trap-door opens into the rack. This is very con- 
venient for the groom; how could any architect be so very "maudlin" 
as to design a stadble with the slightest consideration for a horse ? . At 
every mouthful the head has to be raised and the provender pulled out; 
probably, human ingenuity could not invent a machine more likely to be 
attended with injury. The head uplifted, the eye open to direct the bite, 
the dry grass shaken to pull out the morsel, of course the loose parti- 
cles are dislodged, and what wonder if one of the hay-seeds should fall 
into the open eye ? This body is small, dry, harsh, and sharp ; moved 
about by the motion of the lid it commits fearful ravages upon the tender 
organ to which it has found adnjittance, and simple ophthalmia is the 
consequence. 

Man is too proud to learn from nature, or he might observe horses 
always depress their heads when in the field. The common parent, with 
care for all her children's comfort, makes the animal stoop to crop the 
herbage; man causes the creature to upraise and outstretch the neck to 
reach its sustenance. However, the horse is not always free from acci- 
dents when it quits the stall. Carters often amuse the weary way by 
striking what they term a "stubborn and foolish horse" over the head 
with the butt end of the whip. This action, though most irritating to 
witness, is generally less important in its results than any of the injuries 
previously remarked upon. The lid shields the eye; consequently, a 
largely swollen covering and a slightly injured membrane are the conse- 
quences. 

Many brutal drivers have " a happy nack " of kicking at the head of 
a fallen animal to make it rise. This act may extinguish vision or pro- 
voke simple ophthalmia ; but, it is hoped, all such are exceptional cases, 
therefore these are willingly not remarked upon. 

Frequently horses try to while away the long hours of confinement 
by playing with one another; one horse will lean its head over the divi- 
sion to the stalls and for hours together lick its fellow prisoner's neck. 
Sometimes a day's rest begets high spirits, and the animals indulge in a 
more boisterous amusement ; they bite and snap at one another's heads. 
Domestication has, however, disabled the creature to nicely measure dis- 
tances ; standing all day long with the nose close to a glaring white wall 
has probably impaired the vision. One horse projects its teeth too' far; 
they simply graze the eye ; but a small flap of membrane is the conse- 
quence. The bite of an enraged horse is fearful ; and were not the 



SIMPLE OPHTHALMIA. 



45 




A READY MODE OP BLINDING A HORSE, AND 
OF APPLYING! A LOTION TO TUE EYES IN 
SIMPLE OPHTHALMIA. 



animal gently inclined, more than a minute portion of fine skin would 
testify its intention. Simple ophthalmia, accompanied with a small 
abscess upon the cornea, is the result. 

The treatment of simple ophthalmia is somewhat homely. Put on a 
bridle, or a leather head-stall ; or a halter will answer the purpose ; 
fasten a cord loosely to either side, so 
that it may cross the forehead ; on this 
line suspend a cloth several times dou- 
bled ; but, mind it is large enough to 
cover both eyes, for the visual organs are 
so sympathetic, that when one is in- 
flamed the other is very likely to exhibit 
disease. Keep the cloth continually 
dripping with the following lotion. 

Fill a two-quart saucepan with poppy 
heads, cover these with water; boil, till 
the poppy heads are quite soft ; pour off" the 
liquor, strain, filter, and, adding thereto 
one ounce of tincture of arnica, the preparation, when cold, is fit for use. 

On the first morning, an inspection should be gently attempted ; for 
the eye is generally so very tender, and the animal so resistful, that no 
examination at that time is generally satisfactory. On the following 
day, however, the lotion will have ij^duced the swelling, mitigated the 
agony, and have enabled the horse to be more obedient ; then make 
another and a thorough examination. The skin upon the eye will be 
white and opaque, the lining of the lid inflamed, while numerous tears 
will pour down the cheek according to the severity of the injury. Re- 
move any substance found underneath the 
eyelid. If the hay-seed or sharp particle 
shaken from the provender stick firmly into 
the outer covering of the eye, grasp it tightly 
with a pair of forceps, and endeavor to pull 
it out. Should it be fixed too deeply for any 
ordinary force to move it, do not exert all your 
power, but take a sharp-pointed knife, which 
is better than a lancet, because more under 
command, and placing its tip below the ob- 
stacle, with a motion, of the wrist oblige it 
to quit its situation or to come forth between the ends of the forceps. 

Should a flap of the cornea be left by a bite, probably pus will be 
secreted beneath it ; the place must be watched till the local inflamma- 
tion has subsided, and a spot of yellow, opaque matter can be detected 




AN EYE RECENTLY AFFECTED TnTH 
SIMPLE OPHTHALMIA. 



46 SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA. 

under the transparent membrane. With a slight incision the pus must 
be released and the eye bathed with a lotion' composed of water and 
chloride of zinc, one grain to the ounce. 

Other cases will rather be known by the variety of marks left behind 
than by any difference in their necessary treatment. A lotion is gen- 
erally everything required; however, should the inflammation become 
excessive, it may be necessary to open the eye-vein or the vessel which, 
journeying toward its larger trunk, runs directly beneath and from the 
eye. When this prominent and visible vein is pierced, it frequently, 
although distended, will not bleed. Then place some favorite food upon 
the ground, — the bending of the head and the movement of the jaw will 
cause the current to flow forth freely, 

It is among the most beautiful attributes of the horse, that though so 
very timid, it never suspects nor can it understand actual injury. Thus, 
the flowing of its own blood does not affect it; it is otherwise with other 
animals not more intelligent. If a dog or cat be hurt, no delicacy can 
tempt the creature to feed. The horse, when in battle deprived of its 
limb, is so accustomed to restraint and so unsuspicious of harm, that it 
has been found, after the strife was ended, maimed, and yet cropping the 
herbage about it. The generous beast, when domesticated, retains its 
gentle disposition, and soon forgets to recognize danger; it becomes 
attached to its superior, and though its treatment be coarse and its 
usage brutal, it can pardon all. 

The consequences of simple ophthalmia are little, white, opaque spots 
upon the membrane. Streaks of the same sort are occasionally left upon 
the organ by the abuse of the whip ; the amount 
of blemish, of course, will be decided by the 
original injury. Never purchase an animal thus 
disfigiired ; better buy a blind horse. The opaque 
places prevent many rays of light from reaching 
the optic nerve; the sight is irreparably im- 
paired ; the horse sees imperfectly ; it may be- 
hold the head of a man, while the opaque scar 
HORSE'S EYE INJURED BY THE couccals tlic body. Timidity takes alarm at the 

LASU. 

apparently spectral object. It has no reason to 
explain, and it wants intelligence to understand. The poor abused quad- 
ruped becomes a dangerous shyer. 

SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA. 
Before we touch upon the subject which forms the heading to thi.s 
article, we wish to establish one proposition, because it will smooth the 
way to an understanding between author and reader. 




SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA. 



4T 



Man cannot make a property of life ; he has no power over its con- 
tinuance ; it may cease to-morrow without his permission and against 
his wishes ; it is removed from and independent of his control. Man 
can have nothing like a property in that which is altogether above his 
sway. lie then, obviously, has no right to enslave any living creature, 
and take no care of the existence which he has deprived of liberty to 
provide for itself. When he captures a wild animal and retains it in 
captivity, he entails upon himself the duty of providing for its wants, 
and becomes answerable for its welfare. He violently usui*ps nature's 
province — obviously, he adopts nature's obligations ; if he rebel against 
such a moral contract and persist in viewing dominion as absolute 
authority, as something which invests him Avith power to feed or starve 
at his pleasure, house or turn into the air according to his will, nature 
opposes such arrogance, and, releasing the life by death, takes the op- 
pressed creature from the tyranny of the oppressor. 

Under some such compact the horse is given to man. The implied, 
not written obligation, may not be acknowledged or understood ; but, 
nevertheless, it exists, and the terms of the bond are rigidly exacted. 
Let us regard this matter in relation to specific ophthalmia. A gentle- 
man possesses five horses ; he builds a stable twenty feet long, twelve 
feet wide, and nine feet high ; into this place he crams the five huge 
lives. We will suppose the place to be good of its kind, to be paved 
with Dutch clinkers and to be perfectly drained ; still each horse stands 
in a stall four feet wide ; in this it has to remain all night and the major 
portion of the day. In this space it has to relieve its body ; the liquid, 
to be sure, may run off by the drain, but it has to fall upon straw, which 
imbibes some, and to flow over bricks, which 
absorb more ; the solid excrement is during the 
day removed by the groom as it falls, but it re- 
mains in an open basket to taint the air of the 
place. We will suppose the horses and their at- 
tendants, occasionally, are the sole inhabitants, 
and the building contains none of those things, 
living and otherwise, which ladies are pleased 
to order should "be carried into the stable." 

Will the sane reader assert that the space is 
large enough for its purposes ? The stable never 
can be sufficiently ventilated : it will smell of 
impurity — of hay, straw, oats, ammonia, and of 
various other things. The air feels hot. Can 
it be wondered at? Ten large lungs have been 
breathing it for weeks and years, during twenty out of every twenty 




THE SPECIES OF ETE WHICH IS 
GENERALLV SUPPOSED TO BE 
MOST LIABLE TO OPHTHALMIA. 



48 SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA. 

four hours. Five huge creatures have been cabined there, living by day, 
sleeping by night, feeding and performing all the other offices of nature. 
Is it astonishing that the air feels and smells close ? Ought we not 
rather to wonder that animal life can exist in such an atmosphere ? The 
chief contamination is ammonia; ammonia will not support vitality. 
The reader has inhaled smelling salts ; those are purified carbonate of 
ammonia ; have these not made the eyes water ? The ammonia of the 
stable affects the eye of the horse ; it also undermines the constitution ; 
but, by constantly entering upon the lungs and stimulating the eyes, it 
causes the constitutional disease to first affect the visual organs ; in 
short, specific ophthalmia is generated. 

Now, to prove the case here stated. In the south of Ireland, where 
poverty prevails, humanity is obliged to shelter itself in strange places, 
and any hole is there esteemed good lodgiiig for a horse. In that part 
of the kingdom ophthalmia affects the majority of animals; it not only 
preys on horses, but it seizes upon mankind ; for the author, a few years 
ago, was much struck by the quantity of blind beggars to be encountered 
in the streets of Cork. Here we have the conclusion of the argument ; 
its moral exemplified and enforced. If animals are foully housed and 
poorly kept, they generate disorders, which at length extend to the 
human race ; therefore he who contends for a better treatment of the 
horse, also indirectly pleads for the immunity of mankind from certain 
diseases. Man cannot hold life as a property, or abuse life without his 
ill deeds by the ordinances of nature recoiling on himself. 

Specific ophthalmia is a constitutional disease affecting the eyes ; it 
has been submitted to all kinds of rude treatment ; no cruelty but has 
been experimented with ; no barbarity but has been resorted to. It has 
been traced to various sources ; its origin has been frequently detected ; 
but the real cause of the disease, to this day, has not been recognized. 
The veterinary surgeon is often sent for to just look at a horse which 

"has got a hay-seed in its eye." This 
mistake is very common, as ophthalmia gen- 
erally breaks forth during the long night 
hours, while the stable is made secure and 
the confined air is foulest. The groom sees 
an animal with a pendant, swollen lid, and 
with a cheek bedewed by copious tears ; he 
can imagine only an accident ; but the medi- 
THE FmsT APPEARANCE OF sPEcinc cal cxamiucr must obev the summons with 

OPHTHALMIA. •' 

an unprejudiced mind, because simple oph- 
thalmia is a mere misfortune, specific ophthalmia is a constitutional 
disorder. 




SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA. 



49 



The veterinary surgeon, firstly, in the groom's convictions, makes a 
grievous mistake. He goes up to the horse on the opposite side to 
the affection ; being there, he takes the pulse, remarks the breathing, 
observes the coat, feels the feet, examines the mouth, and looks at the 
nasal membrane. If simple ophthalmia be present, some of these may 
be altered from long-endured pain ; but if specific ophthalmia exist, 
the general disturbance denotes a constitutional disorder. The pulse is 
hard, the breathing sharp, the coat staring, the feet cold, the mouth 
clammy, and the nasal membrane inflamed or leaden-colored. 

The horse is next ordered round to the stable window, with the dis- 
eased eye toward the light. A pretense 
is then made of forcing the lid open; if 
simple ophthalmia be present, the resist- 
ance is energetic, but not violent. Should 
specific ophthalmia be the affection, the 
horse struggles against the intimation with 
the wildness of timidity, striving to escape 
a terrible torture. The animal is, there- 
upon, brought into some shady corner ; its raising the upper ud op an eye af- 

-, - . .11.1 FECTED WITH SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA. 

fears are allayed, and it permits the lid to 

be raised with little difficulty. Should the eye have been injured by 
an accident, the most prominent part of the ball is likely to be hurt. 
The internal structures are unaffected ; the pupil generally is larger 
than usual, and the iris is unchanged. The haw may be or may not 
be projected ; but the color, form, and aspect of the iris is unaltered. 
During the commencement of specific ophthalmia, the center of the 
cornea may be transparent, but the circumference of the ball is violently 
inflamed; the reason being that a constitutional disorder always first 
attacks the more vascular structures, and, therefore, commences in the 






DIAGRAM OF THE EYE IN SIMPLE OPHTHALMIA. 
THE BARK LINE INDICATES THE EXTENT TO 
WHICH HAW MAT PROTRUDE. 



DIAGRAM OP THE HORSE'S EYE WHEN SUF- 
FERING FROM SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA. 



loose conjunctiva, covering the white of the globe. In specific ophthal- 
mia, the color of the eye has changed to a lighter hue, and the pupillarj 
opening is firmly closed, to prevent the entrance of the dreaded light. 



50 SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA. 

Weakness increases as specific ophthalmia progresses. The attack, 
however, is seldom stationary ; the eye first involved may suddenly become 
clear and healthy, and the opposite organ may exhibit the ravage of the 
disease ; thus, the affection keeps rapidly moving about ; when it sud- 
denly quits both eyes, the inflammation commonly fixes upon some dis- 
tant part of the body, as the lungs or feet. No one can predicate how 
short will be its stay or how long the attack may last ; it has disap- 
peared in a week, it has continued two months. It seldom reaches its 
climax during the first assault. It will occur again and again ; generally 
it ends in the destruction of one or both eyes ; but never, so far as the 
author's knowledge extends, causes gutta serena. Like scrofulous affec- 
tions in the human being, which it greatly resembles, it generally is the 
inheritance of youth ; after maturity or after the eighth year has been 
attained, it is rarely witnessed. 

When this terrible affliction visits a stable, let the proprietor firmly 
oppose all active measures. A shed ought to be procured, cool or shady, 
and screened on every side, excepting on the north. Every hole, how- 
ever minute, should be stopped, because light shines through a small 
opening with a force proportioned to its diminutiveness. The stars and 
candles in the once popular London Diorama were only small holes cut 
in the canvas. 

The eye-vein is then to be opened, and the lid, if much enlarged, 
punctured in several places ; when the bleeding has ceased, a cloth, 
saturated in cold water, is to be put over both eyes. As to other reme- 
dies, they must be regulated by the condition of the animal. Should it 
be poor, oats and beans, ground and scalded ; cut green meat ; gruel 
made of hay-tea, etc., should be given. No dry fodder must be allowed ; 
all the provender must be so soft that mastication may be dispensed with. 
The movement of the jaw, sending blood to the head, is highly injurious 
during an attack of specific ophthalmia. 

Let the following ball be given twice, daily : — 

Powdered colchicum Two drachms. 

Iodide of iron One drachm. 

Calomel One scruple. 

Make into a ball with extract of gentian. 

Observe the teeth while this physic is being taken. The author has 
taken twenty-five grains of calomel daily, for a month, with impunity; 
lately, he was slightly salivated by two grains, when not expecting any 
effect. Mercury, therefore, operates in accordance with the system ; it 
is strong or weak as the body is sickly or robust. 

Should the animal be fat, do not therefore conclude that it is strong ; 



SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA. 51 

obesity is always accompanied with debility. But if the horse be a 
hunter or a racer, in training condition, still give the medicine pre- 
scribed, with soft food, not quite so stimul,ating, and the ball twice daily. 
However, as soon as the medicine begins to take effect, which it will do 
soonest upon the weakly, change it for : — 

Liquor arsenicalis Three ounces. 

Muriated tincture of iron Five ounces. 

Mix, and give half an ounce in a tumbler of water twice daily. 

Do not bother about the bowels ; endeavor to regulate them by mashes 
and with gr^en meat ; if they should not respond, do not resort to more 
active measures. Should the pulse be increased, a scruple of tincture 
of aconite root may be administered every hour, in a wineglass of water; 
should the pain appear to be excessive, the like amount of extract of 
belladonna may be rubbed down in a similar quantity of water, and be 
given at the periods already stated ; only always be content with doing 
one thing at a time. Thus reduce the pulse, for, with the lowering of 
the vascular action, the agony may become less intense; however, so 
long as the beats of the artery are not more in a minute than sixty-five, 
and not very thin or hard, the aconite should be withheld, for during an 
acutely painful disorder the heart must be in some degree excited. 

The grand measure, however, remains to be told. Remove every horse 
from the stable in which the attack occurred; then elevate the roof, 
widen the gangway, and enlarge the stalls; improve the ventilation, 
overlook the drains, lay down new pavement — in fact, reconstruct the 
edifice. It is felt that, in giving these directions, a proposal is offered 
to demolish a building. The author is fully alive to the expense of such 
a transaction ; but one valuable horse will pay for a great deal of bricks 
and mortar. Experience has decided that the most humane way is, in 
the long run, the cheapest method of proceeding. Ophthalmia is a 
teasing and a vexatious disorder. If the owner has no feeling with the 
inhabitants of his homestead, still let him study his own comfort, for it 
is astonishing how very much good stabling adds to the appearance and 
to the happiness of a mansion. 

Specific ophthalmia does not terminate in death ; it usually leaves the 
victim blind in one or both eyes. In England, however, it is mostly 
satisfied with the destruction of one organ; the strength of the other 
becoming, after its depai'ture, considerably improved. At the same 
time, having caused the lids to swell, it leaves them in a wrinkled or a 
puckered state; the remaining eye is likewise somewhat sensitive to 
light. To gain in some measure the shadow of the brow, and to escape 
the full glare of day, the eye is retracted; all the muscles are employed 



52 



SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA. 




AN EYE DISPLVTIM, TIIL RW VGES 
OF SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA. 



to gain this end, but the power of the levator of the upper lid causes 
the eye to assume somewhat of a three-cornered aspect. 

It is always desirable to recognize the animal which may be or may 
have been liable to so fearful an affection. 
One symptom of having experienced an at- 
tack is discovered on the margin of the trans- 
parent cornea. The inflammation extends from 
the circumference to the center. The margin 
I of the transparent ball is generally the last 
place it quits; here it frequently leaves an 
irregular line of opacity altogether different 
to and distinct from the evenly-clouded indica- 
tion of the cornea's junction with the sclerotic, 
which last is natural development. 
Nevertheless, the internal structure best display the ravages of specific 
ophthalmia ; it is upon these the terrible scourge exhausts its strength. 
The eye becomes cloudy; loses its liquid appearance; the black bodies 
attached to the edges of the pupillary opening either fall or seem about 
to leave their natural situation. The pupil becomes turbid, then white ; 
the iris grows light in color, and at last remains stationary, having pre- 
viously been morbidly active. The whiteness of the pupil grows more 
and more confirmed, and every part grows opaque ; by this circumstance, 
the total cataract, arising from specific oph- 
thalmia, is frequently to be challenged. The 
lens, moreover, is often driven, by the force of 
the disease, from its position; it lodges against 
the inner surface of the globe. Yery common 
is a torn or ragged state of the pupil witnessed, 
as was stated, during the intensity of the at- 
tack, for the iris contracts to exclude the light; 
remaining thus for any period, it becomes at- 
tached to the capsule of the lens; when the 
disease mitigates, it often rends its own structure by its efforts to expand. 
Should those efforts prove unavailing, the pupillary opening, as some- 
times happens, is lost forever. 

In the previous description of disorder, no mention has been made of 
the cartilago nictitans, or haw, or third eyelid, as it has been called. 
This thin body is very active, and resides at the inner corner of the eye ; 
of course, in a disease under which the eye is pained by light, the haw 
is protruded to the utmost. In ophthalmia, however, it is covered by 
an inflamed membrane, and though in health its movements are so 
rapid that it may easily escape notice, yet in this disease it lies before 




TERMINATION TO SPECIFIC OPH- 
THALMIA. 



SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA. 53 

the eye, red and swollen ; this substance it was once common for farriers 
to excise, under a foolish notion of removing the cause of the disorder. 

The use of the cartilago nictitans in the healthy eye will now be 
explained. Let the reader inspect any of the illustrations to this article ; 
he will find the outer corner represented as being much higher than the 
inner corner of the eye, where the active little body resides. Under the 
upper lid, near to the outer corner, is situated the lachrymal gland, which 
secretes the water or tears of the eye. 

Suppose any substance "gets into the eye;" being between two layers 
of conjunctiva, it creates much anguish, it provokes constant motion 
of the lid, which in its turn causes the lachrymal gland to pour forth its 
secretion. Liquid flowing over a smooth globe of course gravitates ; 
the substance "in the eye" is thus partly washed and partly pushed 
toward the inner corner. 

Now, the base of the cartilago nictitans rests upon the fat at the back 
of the eye. Pain causes the globe to be retracted by spasmodic jerks; 
adipose matter cannot be compressed, and it is therefore driven forward 
every time the muscles act. The fat carries with it the cartilago nictitans, 
and the edge of the body being very fine and lying close to the globe, 
shovels up any foreign substance that may be within its reach, to place 
it upon the rounded development at the inner corner of the eye. Still 
may the reader inquire, if the cartilago nictitans is covered with con- 
junctival membrane, and the inner corner of the eye is enveloped in the 
same, does not the foreign substance occasion pain to these as it did to 
the globe of the eye ? No ; it was just hinted that conjunctiva is not 
sensitive except two layers of the membrane are together, as the ball 
and the inner surface of the eyelid. The haw, therefore, has no sensa- 
tion upon its external surface, neither has the inner corner of the eye, 
whence all foreign bodies are quickly washed by the overflow of tears. 

Farriers, however, are not an extinct race; many of the fraternity 
still exist, still practice, and are, it is to be feared, very little improved. 
Should one of these gentlemen offer to cure specific ophthalmia, it is 
hoped the owner, after the foregoing explanation, will not allow the 
"haw" to be excised. 

Let every man treat the animals over which he is given authority with 
kindness, as temporary visitors with himself upon earth, and fellow- 
inhabitants of a striving world. Let him look around him ; behold the 
owner of a coveted and highly-prized racer to-day, in a week reduced to 
the possessor of a blind and wretched jade; then ask himself what kind 
of property that is to boast of, which may be deteriorated or taken from 
him without his sanction? Having answered that question, let him 
inquire whether it is better to propitiate the higher being by showing 




54 CATARACT. 

tenderness toward his creatures, or to defy the power which can in an 
instant snatch away his possessions. 

CATARACT. 

Cataract is a white spot within the pupillary opening. The spot may 
be indistinct or conspicuous, — soft, undefined or determined ; it may be 

as small as the point of a needle, or so big 
as to fill the entire space : in short, any in- 
dication of whiteness or opacity upon the 
pupil is regarded as a cataract. 

Cataracts are designated according to the 
parts on which they reside. The lens of the 
eye is contained within a capsule, as an egg 
is within its shell. Any whiteness upon this 
PARTIAL CATARACTS, OR SMALL TVHiTE capsulc Is tcrmcd a capsulai cataract. The 

SPECK WITHIN THE PUPIL OF THE EYE. , „ • t i-i t • 

lens floats m a liquor which surrounds it, as 
the white does the yolk of an egg. Any turbidness in this fluid is termed 
a milky cataract; any speck upon the lens is a lenticular cataract; and 
any little glistening appearance behind the capsule is spoken of as a 
spurious cataract. 

Moreover, there are the osseoTis, the cartilaginous, and the opaque 
cataracts ; but those distinctions rather concern the anatomist than the 
pathologist, as they may be guessed at, yet are not to be distinguished 
with certainty one from another, during life. 

That which more concerns the reader is, to learn the manner, if possi- 
ble, of preventing cataract from disfiguring his horse's eyes. Then will 
the gentleman be kind enough to hold a sheet of white paper close to his 
nose, so that the eyes may see nothing else, for a single half hour. Let 
us suppose the trial has been made. With many people the head has 
become dizzy and the sight indistinct. In some persons singing noises 
are heard and a sensation of sickness has been created. Let the author 
strive to explain this fact. Travelers, passing over the Alps, wear green 
veils, to prevent the strain or excitement which looking upon a mass 
of white snow occasions the -vjisual organs. Any excitement is preju- 
dicial to the eye. Workers at trades dealing in minute objects, often go 
blind, and the use of the miscroscope has frequently to be discontinued. 
But to look continuously upon a white mass is the most harmful of all 
other causes. 

This fact must be considered as established. And what does the 
horse proprietor have done to his stable ? He orders the interior to be 
whitewashed. It looks so clean, he delights to see it ; but do the 
horses — does nature equally enjoy to look upon those walls of " spot- 



CATARACT. 55 

less purity ?" Before those walls, with its head tied to the manger, 
stands the animal through the hours of the day. Close to its nose 
shines the painful whiteness which the master so enjoys. Is it, then, sur- 
prising (seeing how nature for its own wise purposes has connected all 
life) that the equine eye, doomed to perpetual excitement, sometimes 
shows disease ? 

A horse with imperfect vision is a dangerous animal. A small speck 
upon the lens confuses the sight as much as a comparatively large mark 
upon the cornea. To render this clear, let the reader hold a pen close to 
the eye ; it prevents more vision than yonder huge post obstructs. So 
impediments are important, as they near the optic nerve. The lens 
is nearer than the cornea, and therefore any opacity upon the first 
structure is more to be dreaded. 

However, let it be imagined a horse, with an opacity upon the pupil, 
and the sight confused by staring at a white flat mass spread out before 
it, is led forth for its master's use. By the aid of the groom and its own 
recollections, it manages to tread the gangway, and even to reach the 
well-known house door in safety. The owner, an aged gentleman, of the 
highest respectability, comes forth in riding costume. He mounts, and 
throwing the reins upon the neck of the animal, sets his nag into walking 
motion, while he, erect and stately, looks about him and proceeds to pull 
on his gloves. The horse, however, has not gone many steps before the 
cataract and the confused vision, acting conjointly, produce alarm. The 
steed shies and the gentleman loses his seat, being very nearly off. The 
passengers laugh, the proprietor suffers in his temper, but the whip is 
used, and the equestrian is soon out of sight. 

The man and horse proceed some distance ; the gentleman becomes 
much more calm, and the horse recovers sufficient composure to try and 
look around it. The pace now is rather brisk, when the horse thinks, or 
its disabled vision causes it to imagine, it sees some frightful object in the 
distance. The timid animal suddenly wheels round. The rider is not 
prepared for the eccentric motion : he is shot out of the saddle. He falls 
upon his head ; he is picked up and carried home ; but afterward he 
avoids the saddle. 

Never buy the horse with imperfect vision ; never have the interior of 
your stable whitewashed. Then what color is to be employed ? Probably 
blue would absorb too many of the rays of light ; at all events, it seems 
preferable to copy nature. Green is the livery of the fields. In these 
the eyes take no injury, although the horse's head be bent toward the 
grass for the greater number of the hours. Consequently, the writer rec- 
ommends that green wash, which is cheap enough, should be employed, 
instead of the obnoxious white, for the interior of stables. 



56 



CATARACT. 




COMPLETE CATARACT. 



For complete cataract nothing can be done. In man, operation or 
couching may be performed with success ; but the horse can retract the 

eye and protrude the cartilago nictitans. 
Thereby diificulties are created ; but these 
may be overcome. However, when an open- 
ing through the cornea is perfected, the 
spasmodic contraction of the muscles of the 
eye, acting upon the fibrous covering of 
the globe, is apt to drive forth the liquid 
contents of the organ in a jet : this is ir- 
reparable, of course. When so fearful a 
catastrophe does not ensue, still the capsule 
of the lens is always difficult to divide, and the lens itself cannot easily 
be broken down. The lens, therefore, must be abstracted ; but that 
necessitates a large incision, which the previously named probability 
forbids. Displacement is the only resort left ; but the lens, when forced 
from its situation into the posterior or dark cavity, is, by the contraction 
of the muscles, forced up again. The uncertainty of the result, even 
when the operation is successfully performed, is pecuharly disheartening. 
Half lose their eyes in consequence of the attempt ; half the remainder 
are in no way benefited ; to the rest, as these cannot wear spectacles to 
supply the place of the absent lens, of course the pain endured becomes 
useless torture. 

Where partial cataract is feared but cannot be detected, then arti- 
ficially dilate the pupil. Rub down two drachms 
of the extract of belladonna in one ounce of water. 
Have this applied, with friction, to the exterior of 
the lids and about the eye ; mind none gets into 
the eye. The belladonna, acted upon by the secre- 
tions, turns to grit; inflammation is the conse- 
quence, and the clearness of the cornea is im- 
paired. When the belladonna is properly used, 
it dilates the iris and exposes the margin of the 
lens, thus enabling the practitioner to inspect the 
eye in a fall light. 

To tell a spurious cataract, which defect is 
never permanent, first observe the spot. Note 
if it present any metallic appearance, and try 
whether, as the horse's head is moved, it alters in shape, catching irregular 
lights. Then inspect the exterior of the eye ; see if it retain any signs 
of recent injury. Subsequently endeavor, so far as may be possible. 




DIAGRAM ILITJSTRATING THE 
ACTION OF BELLADONNA. 

The inner space represents 
the natural pupil, on which 
no cataract Is to be observed. 
The second space represents 
the pupillary opening as it 
maybe enlarged by the appli- 
cation of belladonna, whereon 
two partial cataracts are to be 
remarked. The other space 
merely represents the dilated 
pupil. 



FUNGOID GROWTHS. 



5Y 




to ascertain tlie exact position occupied by the defect: upon all this 
evidence put together, make up your opinion. 

To distinguish between the different kinds of cataract, apply the bella- 
donna. Next place the horse near a window or 
under a door. Should the sun shine, have the 
animal led into the full glare of day. Look 
steadily into the eye from different points of 
view. Then have the horse's head moved about, 
all the time keeping your sight fixed upon the 
part you are desirous of inspecting. 

Should one spot continue in every position, 
of one bulk, and of one aspect, never becoming 
very narrow and always occupying one place 
throughout the examination, — it is a lenticular 
cataract that is beheld. 

If the whiteness changes appearances, in some 
positions seeming very thin or perceptibly less 
bulky, it is assuredly a capsular cataract which 
is inspected. 

Most cataracts may either be partial or com- 
plete ; but a spurious cataract is always partial, 
never permanent, and invariably caused by vio- 
lence. 

For spurious cataract, treat the injury to the exterior of the eye. 
For other cataracts, do nothing : there is no known medicine of any 
beneficial effect. However, it is well to add, the author's and the gen- 
eral opinion favors the absorption of cataract ; or that these opacities 
may appear and after a time go away without the aid of medicine. 
Nevertheless, to hasten such a process, have the interior of the stable 
colored. However much in favor a clean white wall may be with grooms 
or with the lower order, exercise an informed judgment ; have the wall 
shaded of the tint most pleasant to the inhabitants' sight, and the 
prospect of recovery will by so trivial an outlay be materially facilitated. 



DIAGRAM ILLUSTRATING THE DIF- 
FERENT KINDS OF CATARACT. 

1. A capsular cataract or an 
opacity, situated on the envel- 
ope of the lens. 

2. A lenticular cataract or an 
opacity, within the substance of 
the lens. 

3. A spurious cataract, or a 
particle of lymph adhering to 
the inner surface of the lenti- 
cular capsule. 



FUNGOID TUMORS WITHIN THE SUBSTANCE OF THE EYE. 

These, fortunately, are rare affections. We know of no immediate 
cause for their production. No man can prophesy their appearance. 
The horse, to human judgment, may enjoy the top of health ; may be in 
flesh and full of spirit — altogether blooming. Nevertheless, the action 
of the legs may perceptibly grow higher, and the ears become more 
active. The animal will wait to be urged or guided, when the road is 




58 FUNGOID GROWTHS. 

clear. Also, it may run into obstacles, when the rider does not touch 
the rein. Should anything be left in the gangway of the stable, it is 

certain to be upset, by what the groom terms 
"that clumsy horse." Sometimes it will 
stand for hours together neglecting its food, 
with the head held piteously on one side. 
Occasionally, when at grass, it may be found 
separated from its companions, alone and 
dejected, with the head as before, held on 
one side, while the waters of the eye copi- 
ously bedew the cheek. 

FUNGUS H^MATOIDES, OR CANCEROUS 

GROWTHS WITHIN THE SUBSTANCE At last thc cycs arc cxamincd. The eye- 

OP THE ETE. _ "^ 

ball may be clear, but some brilliant yellow 
substance may be discerned shooting from the base of the interior, and 
the horse is declared contaminated by a cancerous disease. 

All is now explained : the sight is lost ; the horse is blind. There 
are three terrible decisions now left to the master. Is the life to be 
shortened ? The thought shudders at taking existence, when misery 
pleads for consolation. Is the animal to live on and nurture to maturity 
the seeds of a cancerous disease ? The mind shrinks from subjecting any 
creature to the terrible depression and hopeless agony attendant upon 
such disorders. Is an operation to be performed ? Shall the surgeon 
extirpate the eye ? This last proposal seems the worst of all ; nor does 
inquiry improve the prospect. The cancer does not entirely reside within 
the eye ; it is not limited to that part. The taint is in the constitution, 
and the operation can do no more than retard its effect. The eye re- 
moved, the cancerous growth will soon fill the vacant orbit After two 
or several months of dreadful suspense, the life at last will be exacted, 
and the animal, worn out with suffering, will expire. 

Under such circumstances, the writer recommends death, before the 
full violence of the disease is endured. Should, however, the reader 
think differently, and prefer the extirpation of the eyeball, the operation 
will here be described. First, mind the operator has two knives not 
generally kept by veterinary surgeons : one of small size and slightly 
bent to one side; the other larger, and curved to one side till it has 
nearly reached a semicircle. Mind the operator has everything ready 
before he begin : a sharp scalpel, two straight triangular-pointed needles, 
each armed with strong twine ; one curved needle, similarly provided ; 
sponge, water, injecting tube, bellows, lint, — and all things at hand. It 
is necessary the proprietor should see to this, as some men will commence 
an operation upon a mere horse and be obliged to stop in the middle, not 
having brought all the instruments which they may require. 



FUNGOID GROWTHS. 



59 



Cast the horse. Impale both eyelids, each with one of the straight 
needles, and leave the assistant to tie the thread into loops. Through 
these loops the assistant places the fore-finger of each hand, and then 
looks toward his superior. The sign being given, the man pulls the 
ey.elid asunder, while the surgeon rapidly grasps the straight knife and 
describes a circle round the globe, thereby sundering the conjunctival 
membrane. The knife is then changed, the small curved blade being 
taken. The assistant again makes traction, and the knife, being passed 
through the divided conjunctiva, is carried round the eyeball, close to the 
bone ; the levator and depressor muscles are detached by this movement. 
The assistant again relaxes his hold; the operator relinquishing the 
knife, selects the curved needle. 
With this the cornea is transfixed. 
The thread is drawn through and is 
then looped. Into this loop the 
surgeon puts the fore-finger of his 
left hand, and giving the sign once 
more to his assistant, takes hold of 
the large bladed knife. Traction is 
made on all the loops. The curved 
knife is inserted into the orbit, and, 
with a sawing motion, is passed 
round the organ. The posterior 
structures are thereby divided, and 
the eye is drawn forth. 

The operation ought to be over 
in less time than five minutes; but 
speed depends on previous prepara- 
tion. The assistant, during the operation, should rest his hand upon 
the horse's jaw and face ; sad accidents by that means are prevented ; 
but, above all things, he should be cool, doing just what is sufficient and 
no more. 

Some hemorrhage follows the removal of the orb; to stop it, inject 
cold water into the empty socket; should that have no effect, drive a 
current of air from the bellows upon the divided parts ; if this be of no 
avail, softly plug the cavity with lint, bandage the wound to keep in the 
dressing, and leave the issue to nature. 

Such is the undisguised operation for extirpating the horse's eye. 
The reader is confidently asked, whether a few months of miserable 
existence, with the certainty of a fearful death, are not dearly purchased 
at so great a suffering ? 




EXTIRPATION OP THE EYE. 



60 LACERATED EYELID. 



LACERATED EYELID. 



Horses frequently endeavor to amuse the weary hours by a playful 
game with one another ; if accident results, it is not wholly the fault of 
the guileless animals; they are tied to the mangers; they cannot exert 
their activity; otherwise their principal enjoyment resides in the free- 
dom of their heels. And looking at a blank mass of monotonous 
white for many hours may have disabled the sight or have confused the 
judgment. 

The groom being absent, advantage is taken of the event to have a 
romp. The animals snap at one another over the divisions to their 
stalls; often the amusement extends, and four or five heads may be be- 
held united in the sport. Generally, however, the game is confined to 
two players ; but, either way, no injury is meant ; the teeth rattle, but 
they are intended to close upon empty space. However, man has to 
bear the consequences which his errors provoke. That species of con- 
finement to which horses are subjected renders the judgment uncertain 
and the sight untrue. The animal pretends to snap, but, either from 
one head not being removed quick enough or from the other head being 
protruded too far, the teeth catch the eyelid and divide it through the 
center. The injury is not very serious, for had malice impelled the 
assault, much more than an eyelid would have been grasped between 
the jaws. 

In other cases, the groom has driven nails into the wall of the gang- 
way; grooms are fond of seeing the stable decora- 
ted with pendant objects of various kinds. So long 
as the nails are occupied, little danger ensues ; but 
they are apt to be left vacant, and horses are con- 
stantly passing along the gangway. To leave room 
for the servant obliges the animal, very often, to 
keep close to the wall ; the projecting nail catches 
the lid of the eye, and a long rent, commencing upon 

ETELID TORN BT A NAIL. "^ o I a 1. 

the outer side, usually results. 
Such an injury creates great alarm, but it is less serious than it ap- 
pears to be. Let the wound, from whatever cause it springs, be well 
bathed with a soft sponge and cold water; this should be done till the 
bleeding ceases. Afterward, the wound should be let alone for two or 
three hours, that the edges may become partially sticky ; then let there 
be procured a long piece of strong thread, having a needle at each end ; 
the needles should be new, very sharp, and of the stronger sort em- 
ployed by glovers. Let all the punctures be made from withixi out- 




IMPEDIMENT IN THE LACHRYMAL DUCT. 61 

ward, to avoid injuring the eyeball, and a separate needle be employed 
for each divided surface. The thread being brought through, cut off the 
needles, and loop, but do not tie the thread. Proceed with another 
suture, and do not tie that; then with another, observing the same 
directions, and thus, till the eyelid has a sufficient number of sutures. 
Then proceed to draw all to an even tightness — none should be abso- 
lutely tight. The parts ought only to be approximated, not tied firmly 
together ; well, all the sutures being of equal size, they are fastened, and 
the operation is concluded. 

But as the wound begins to heal it is apt to itch, and the horse will 
often rub the eye violently to ease the irritation. To prevent this, 
fasten the animal to the pillar-reins of its stall, and let it remain there 
till the wound has healed; the injury will in a short time close, but the 
sutures should be watched. When the holes begin to enlarge, the thread 
can be snipped. If the punctures be dry, let the divided sutures remain 
till nature shall remove them. If they are moist, and the wound ap- 
pears united, you may try each thread with a pair of forceps; should 
any appear loose, then withdraw it, for after division it can be of no 
use, and may provoke irritation ; however, should it be retained, employ 
no force ; have patience, and it will come forth without man's inter- 
ference. 

Feed liberally, regulate the bowels 
by mashes and green meat; smear the 
wound with oil of tar to dispel the flies ; 
for should the accident happen during the 
warmer months, these pests biting and 
blowing upon so delicate a part as the eye 
may occasion more harm than our best 
efforts can rectify. When the lid is bitten 

•' THE LTD, ■WHEN DIVIDED BY THE TEETH, 

through, the operation is precisely similar ; brought together by means of su- 
the divided edges are to be brought to- 
gether by sutures. To prevent needless repetition, an engraving of the 
bitten lid, after the operation has been performed, is here presented. 



IMPEDIMENT IN THE LACHRYMAL DUCT. 

The lachrymal duct in the horse is a small canal leading from the eye 
to the nostril ; it commences by two very minute openings near the 
terminations of the upper and lower lids, at the inner corner of the 
eye; it emerges upon the dark skin which lines the commencement of 
the horse's nostril, being on the inner side of the internal membrane. 





C2 IMPEDIMENT IN THE LACHRYMAL DUCT. 

Its use is to carry oif the superflux of tears ; hence, with human beings, 
who have a like structure, "much weeping at the theaters provokes loud 
blowing of noses." 

The channel being so minute, any substance getting into it soon be- 
comes swollen with the moisture and closes 
the passage. The tears cannot escape, and 
being secreted, flow upon the cheek. The 
perpetual stream pouring over a part not 
designed for such uses, causes the hair to 
fall off, and thus forms gutters, along which 
the fluid continues to run. The flesh at 
length excoriates, and numerous sores are 
established; the lids swell and become raw 
A HOKSE's HEAD, displaying' OB- ^t thc margins ) thc coujuuctiva reddens, 
sTRucTioN OF THE LACHRYMAL ^ud thc trausparcucy of the cornea is greatly 

lessened by the spread of inflammation. 
The wretched animal in this condition presents a very sentimental 
appearance to a person ignorant of the facts of the case. The swollen 
lid, because of its weight, is permitted to close over the eye, while the 
tears, flowing fast upon the cheek, with the general dejection, gives the 
creature an aspect of weeping over some heavy affliction. 

Like the late William Percivall, whose works on veterinary subjects 
remain a monument to his memory, the author has encountered but a 
single case of this description ; it was in a matured but not a very 
aged animal. The report was, that a year ago it had been attacked 
by influenza ; the lid then enlarged, and the near cheek had been wet 
ever since. 

Referring to the pages of Percivall's "Hippopathology," the author 
procured a thin, elastic probe, about twelve inches long ; the horse being 
cast, and an assistant holding the upper lid, the probe was introduced at 
the inner corner of the eye, by the lower opening to the duct ; the en- 
trance was easy enough, but the passage was soon obstructed ; then the 
probe was inserted at the opening of the duct within the nostril. The 
way in this direction was longer, but the end came at last, without any 
good being effected. Next, a syringe being charged, the fine point was 
introduced up the nasal termination of the duct, the power of the jet 
effectually removing every impediment ; the water streamed through the 
upper openings, and the horse was sent home cured. 

The writer saw the animal six months subsequent to the operation ; it 
was apparently in excellent health, and obviously in amended condition. 
The owner said the horse soon got well after it reached home 5 but, 



IMPEDIMENT IN THE LACHRYMAL DUCT. 63 

being pressed to say how great a duration "soon" represented, be re- 
joined "about six weeks, perhaps.''^ 

Three months afterward, however, the horse was once" more brought 
with "watery eye," and again operation was successful. The proprie- 
tor then received back and soon sold the creature, which being past the 
age when horses are most valuable, seemed likely to become an expen- 
sive retainer. 



CHAPTER III. 

THE MOUTH — ITS ACCIDENTS AND ITS DISEASES. 

EXCORIATED ANGLES OF THE MOUTH. 

Let no man punisli a horse for want of obedience ; the sole use of the 
creature and its only delight is to obey. Let no person abuse it for 
having a hard mouth, or for not answering to the rein. Man had the 
formation of the mouth, and its condition can be no fault in the pos- 
sessor; the horse's pleasure is the gratification of its master. Observe 
the antics of the nag thoroughly trained and perfectly up to the rider's 
point of jockeyship. Does not every fiber seem to quiver with excess of 
happiness ? There is a tacit understanding between man and horse ; the 
pretty arts and graceful prancings of the animal tell how joyful it is 
made by the conviction that it is sharing man's amusement. But let 
the equestrian dismount, and another, above or below the horse's educa- 
tional point, assume the saddle, that understanding no longer exists. 
The harmony is destroyed ; there is no intelligence between horse and 
man. All the playfulness disappears; the entire aspect of the animal 
is changed, and it sinks to a commonplace "ugly brute." 

The majority >of drivers are very particular about the horse's mouth ; 
yet they all abuse the animal as though it was their desire to destroy 
that which each professes to admire. Every supposed error is punished 
with the lash, but the whip can convey no idea; the lash does not in- 
struct the animal ; beat a horse all day, and it will only be stupid at sun- 
set. All the horse can comprehend from the smart is a desire that the 
pace should be quickened ; that wish it endeavors to comply with. The 
person who guides the vehicle generally becomes fanatic at such perver- 
sity; he begins "jagging" and "sawing" the reins. The iron is vio- 
lently pulled against the angles of the mouth, or rapidly passes from one 
side to the other. Would the owner or driver take the trouble to instruct 
his dumb servant in his wishes, the poor drudge would rejoice to exhibit 
its accomplishments. But no information is communicated by first 
urging and then checking ; the timidity is increased by the one, the 
angles of the mouth are excoriated by the other. 

Ladies' horses invariably have admirable mouths ; ladies generally are 
very poor equestrians, yet they encounter few accidents. Men, who ride 
better, are oftener thrown and hurt. The gentleness of the woman, or 
the sympathy existing between two gentle beings, produces this eflfect 
(64) 



EXCORIATED ANGLES OF THE MOUTH. 



65 



The horse is never dangerous when not alarmed ; the feminine hand pats 
the neck of the steed ; the feminine voice assures the timidity ; the 
whip never slashes; the reins are never converted into instruments 
of torture ; the weight is light and the pace is easy. A perfect under- 




VARIOUS MODES OP FORMINa THAT 'WHICH ALL MEN SPEAK OF 'WTrH ADMIRATION, AS A " GOOD MOUTH." 

standing is soon established between the two, and the rider, notwith- 
standing her weakness, her indifferent jockeyship, and her flapping dress, 
sits the saddle in safety, while the animal increases in value under her care. 

Man certainly does not gain by the contrast ; the male treatment does 
not improve the animal. The horse's memory, like that of most dumb 
cr'eatures, is very tenacious ; the quadruped is not made more steady by 
ill usage ; the sore corners of the mouth oblige the animal to be laid up 
"for a time," and the expense of medical treatment increases the sacri- 
fice consequent upon loss of services. 

Trouble attends the circumstance, at which the favorite groom is sure 
to grumble, even if the master does not receive 
" notice." The food must be prepared ; a few oats 
thrown into the manger, and a little hay forked in- 
to the rack will not now suffice ; all the provender 
must be carefully prepared. At first, good thick 
gruel and hay tea must be the only support. In a 
few days, boiled and mashed roots may be intro- 
duced ; these may be followed by cut roots boiled, 
but not mashed, the whole being succeeded by 
scalded hay with bruised and mashed oats. When all is done however, 

5 




EXCORIATED ANGLES OF THB 
MOUTH. 



66 PARROT-MOUTH. 

the horse's temper is not improved, and its mouth is decidedly injured. 
Such results will vex the temper of any good groom, and yery many it 
will anger to the throwing up of their situations. They "will not get a 
horse into beautiful condition for master only to spoil. " 

When the horse is thus injured, ignore all filthy ointments ; such 
things consist of verdigris, carbonate of zinc, horse turpentine, blue, 
green or white vitriol, mixed up with dirty tallow or rank lard. Now, 
to grease a horse's teeth is not much worse than to tallow its lips ; if 
the former prevent it from feeding, the latter is not calculated to improve 
the appetite. 

Discarding all unguents, have the following lotion prepared : — 

Chloride of zinc Two scruples. 

Water Two pints. 

Essence of aniseed . A sufficiency. 

Pour some of this into a saucer, and, with anything soft, apply the 

lotion to the sore places ; do not rub or scrub ;. do your ministering 

gently ; so the parts are wet, no further good can be accomplished ; use 

this wash after every feeding or watering. In a little while amendment is 

generally perceptible ; where violence has been used, it is impossible to 

foretell the extent of the injury. A superficial slough may be cast off ; 

this process is attended with fetor ; that the lotion will correct, and 

thus add to the comfort of the horse. The cure, however, will possibly 

leave the horse of a lessened value ; where the skin 

, /^^>>.-.,^^ has been destroyed it is never reproduced ; the 

<\M&i£^^^ wound will, therefore, probably blemish, and may 

v'lii^B^^^^^ ^^^^ ^ future purchaser to suspect " all sorts of 

^ ^^^^f% M n things." The horse is certainly deteriorated ; wj^h 

■^^^I^^IP^^ the skin the natural sensibility of the part is lost. 

PERMANENT BLEMISH AND ^ clcatrlx, cousistiug oulv of condensed cellular tis- 

DESTEUCTION OF THE ' o J 

NICE SENSIBILITY OP g^g, fflust form upon the spot; this structure is very 

THE MOUTH. ' r r 7 J 

feebly, if at all, nervous, and when compared to the 
smooth and soft covering of the lips, may be said to be without feeling, 
and is very liable to ulceration. 

PARROT-MOUTH. 

This, strictly speaking, is not a disease ; it is a malformation ; the 
upper incisors, from those of the lower jaw t being sufiiciently de- 
veloped, meet with no opposing members ; they consequently grow very 
long, and from their form are likened to the bill of a parrot. 

This formation is not unsoundness, but it cannot be a recommendation ; 
the horse can only gather up its corn imperfectly ; much falls from the 




LAMPAS. 61 

mouth during mastication. The animal which requires four feeds and a 

half daily to support the condition another maintains upon four feeds, 

must be the more expensive retainer of the two. 

Moreover, it is a virtue in a horse to thoroughly clear 

out the manger ; a healthy animal not only licks out 

corners to catch stray grains, but hunts among the 

straw for any corns that may have fallen. This duty 

the parrot-mouth disables a horse from performing; 

the ffood feeder alone is equal to the work. copied from the au- 

o ^ THOR'S WORK, EN- 

Besides, a rider is always pleased, when sauntering titled "the horse's 

' J i. • o MOUTH," PUBUSHEB 

down the green lanes during the spring of the year, bt messrs. fores, 
to see the horse's neck stretched out to catch a twig 
of the shooting hedge ; this can do no harm ; but it is hard alike upon 
horse and man to always have a tight hold of the rein when the fresh 
scent of the budding thorn tempts the mouth to its enjoyment. And 
yet, in the majority of instances, it would be cruelty to yield and 
permit the parrot-mouth to bite; the under teeth very often rest 
against the palate. No more need be said to caution owners pos- 
sessed of an animal thus afflicted, against a natural indulgence. The 
parrot-jaw is a deformity for the perpetuation of which man is respon- 
sible; dispositions and formations are hereditary. Would the owners 
of stock only exercise some judgment in their selections, this misfortune 
might speedily be eradicated. 

LAMPAS. 

The horse's lot is, indeed, a hard one ; it is not only chastised by the 
master, but it also has to submit to the fancies of the groom. "Lam- 
pas" is an imaginary disease, but it is a 
vast favorite among stable attendants. 
Whenever an animal is "off its feed," the 

' THE LAMPAS IRON. 

servant looks into the mouth, and to his 

own conviction discovers the "lampas." That affection is supposed to 
consist of inflammation, which enlarges the bars of the palate and forces 
them to the level of or a little below the biting edges of the upper 
incisor teeth. 

Would the groom take the trouble to examine the mouths of other 
young horses which "?« .all before them," the "lampas" would be 
ascertained to be a nata^al development; but the ignorant always act 
upon faith, and never proceed on inquiry. Young horses alone are sup- 
posed to be subject to "lampas;" young horses have not finished 
teething till the fifth year. Horses are " broken " during colthood ; 
they are always placed in stables and forced to masticate dry, artificial 



68 



LAMPAS. 



food before all their teeth are cut; shedding the primary molars ia 
especially painful; of course, during such a process, the animal en- 
deavors to feed as little as possible. A refusal to eat is the groom's 
strongest proof that lampas is present. But, putting the teeth on one 
side, would it be surprising if a change of food and a total change of 
habit in a young creature were occasionally attended with temporary 
loss of appetite ? Is " lampas" necessary to account for so very prob- 
able a consequence ? The writer has often tried to explain this to stable 
servants ; but the very ignorant are generally the very prejudiced. 
While the author has been talking, the groom has been smiling ; looking 
most provokingly knowing, and every now and then shaking his head, as 
much as to say, " ah, my lad, you can't gammon me !" 

Young horses are taken from the field to the stable, from juicy grass 
to dry fodder, from natural exercise to constrained stagnation. Is it so 
very astonishing if, under such a total change of life, the digestion be- 
comes sometimes deranged before the system is altogether adapted to its 
new situation ? Is it matter for alarm should the appetite occasionally 
fail ? But grooms, like most of their class, regard eating as the only 
proof of health. They have no confidence in abstinence ; they cannot 
comprehend any loss of appetite ; they love to see the " beards wag- 
ging," and reckon the state of body by the amount of provision con- 
sumed. 

The prejudices of ignorance are subjects for pity ; the slothfulness of 

the better educated merits reproba- 
tion. The groom always gets the 
master's sanction before he takes a 
horse to be cruelly tortured for an 
imaginary disease. Into the hands 
of the proprietor has a Higher 
Power intrusted the life of His 
creature ; and surely there shall be 
demanded a strict account of the 
stewardship. It can be no excuse 
for permitting the living sensation to be abused, that a groom asked and 
the master willingly left his duties to another, Man has no business to 
collect breathing life about him and then to neglect it. Every human 
being who has a servant, a beast or a bird about his homestead, has no 
right to rest content with the assertions of his dependents. For every 
benefit he is bound to confer some kindness. His liberality should tes- 
tify to his superiority ; but he obviously betrays his trust and abuses the 
blessings of Providence when he permits the welfare of the creatures, 
dependent on him, to be controlled by any judgment but his own. 




BURNING FOR LAMPAS. 



INJURIES TO THE JAW. 69 

The author will not describe the mode of firing for lampas. It is 
sufficient here to inform the reader that the operation consists in burning 
away the groom's imaginary prominences upon the palate. The living 
and feeling substance within a sensitive and timid animal's mouth is 
actually consumed by fire. He, however, who plays with such tools as 
red-hot irons cannot say, "thus far shalt thou go." He loses all com- 
mand when the fearful instrument touches the living flesh : the palate 
has been burnt away, and the admirable service performed by the bars, 
that of retaining the food during mastication, destroyed. The bone 
beneath the palate has been injured ; much time and much money have 
been wasted to remedy the consequence of a needless barbarity, and, after 
all, the horse has been left a confirmed "wheezer." The animal's sense 
being confused, and its brain agitated by the agony, the lower jaw has 
closed spasmodically upon the red-hot iron ; and the teeth have seized 
with the tenacity of madness upon the heated metal. 

When the lampas is reported to you, refuse to sanction so terrible a 
remedy ; order the horse a little rest, and cooling or soft food. In short, 
only pursue those measures which the employment of the farrier's cure 
would have rendered imperative, and, in far less time than the groom's 
proposition would have occupied, the horse will be quite well and once 
more fit for service. 

INJURIES TO THE JAW. 

Save when needless severity urges timidity to madness, the horse is 
naturally obedient. This is the instinct of the race. The strong quad- 
ruped delights to labor under the command of the weaker biped. Its 
movements are regulated by him who sits above or behind it. It often 
waits for hours with its head pulled backward, its mouth pained, and its 
eyes blinded. All its learning is attention to the sounds of the human 
voice. It is guided by touches. It submits to the whip when it might 
easily destroy the whipper. It eats, it drinks, it rests only by man's per- 
mission. Yet there are such words as " vice " and " spite " connected 
with the horse ; but there remains to be spoken the word which shall 
fitly charactei*ize the self-sacrificing life of the noble animal. 

Man could not endure such tyranny, nor does the horse, notwith- 
standing its submissive instinct, live under it very long. The majority 
perish before they are eight years old. They are worked to an early 
grave — often they are distorted before the body's growth is completed. 
Is there any other life so serviceable ? Is there any other life which 
reads so sad a moral ? For the time it is allowed to breathe and labor, 
the horse patiently obeys its tyrant. It aids his vanity ; it conforms to 
his pleasure; it devotes strength, will, and life to man's service. 



10 



INJURIES TO THE JAW. 




THE SNAFFLE BEAROG UPON THE 
LOWER JAW. 



Let every owner of a horse treat his slave with gentleness. Above 
all things, let no individual employ the 
reins as instruments of torture. The horse 
will neither be wiser nor better for such a 
mode of punishment. Besides, the man 
may deteriorate his own or another's prop- 
erty. With the bit a jaw has been broken ; 
and with the snaffle the bone has been in- 
jured. An animal with a good neck carries 
the chin near to the chest. The iron of the 
snaffle, therefore, cannot pull against the 
angles of the mouth. It rests upon the 
gums, and because this point is by some 
disputed, the following illustration of the fact is inserted. 

The cruel bit is, however, in general use with carriage horses. 
Fashion delights in a vehicle stopped smartly at a door. The greatest 
noise possible then announces the new arrival. The wheels grate — 
the horses struggle. The coachman pulls hard — the vehicle sways to 
and fro. The footman jumps down and pulls at the bell as though life 
and death depended on a speedy answer to his summons. 

All this is, doubtless, very pleasant, but how does it operate upon the 
poor horses ? These, to be pulled up sud- 
denly, must be thrown upon their haunches 
by the unscrupulous use of the bit. The 
pressure often wounds more than the gums; 
frequently the bone of the lower jaw is 
bruised. The gum then must slough, and a 
portion of bone must be cast off. The ex- 
foliation of bone is a tedious process accom- 
panied with an abominable stench. The 
surgeon must be constantly in attendance ; 
otherwise the gum might close over the ex- 
foliating bone and numerous sinuses might 
be established within the mouth. The ex- 
foliated substance must come away. The abscess, which would announce 
its retention, would be more painful than the open wound, and ultimately 
would turn to a foul and ragged ulcer. Such an injury may occur 
wherever the bit rests, before or behind the tush, and a similar injury, 
though not to the same extent, will result from an unscrupulous use of 
the snaffle. 

Supposing a case of this description is submitted to your notice upon 
the day succeeding its occurrence. No change is anticipated, such as 




THE EFFECTS PRODUCED ON THE 
LOWER JAW BT THE ENERGETIC 
USE OP THE SNAFFLE OR BIT. 

The most forward and smaller 
mark indicates the injury usually 
done by pulling at the snaffle. The 
more backward dark place indi- 
cates the spot where tugging at the 
bit bruises the bone of the lower 
jaw. 



INJURIES TO THE JAW. 



n 




would denote a bruise to otlier structures. The covering to the gums 
is thick and hard, and it will conceal much that may be taking place 
beneath it. If any spot be darker, redder, or whiter in color, — if anj 
place be more sensitive than the adjacent parts, the knife is there in- 
serted till it grate upon the bone. The extent of the necessary incision 
is decided by the efforts made in resistance. A thin fluid may issue 
from the orifice ; but when the knife grates upon the bone, then the 
animal's struggles announce the extent of the bruise. Sound bone may 
be cut, scraped, or even burnt with impunity; but when bruised or 
otherwise diseased, the structure is most acutely sensitive. 

When the wound emits its characteristic odor, a lotion composed of 
chloride of zinc, one scruple ; water, one pint ; ess. of aniseseed a suffi- 
ciency, should be syringed into the openings, several times during the 
day. The lotion, also, has a tendency to heal the sores, which must be 
counteracted by the employment of the knife. 
Occasionally, however wide the incision, it 
may be too small for the cast off bone to 
escape from. The knife again must enlarge 
the orifice, and the forceps be inserted to 
grasp the exfoliated substance. That taken 
away, the lotion is continued and the injury 
left to heal at ISTature's pleasure. 

The late W. Percivall, in his excellent 
work, entitled "Hippopathology," describes horses as sometimes injured 
under the tongue by the port of the bit. An engraving, representing 
such an injury, is given ; but it is hoped no gentleman of the present 
day would employ the severe invention by which alone such a hurt could 
be produced. The consequences may be lasting. The terminations of 
the sublingual ducts are included in the blackness. Were these bruised 
and inflamed, their delicate mouths might be obliterated and hopeless 
fistula be established. 

The bit must be sharply and strongly tugged at before it can harm 
the roof the mouth. Any one who has seen horses pulled up before a 
fashionable mansion must have observed them open 
wide their mouths. They do this to escape the 
wound of the bit. The animals extend their jaws 
to prevent it striking the roof of the mouth. Not- 
withstanding the existing age is more civilized than 
those which preceded it, the bits used at the present 
time can, without any vast display of genius, be 
made to injure the obedient animal, for whose mouth 
such ferocious checks are forged. An injury thus inflicted is sufficiently 



INJURY SOMETIMES ACCOMPLISHED 
WITH THE PORT OP THE BIT. 




THE UPPER JAW INJURED 
BY THE BARBAEOUa USE 
OF THE BIT. 



INJURIES TO THE JAW. 



serious. The bony roof not only supports the bars, but also forms the 
solid floor of the nostrils. As it is not very thick, the greater is the 
danger when it is injured. The wound, because of the unyielding sub- 
stance on which it is inflicted, is more painful than that of the lower jaw. 
It is also for the same reason more severe. 

The last injury demands the same treatment as has already been de- 
scribed, only the remedies are far more difficult to apply. Should the 
entire portion of bone exfoliate and a hole be left behind, the conse- 
quence is not of fatal import. Bone can reproduce itself, though it is 
somewhat eccentric in its growth. So after the opening is closed, the 
surface toward the nostrils may be uneven, and the horse be rendered an 
inveterate wheezer. 

When the animal is once injured, never, for your own safety, after- 
ward employ a bit. If it be ridden or driven, always use a snaffle, and 
use even that most tenderly. The horse has vivid recollections, and man 
is naturally forgetful. When power is entrusted to the oblivious, danger 
is apt to be close at hand. 

The inferior margin of the jaw-bone is liable to harm from the curb 
chain, and some men will have the curb chain tight. Such people are 
commonly very imperious. They shout, and slash, and tug when they 
want obedience from an animal whose delight is to be allowed to please. 
Their meaning is seldom comprehended, and therefore their orders are 
rarely obeyed ; whereas, they would be humbly propitiated, were their 
commands only given as though the animal had no interest to rebel. 
The result of such violence is, from the curb chain being ruthlessly 

jerked, the jaw-bone soon enlarges. A 
portion of the bone having been bruised, 
has to exfoliate ; a foul abscess forms ; 
tumor speedily succeeds to tumor; os- 
seous structure is thrown out and a swell- 
ing is matured, before the enlargement 
heals. 

The treatment of such a case is simi- 
lar to that already directed. Keep the 
wound freely open, to permit the unim- 
peded exit of exfoliated bone. Use the 
lotion, previously directed, liberally and 
constantly. The healing process may then take place without deformity 
being left behind 




TUMOR PROVOKED BT THE ABUSE OF THE 
CUKB CHAIN. 



APHTHA. 73 



APHTHA. 



Nothing proves the sympathy which binds nature more strongly than 
the sameness or similarity of the diseases that affect man and animals. 
Tetanus, pneumonia, enteritis, etc. are so alike as to be the same in the 
human being and in the horse. From the cow was derived the safe- 
guard from the ravages of the small-pox, and the medical profession has, 
by its want of feeling, more than recognized a likeness, linking humanity 
to the dog ; in the motive which alone could prompt abuse of a most 
affectionate animal. 

It is a sad proof of the stubbornness of pride, that a unity, thus en- 
forced by suffering, should be ignored, as though it were an insult to 
the superior. No compact, founded by nature, can be dependent upon 
man's liking. The terms may be laughed at, scorned or denied, but 
these exist. Man is declared in affliction to be the companion of other 
life. When will this ti'uth be acknowledged, and the entire family of 
nature live in one brotherhood ? 

Aphtha is a human disorder as well as an equine disease. It generally 
appears in spring and autumn, being produced by 
heat of body. May not a slight attack of aphtha 
sometimes explain that which the groom intends by ^ii/^'y^^'^ js 

lampas? At all events, aphtha is accompanied by {,'£' ^'^^ ' "" 
dullness and a refusal to feed. Both lips commonly l^^j 
swell as the lethargy increases ; the tongue tumefies, 
becomes decidedly red, and generally hangs out of 
the mouth, partly for the sake of coolness, partly to 
accommodate its enlarged size. Around the mouth 
little lumps break forth, which at first are stony 
hard, and others, though of a larger size, may be aphtha. 

felt upon the tongue. "Vesicles are soon developed 
from these spots, and each contains a small quantity of clear gelatinous 
fluid. The bladders burst ; crusts form ; and by the time these fall off, 
the complaint has disappeared. 

Some good thick gruel and a few boiled roots, which should be re- 
peatedly changed, must constitute the nourishment while the disease 
lasts, or during the period that the mouth is sore. No medicine ; a 
little kindness is now worth a ship load of drugs. When the pimples 
are about to burst, the following may be prepared : — 

Borax Five ounces. 

Boiling water One gallon. 

Honey or treacle Two pints. 

When the mixture has cooled, hold up the horse's head and pour 




Y4 LACERATED TONGUE. 

lialf a pint into the mouth. Half a minute afterward remove the 
hand ; allow the head to fall and the fluid to run out of the lips. This 
mixture should be used several times during the day. Beyond this 
nothing is needed, excepting a cool, loose box, a good bed, body and 
head clothing, with flannel bandages, not too tight, about the legs. Work 
should on no account be sanctioned until the last vestige of the disorder 
has vanished, and its attendant weakness has entirely disappeared. 



LACERATED TONGUE. 

Men who become proprietors of animal life undertake a larger re- 
sponsibility than the generality of horse owners are willing to admit. 
They are answerable for their own conduct toward the dumb existence 
over which they are legally invested with the right of property; they are 
also morally accountable for the conduct of those to whose charge they 
entrust their living possessions. The appearance of those men who con- 
gregate about the stable doors of the rich is not very prepossessing. 
Their looks express cunning far more than goodness. Their long narrow 
heads denote none of that wisdom which alone can comprehend and 
practice kindness for its own sake. Their eyes and actions have a 
quickness at sad variance with the affected repose of their manners. 
Their dress declares a vanity, that is much opposed to the humility in 
which a wise man loves to confide. 

There is nothing about horses which should degrade men; yet it 
cannot be denied, that the vast majority of stable men are rogues. How 
can this be accounted for ? Is it difiicult to understand, when we see 
the unlimited trust put into a groom's hands, and the common abuse of 
confidence by the man who enjoys it? No slave proprietor possesses 
the power with which the groom is invested. It is true, the slave owner 
can lash the flesh he terms his property. However, there is in humanity 
a voice which puts some limit to the ill usage of the negro. The groom 
can beat and beat again, at any time or in any place. No voice can be 
raised in appeal to nature. The groom's charge lives beneath him, and 
day or night is exposed to his tyranny. He may chastise the body and 
steal the food, still, so no human eye detect, the horse will quietly look 
upon the wronger it never can accuse. 

A good man would seek far, before he would repose so large a trust 
in another person. The gentleman generally engages the groom after a 
trivial questioning. His desire is to have a servant entirely corrupt; 
one who asserts a knowledge how to trick animals into health. No 
examination is made into the real character of the applicant. A vast 
confidence is ofi"-hand reposed in an individual who may be without a 



LACERATED TONGUE. 



76 



single moral attribute. Who deserves blame for such an abuse of re- 
sponsibility ? He who has been educated into knowingness, and, having 
become thoroughly degraded, esteems himself fully qualified for the situa- 
tion he demands to fill, or he who, having the benefit of education, and 
being blessed with leisure for self-inquiry, shirks his duty and transfers 
his authority to unworthy hands ? 

Every groom fancies he knows how to compound something he calls a 
condition ball, — that is, a certain mixture of drugs, which shall bring a 
living body suddenly into "tip-top" health. A bevy of companions are 
invited to see "Jim give a ball." They duly arrive, and part of the 
horse's tongue is speedily made to protrude from the mouth, this portion 
being firmly held by "Jim's" free hand. The condition ball is in "Jim's" 




BTICKISG TO A HORSE. 



other hand, and the exhibition consists in the marvelous adroitness with 
which the ball can be introduced between the animal's jaws. The horse 
soon sympathizes with the excitement that surrounds it. Jim, "quick 
as lightning," makes a thrust with the ball, whereupon the startled 
animal raises the head and retreats. "Stick to him, Jiml" "stick to 
him !" shout the visitors. Jim does stick to him until his hand is covered 
with blood, or, without quitting its gripe, suddenly loses the resistance, 
which constituted its hold. Should it be the former, the frcenum of the 
tongue is ruptured, and a wetted sponge soon clears the hand of the 
groom as well as the mouth of the horse. A general curse and a kick 
under the belly of the rebellious steed end the amusements for one day. 
Should it be the latter, Jim finds the larger portion of the quadruped's 
tongue left in his hand. This is an awful accident. The blood is wiped 
off, and the groom next morning goes to his master with, " Please, sir, 
see what 'Fugleman' has done in his sleep !" 



7G LACERATED TONGUE. 

A farmer engages a pretty-looking stable boy. .The young scamp is 
sufficiently a groom to glory in nothing so much as deception. The 
farmer, however, takes this pretty boy to the fair, where an additional 
horse is purchased. With the new "dobbin" the boy is entrusted, being 
cautioned to lead it gently home. With numerous protestations boy and 
horse depart, but have barely reached the suburbs before the knowing 
youngster stops "dobbin," and, twisting the halter in " a chaw," leads the 
animal to the nearest gate, where the lad climbs upon its back. 

"A chaw" is the slang short phrase for something to chew. This is 
made by twisting the halter into the animal's mouth so as to encircle the 
jaw. In this position the rope is thought by some knowing people to 
answer the purposes of a bridle. To this rope the boy hangs, rolling to 
either side; now, nearly off — and now, jerked from his seat, as "dobbin," 
after repeated urgings, starts off into the lazy pretense at a trot. 

Anything inserted into a horse's mouth provokes the curiosity of the 
animal. It is felt and poked about with the tongue, till at last the 
lingual organ is, by the exercise of much ingenuity, inserted beneath the 
obstacle. In this state of affairs, " dobbin" and the pretty boy finish 
the latter half of the journey. The youngster laughing, as the rough 
action of the horse bumps him up and down, he all the time dragging at 
the halter. Before home is reached, night has set in ; the boy dis- 
mounts, and with all the simplicity his face can assume leads " dobbin" 
to the homestead. 

The boy is protesting about being so very tired after his long walk, 
when the horse's mouth is discovered to be stained with blood. The 
youthful expression of surprise exceeds that of the elder's. 'Next the 
halter is found to be rich with the same fluid. The horse's mouth is 
then opened, it is full of blood, and the tongue nearly cut through. 
Accusations are made against the lad ; at first they are replied to with 
defiance; at last they are propitiated with tears, drawn forth by the 
idea of honesty being suspected. Youthful knowing, however, is not in 
the long run a match for the self-interest of age; and perseverance is 
rewarded by a full confession. 

"The chaw" is an artifice recognized in every stable. Grooms have 
their tastes. It is very unpleasant to these gentry when they behold 
some unmannerly horse bang back in the halter. Stalls are drained into 
a main channel, situated at the edge of the gangway. The pavement on 
which the animal stands consequently slants from the manger to the 
footpath. This nice arrangement obliges the horse always to stand 
with the toes in the air and throws the weight of the body upon the 
back sinews. To ease its aching limbs the animal is apt to go to the 
extent of its rope, so as to place the hind feet upon the gangway, and 



LACERATED TONGUE. 



7T 




ABUSE OP THE HALTER. 



even occasionally to give tlie toe an opposite direction by allowing it to 
sink into the open drain. Such presumption horrifies the groom's sense 
of propriety. The ignorant mind's idea 
of beauty is "everything to match." He 
thinks all is so nice when the animals dress 
to a line, like soldiers on parade. To have 
this line preserved, even in his absence, he 
puts "a chaw" into the refractory "brute's" 
mouth. This chaw is to be preserved night 
and day. The tongue soon gets under the 
rope. Timidity is rendered yet more fearful 

by persecution. The voice of the groom has become a terror to the 
quadruped. It hangs back for ease, and is surprised by the vehement 
exclamation of the tormentor. Back goes the neck and up goes the 
head. The animal runs to its manger, but something has fallen upon 
the floor ! The horse was luxuriating in hanging back to the full ex- 
tent when surprised. The sudden start jerked the halter rein, and the 
result is the free portion of the tongue falls from the mouth, severed by 
the rope. 

These are lamentable instances of the general behavior of grooms to 
the creatures entrusted to their care. Nothing is so corruptive as mis- 
placed authority. A little mind knows no difference between the pos- 
session of power and the indulgence of tyranny. The use and the abuse 
are synonyms to the ignorant ; and the sins committed principally reside 
with him who places the life Heaven has entrusted to his care in such 
unworthy custody. 

When a tongue is partially divided, do not insert sutures of any kind. 
Metallic sutures wound the fleshy palate, and silk sutures soon slough 
out. Neither, therefore, does good, and 
each serves to confine the food which 
enters the division. Foreign matter irri- 
tates a wound and retards its healing. 
Consequently, do nothing to the tongue 
when partially divided. Feed the patient 
on gruel until the healing is complete, and 
wash out the mouth thrice daily, with some 
chloride of zinc lotion, one scruple of the 
salt to a pint of water, after the manner 
described in the preceding article. 

Should the tongue be separated to that extent which divides the ves- 
sels, then, with a knife remove the lacerated part, which otherwise being 
deprived of support, must slough off. Still do nothing to the tongue 




THE TONGUE HEALED AFTER HAVING BEEN 
DEEPLY CUT BUT NOT SUNDERED. 

The jaw has been divided to show the 
injured tongue, as it would appear in the 
mouth. 

a. The indentation at the seat of injury, 
and which will remain so long as life 
shall continue. 



78 TEETH. 

afterward. Feed on thick gruel and wash out the mouth with the lotion. 
A horse with half a tongue will manage to eat and drink, but some food 
is spilt and some left in the manger. Constant dribbling of saliva is 
the chief consequence of such an injury. This is unpleasant, and arises 
from deglutition being injured. A horse which has had the tongue 
lacerated only, but not divided, forever retains the evidence of the in- 
jury; and as the food is apt to accumulate at the point of union, the 
animal ever after demands attention subsequent to every meal. 

TEETH. 

No fact is more discreditable to humanity than the small attention it 
has wasted upon the beautiful lives entrusted to its charge. Mortal 
pride asserts these creatures are given man for his use. Yes. But is 
the full use obtained ? Are not the lives sacrificed ? The horse has 
been the partner of mankind from the earliest period. For centuries at 
least the animal has been watched throughout the day ; yet, even at this 
time, equine disorders are only beginning to be understood. Does this 
fact denote that care which such a charge demanded ? 

Cutting the permanent teeth seems, in the horse, to be effected at 
some expense to the system ; it was a favorite custom with the farriers 
of the last century to trace numerous affections to the teething of the 
animal. Further inquiries have proved our grandfathers knew positively 
nothing about those growths, concerning which they assumed so much. 
The late W. Percivall traced sickness in the horse to irritation, arising 
from cutting of the tushes; there, however, our knowledge ends. Vet- 
erinarians have not, as a rule, either leisure or the necessary power to 
observe those animals it is their province to treat ; they generally are 
but passing visitors to the stables into which they are called. Those 
who have studs of horses nominally placed under their charge feel they 
are retained not to watch, but to physic the animals to which the groom 
directs their attention. 

The tushes of the upper jaw may, however, be fully up, and yet not 
have appeared in the mouth ; this fact is easily explained. The advent 
of the tushes provoked acute inflammation of the membrane covering the 
jaw. The horse was cured of the attendant constitutional symptoms, 
but the cause of the disorder was mistaken. The acute inflammation 
changed into chronic irritation. The membrane, which in the first in- 
stance should have been lanced, thickened and imprisoned the tush 
beneath it; an incision is even now the only remedy, and should in- 
stantly be made. 

Neither tushes nor incisors are known to be exposed to other accidents ; 
it is, however, different with the molar teeth. These teeth consist of 



TEETH. 



Y9 



three components ; bone or ivory constitutes the chief bulk of the organ, 
and over that is spread a thin covering of inorganic enamel, the whole 
being invested with a fibrous coating of crusta petrosa. The enamel is 
the material on which the tooth depends for its cutting properties ; the 
manner in which the edge is preserved deserves attention, for the brick- 
layer's trowel appears to have been suggested by it. A thin coat of 
hard but brittle enamel is held between the two other bulky and tough 
substances, just as a thin layer of steel is protected by coatings of yield- 
ing iron in the house-builder's instrument. 

The highly organized crusta petrosa is often injured; to understand 
this, we must first comprehend the vast power which urges the jaw of 
the horse. The motion resides entirely in the lower portion of the skull, 
which is moved by strong, very strong muscles, going direct from their 
attachments to their insertions. No force is lost by the arrangement, and 
no less a motor power was required to comminute the hays and oats on 
which the horse subsists. The machinery seems to be admirably adapted 
to its purposes; and to be so strongly 
framed as to defy all chance of injury. 
Man, however, has a mighty talent for evil ; 
it does not always suit the convenience of 
the groom to sift the pebbles from the grain ; 
corn and stones are hastily cast into the man- 
ger, and the poor horse, having no hands to 
select with, must masticate all alike. The 
reader can imagine the wrench which will 
ensue, when a flint suddenly checks the 
movement of the molar teeth. The crusta 
petrosa is bruised upon the large fang of the tooth, 
lished, and sad toothache has soon to be endured. 

Then there are the effects of the 
powerful acids in much favor with 
most grooms and too many veteri- 
nary surgeons; moreover, there are 
the sulphates, which in every pos- 
sible form enter into veterinary 
medicine ; the nitrates, likewise, are 
much esteemed, and are given in 
enormous doses. All of these much 
affect the crystalline enamel of the 
molar tooth; a small hole is first 

formed ; into this the food enters and there putrifies ; caries and tooth- 
ache are the result. 




A HORSE WITH TOOTHACHE. 



Disease is estab- 




HORSE QUIDMNG, OB ALLOWING THE FOOD 
TO FALL FROM ITS MOUTH SUBSEQUENT TO 
MASTICATION. 



80 TEETH. 

A horse with toothache upon certain days sweats and labors at its 
work; saliva hangs in long bands from the under" lip ; the countenance 
is utterly dejected ; the head is carried on one side or pressed against 
some solid substance, as a wall. The food is " quidded" — that is, it is 
partially masticated, when, from acute agony, the jaws relax, the teeth 
separate, the lips part, and the morsel falls from the mouth, more or less 
resembling what is termed "a quid of tobacco." 

Upon other days the animal is bounding with life and spirits ; the 
movements are light, and the motions are expressive of perfect happi- 
ness. The head is carried jauntily ; the lips are compressed ; the saliva 
ceases to exude ; the food is devoured with an evident relish, and the 
general health appears to be better than it was before the strange dis- 
ease. The continuance of such bliss is, however, very doubtful ; the 
different stages will often succeed one another with vexatious rapidity. 

If nothing be done, the horse alternates between anguish and happi- 
ness for an unascertained period, when all acute symptoms apparently 
cease. The lips, though no longer actually wet, are not positively dry ; 
the food is often eaten ; but as time progresses a sort of gloom hangs 
about the animal, and deepens every day. The horse seems never free 
from some unaccountable torture ; more time is now occupied in clearing 
the manger ; then the hay may be consumed, but the oats remain un- 
touched. These last are found soaked in apparent water ; the fluid 
turns out to be saliva ; the symptoms by degrees become more severe ; 
a strangely unpleasant odor characterizes the breath ; the flesh wastes, 
and the animal ultimately exhibits hide-bound. 

This stage being attained, and the proprietor becoming much per- 
plexed, he is one morning informed by the groom, who displays many 
nods and winks, of a certain mysterious receipt for a wonderful ball that 
never fails, but always cures. The potent bolus is sent for to the chemist, 

and, after sundry explanations, is com- 
pounded. The groom, stifi" with pride, 
takes the magic morsel ; it is pushed 
rapidly into the horse's mouth ; an ex- 
clamation from the man follows the 
disappearance of the hand, which is 
retracted bathed in blood. 

To afford time for the writer to ex- 

A MOLAR TOOTH HAS BECOME VERY LONG FROM P^^iU thiS inCidCUt, thC rCader mUSt 

THE WANT OF AxiRiiioN IN THE opposiNd youchsafc somc paticuce. The horse's 

molar teeth are miniature grindstones. 
To supply the wear and tear of so violent a service, the molar teeth, 
originally, have enormous fangs, and, as the eating surface is worn 





TEETH. 81 

away, the fangs are thrust into the mouth by the contraction of the 
jaw-bones. 

Caries at first pains, but at last destroys all feeling or life in the 
tooth ; the dead organ ceases to possess any vital quality ; it loses all 
power of self-preservation, and is a mere piece of dead matter opposed 
to a living agent. In consequence, it 
breaks away, while the opposing molar 
projects more forward from the absence 
of attrition. The healthy tooth at last 
bears against the unprotected gum, 
upon which it presses severely, and 
provokes the greatest agony. The 
animal endeavors to prevent the prom- 
inent tooth from paining the iaw by „, .„^ 

r O •) J jHj; MOLAR TEETH HAVE BEEN GROUND SLANIS 

masticatins; entirely upon the sound '''«' ^'"' h*^"^^ ^h*«p ^i"'^^' ^""^^ '^^' 

° ./ 1 HORSE MASTICATINO ONLT UPON ONE SIDE. 

side. Hunger is slowly, and perhaps 

never, satisfied by such imperfect comminution ; the outside of the upper 
molars and the inside of the lower molars become slanting; the first 
being almost as sharp as razors, wound the membrane of the mouth and 
lay open the hand which is thrust into the cavity. 

If the disease be still neglected and permitted to increase, the stench 
grows more formidable ; nasal gleet appears ; the discharge is copious, 
accompanied by a putrid odor; osseous tumors commence; the bones of 
the face are distorted; the eye is imprisoned, and ultimately obliterated 
within the socket by actual pressure ; eating becomes more and more 
painful, until starvation wastes the body and reduces the horse to a 
hide- bound skeleton. 

If such a case be taken early, its cure is easy and certain; the dead 
tooth must be extracted, and the prominent molar shortened by means 
of the adjusting forceps and the guarded chisel, invented by Mr. T. W. 
Gowing, veterinary surgeon, of Camden Town. Then the sharp edges 
must be lowered by the tooth-file, and if these things appear to occupy 
time, it is better done at two or even three operations, than unduly pro- 
long the agony of a sick animal. This being accomplished, all is not 
ended ; the horse's mouth must, from time to time, be again and again 
operated upon; nor will the creature offer much opposition to the 
proceeding, if only proper gentleness be observed. 

Aged»Jia^rses, from the contraction of the lower jaw, (which change 
is natural to increase of years in the equine race,) frequently have their 
upper molars ground to a knife-like sharpness. They wound the inside 
of the cheeks, cause a disinclination to eat, and provoke a dribbling of 
saliva. The cure is the tooth-file, which should be applied until the 

6 



82 SCALD MOUTH. 

natural level is attained. This should be fallowed by the frequent use 
of the wash recommended for aphtha, or by the chloride of zinc lotion. 
It may probably provoke a laugh among gentlemen and horsemen to 
read of toothache in the horse. Few, very few grooms may have wit- 
nessed or have noticed such a disease, but the fact exists ; it is, indeed, 
a cruel reality to the animal which experiences it. The ignorance of 
stable men can establish nothing, for they are, as a class, equally pre- 
sumptuous and ignorant ; they have seen the horse for years, and yet are 
acquainted with neither the natural ailments nor the proper treatment of 
the animal. The toothache is to the creature a most agonizing dis- 
order. We have only to look at the healthy horse, to observe how 
exquisitely it is clothed, how finely it is framed, to imagine how sensi- 
tive must be the body. The horse seems capable of a fear the most 
cowardly of mankind never conceived. So its face, though not made for 
expression, can denote an anguish which the human mind fortunately has 
no capacity to picture. The eye is often painful in its speaking. It 
embodies a desperation, a weariness of the world, and a prayer for 
death, such as few people comprehend ; or the cry would rise, from the 
length and breadth of the land, demanding, as with one voice, the more 
Christian treatment of man's fellow-creature. 

SCALD MOUTH. 

This is an accident which occasionally occurs where grooms are too 
ignorant, or too thoughtless to read the direction labeled upon every 
bottle sent into the stable. Potent fluids are sometimes transmitted 
pure, in small bottles, though the custom is highly reprehensible ; nor is the 
practice bettered because the label orders the contents to be mixed with 
water before the medicine is administered to the horse. Grooms are 
generally careless, and proverbially in a hurry ; one of them enters the 
stable to give the drench, sees the bottle, seizes it in haste, calls the helper 
nearest the stable door, and, with such assistance, pours the liquid fire 
down the animal's throat. 

The mouth is by the potent drug deprived of its lining membrane, and 
the stomach is lastingly injured ; even if the dose be too small to oc- 
casion death, the interior of the mouth is rendered raw. Fortunate is the 
man who can be certain the evil there begins and extends no farther ; 
but who can calculate the effect upon delicate, internal organs ? The 
mouth may be healed, but who can ascertain the state of the deeper in- 
jury ? Animals are treated as though their sensibilities were not affected 
by any medium pain; something must be visible before the groom sanc- 
tions the right in his charge to be restless. All signs and motions 



SCALD MOUTH. 83 

denoting a gnawing agony, but not expressive of overpowering anguish, 
are visited with chastisement. 

The groom is not entirely to blame. The fault resides with his 
superiors, whom the servant apes. The sin rests with those who (un- 
able to keep a stud-groom) think their duty is discharged by a daily 
scamper through the stable before they go to business ; with those who 
by their manners corrupt the groom's simplicity, while by a strange 
costume they induce the ignorant fellow to regard the badge of his dis- 
grace as the upholder of his pride. To the upper classes, the short 
comings of stable men cling; with the superiors, whose example should 
instruct, rests the real blame of the servant. With educated men abide 
the errors of the ignorant. 

After a scalding drench, an unusual redness declares the state of the 
mouth ; a quantity of saliva flows from the restless lips, which are con- 
stantly in motion; they are being moved 
perpetually up and down, and are always 
parting with a smack. The food, for a time, 
is rejected, but good gruel, if cold, is gen- 
erally taken freely. Boiled roots should con- 
stitute the nourishment for two months after- 
ward, the mouth being all the while washed 
with the application recommended for aphtha, g^^j, jj^^.^^ 

No immediate danger is to be apprehended 
from scald mouth. The stomach is more disposed to assume chronic 
than acute disease. Probably the temporary services of the animal 
might well be dispensed with, and much might be gained by an extra 
months' continuance of the prepared food. At all events, the experi- 
ment would be intended to ward off a possible evil ; and, if we are to 
believe at all the motive, being based on goodness, the act would not 
be without its reward. 




CHAPTER IV. 

THE NOSTRILS— THEIR ACCIDENTS AND THEIR DISEASES. 



COLD. 



It should not excite surprise if the horse, though generally strong, 
and exposed to every abuse, is occasionally subject to the disease 
which, in man, is almost the property of the delicately nurtured. The 




SELLING "A CAPTAIN," AS ANT HOKSE WITH A NASAL DISCHARGE IS CALLED BY THE LOW DEALERS. 

animal exists in a stable commonly kept at a high temperature by means 
of contaminated air; it is taken thence into a wintry atmosphere to 
stand for an uncertain period before the master's door. There it has 
to remain inactive, shivering in the blast, until it suits the proprietor's 
convenience to come forth; next, it is pushed along till the perspiration 
bedews the sides. Then it has to remain, generally unprotected, in the 
cold until some business is transacted, when it is flurried home again, 
and often has to wait afterward till it suits the groom's leisure to dry 
the reeking frame. 

Can it create astonishment if an animal so treated exhibit that nasal 
affection denominated "cold ?" The case is similar with hunters. They 
leave hot stables to join the distant meet. Game may be soon started, 
(84) 



COLD. 85 

or "the find" may occupy hours; at last, men, horses, and hounds 
scamper off; the fences are cleared; the fields, though they be swampy 
or plowed, are crossed at the longest stride. The pace is killing 
while it lasts; at length, comes a check. That saves many a steed, 
whose breathing ability was well nigh exhausted ; but every animal has 
to shiver till the "view holloa 1" again summons the assembly to motion. 

How often does my lady's "carriage stop the way?" And how long 
have the horses to stand in the rain before it does go ? How frequently 
does the gig or brougham linger near the curb, while another glass to 
good fellowship is drained ? Then, we have to reflect upon the breathing 
forms harnessed to hired carriages ; how the street cab rests in storms ! 
How, day or night, the horses must be exposed to all the varied seasons! 
Unsheltered from the sun ; with no protection from the frost ! Let the 
reader reflect upon this and say, not if it be wonderful that a few horses 
exhibit the afi'ection denominated cold ; but whether it is not a legiti- 
mate matter for surprise every second horse is 
not thus affected ? 

A mild cold, with care, is readily alleviated. 
A few mashes, a little green meat, an extra 
rug and a day or two of rest, commonly end 
the business. When the attack is more se- 
vere, the horse is dull ; the coat is rough ; the 
body is of unequal temperatures, hot in parts, 
in places icy cold. The membrane of the 
nose at first is dry and pale or leaden colored ; 
the facial sinuses are clogged ; the head aches ; 
the appetite has fled ; often tears trickle from 
the eyes, simple ophthalmia being no rare ac- a house's head, exhibiting a 
companiment to severe cold ; till at length a 

copious defluxion falls from the nostrils without immediately improving 
the general appearance of the animal. 

The treatment is plain. When mucous membrane is involved, all de- 
pletion must be avoided ; the invalid should be comfortably and warmly 
housed ; should have an ample bed, and the body should be plentifully 
clothed. Then a hair bag, half as long and half as wide again as the 
ordinary nose-bag, should be buckled by a broad strap on to the sick 
horse's head ; into the bag should be previously inserted one gallon of 
yellow deal saw-dust ; upon the saw-dust, through an opening guarded 
with a flap upon the side of the bag, should be emptied a kettle of boil- 
ing water, the superfluity of which may run or drain through the hair 
composing the bag. 

The boiling water ought to be renewed every twenty minutes, as the 




86 



COLD. 




STEAMING THE NOSE OF A IIURSE 
WITH COLD. 



bag should be retained upon the head for an hour each time. Should 
not yellow deal saw-dust be obtainable, procure some of common deal, 

upon which last pour one ounce of spirits of 
turpentine. Mix well and thoroughly before 
you apply the bag to the head ; but should 
not a proper apparatus be in the stable, then 
it is better to forego the steaming, as the 
common nose-bag is far too short and too 
tight for safety. The cloth moreover is apt 
to swell and not to allow the free passage of 
the water. Sad accidents have ensued upon 
the incautious employment of the ordinary 
nose-bag for steaming purposes. 

If the horse appear to be weak, and there 
is the slightest suspicion that the weight of 
the appliance for the time directed may tax 
the strength, let some substance, as a stool, a 
form or chair, be placed beneath the bag. The 
animal will require no teaching to understand 
the use of the intended resting-place. As the weight begins to drag, 
the head will be lowered, and after a very brief space the steaming 
apparatus will be found reposing upon its intended support. 

While the membrane is dry, use the steaming-bag six times daily. 
When a copious stream of pus flows from the nose, its application thrice 
daily will be sufficient. At the same time let the food consist of grass 
with mashes, to regulate the bowels and subdue the attendant fever. 
Give no medicine ; but the discharge being established, three daily feeds 
of crushed and scalded oats, with a few broken beans added to them, 
will do no harm. Likewise, should the weakness be great, a couple of 
pots of stout, one pot at night and the other at morning, will be bene- 
ficial. Good nursing, a loose box, fresh air, warmth, and not even exer- 
cise till the disorder abates, are also to be commended. Afterward 
take to full work with caution, as much debility is apt to ensue upon 
severe cold. It will also sometimes lead to other diseases, as those of 
the larynx, air-passages, and lungs. Should the symptoms deepen, the 
treatment must be changed ; the lesser affection (cold) being swallowed 
up by the greater disorder, which is superadded ; consequently, disre- 
gard the original ailment, taking those measures requisite to relieve the 
new and more important affliction. 

Animals with chronic cold, or with a constant running from the nose, 
soon exhibit excessive weakness. Nothing taxes the strength so much 
as the prolonged disorder of any mucous surface. 



COLD. 



87 




HEAD OP A HOKSE Wlin "A JUG," OR WITH 
ONE OF THE LYMPHATIC GLANDS OF THE THROAT 
SWOLLEN. 

1. The enlarged lymphatic within the jaw. 



All that ignorant people know of glanders is, "that the disease is 
accompanied with a nasal defluxion. The more cunning in horse flesh, 
likewise, are aware that glanders 
causes the lymphatic gland within 
the jaw to swell, or that a gland- 
ered horse is always, as such peo- 
ple assert, jugged. 

Now, both the discharge and 
the enlargement are generally 
present during inveterate cold. 
Animals of this kind are sold to 
the unwary as sound horses. The 
vendors believe the quadruped to • 

be glandered, or to be affected with the most terrible of equine diseases ; 
and the purchaser wants knowledge to perceive the contrary. 

Let, therefore, no man who buys "a captain," (which is the slang for 
^a horse with nasal discharge,) become alarmed, and to some member of 
the gang from whom it was bought, resell his bargain for a few shillings. 
Large sums are often made by thus disposing of a diseased animal for a 
high price ; then, directly afterward, frightening the purchaser with a 
view to buying back at a cheap rate the supposed glandered horse. 
Always take the animal to the nearest veterinary surgeon. Have the 
quadruped examined ; and, if really glandered, order it to be immediately 
^destroyed. Listen to no offer ; but have the order obeyed. 

A gentleman once attending a sale, bought for a large price a fine 
black horse. No sooner had the money been paid, than a man came up 
and informed the purchaser of the real character of his recent acquisi- 
tion, offering to take the bargain off the new owner's hands for fewer 
shillings than pounds had just been given. The proposal was indig- 
nantly refused. Others came, but all encountered the same answer. 
The terms were gradually heightened, till double the money expended 
was tendered. The horse, however, was destroyed; thus a gang of 
swindlers were deprived of a property which, they owned, had for the last 
year earned them an easy thousand pounds. 

Every man, however, must not anticipate so favorable a proposal. 
The animals mostly are worthless, and would only be rebought for a 
very trifle ; the swindlers, generally, being perfectly indifferent whether 
their eyes ever again behold a creature which can be easily replaced. 



88 



NASAL POLYPUS. 




NASAL POLYPUS. 

A polypus, when not otherwise distinguished, represents a pear-shaped 
body, which has little sensation, but great vascularity. It is not malig- 
nant, and its growth is generally rapid. By the increase of its weight, 
the polypus ultimately hangs from the spot where it grew, 
and becomes pendant by a sort of stalk, formed principally 
by the blood-vessels enveloped in the membrane which coats 
the tumor. Such growths are peculiar to mucous tissues, 
or to all the cavities of the body which communicate with 
the external air. With regard to the horse, polypus is 
mostly met with in the nostrils. 

It is a disputed point how these growths are occasioned. 
However, no compliment is paid to the veterinary science, 
when it is asserted that, even to this day, no recognized 
plan of treatment for polypus has been laid down. Such tumors are 
allowed to be removed with the knife, by ligature, by traction, and by 
tortion ; in short, as you please. The first has generally been employed 
after a most butcherly fashion, slicing a piece off one day, and taking a 
morsel the next, till by slow degrees the whole was extirpated. So bar- 
barous an operation is only worthy of ancient farriery; the blood lost 
must be enormous, and the subsequent weakness of the animal must more 
than counterbalance any benefit which the operation could have promised. 
Mr. Yarnell, assistant professor at the Royal Veterinary College, lately 
removed a growth of this kind in a much more surgical fashion. That 
gentleman had a knife made with an angular blade; by employing this 
instrument, he was enabled to excise the tumor with a single cut, inflict- 
ing little pain, but affording immediate and lasting benefit to the crea- 
ture. Where it can be employed, Mr. Yarnell's angular knife is to be 
recommended, as the quickest and most efficient 
means of eradication which the public possess. 

Tortion is more repulsive in appearance than in 
reality. A pair of scissors having sharp curved 
claws, at the expanded ends of blunt blades, are em- 
ployed. The tumor is seized by the claws, a little 
pressure is made, and, at the same time, the scissors 
are drawn slightly forward. By that means the points 
are driven into the substance, and a firm hold is ob- 
tained. The handles of the scissors are next fastened 
together with wii'e, or not, at the pleasure of the operator. The scissors 
are afterward made to revolve several times, and with each revolution 




POLTPnS FORCEPS OR 
SCISSORS. 



NASAL POLYPUS. 89 

they oblige the polypus to turn upon its pedicle, which motion first 
twists and ultimately ruptures it. The growth is thus removed ; as the 
polypus is not very sensitive, and the operation should be soon over, 
small suffering is inflicted, when compared with the permanent ease which 
the proceeding insures. 

Of the operation by traction or dragging away, no notice will be 
taken ; it is a vulgar and a cruel affair. Ligature, however, where it 
can be used, is generally preferred ; because the employment of it is not 
so sudden, and, consequently, not apparently so violent; because no 
blood generally follows the removal, and therefore there is no visible 
evidence of pain. The writer is not certain it is the least painful of the 
methods proposed; the relief is delayed, although the appearance and 
the appetite of the animal are assurances that nothing approaching to 
agony is inflicted. 

For ligature procure a fine, hollow tube, having at one end a cover 
made to screw on and off; the opposite extremity must be open, and 
should have a cross bar attached externally, one inch from the termina- 
tion. Upon the cover two holes must be bor^d, each large enough to 
admit a fine wire ; to arm this 
Instrument, which should be 
about eighteen inches long, 
procure a piece of zinc wire 
one yard and a half lone:; 

•' " & > DIAGRAM OF A TUBE FOB THE REMOVAL OF NASAL POLYPUS. 

push this through one of the 

holes on the unscrewed cover and down the tube; screw on the cover; 
fasten the projecting end of the wire to the cross bar; return the 
wire through the other hole, and, passing it down the tube, leave it 
hanging free. Form of the wire a loop, large enough to surround the 
polypus ; pass it gently over the head of the growth ; by means of the 
tube, work the loop upward, tightening the wire as the size of the poly- 
pus diminishes. When the wire is round the pedicle, fix it by winding 
it also over the cross bar; then slowly make turns with the tube, 
observing the growth while so doing. When the tumor changes color 
or the animal exhibits pain, discontinue all further movements ; release 
the wires from the cross bar and withdraw the tube, leaving the ends of 
the ligature protruding from the nostril and turned up on one side 
of the face. 

Order the horse to be fastened to the pillar-reins that night, and to be 
watched while feeding. The next day, if the tumor do not feel sensibly 
cold and has not evidently lost the living hue, reinsert the wires into the 
tube, fix them again on the cross bar, and give another turn or two. If 
small alteration be subsequently observed, the same evening the pro- 




90 NASAL POLYPUS. 

ceeding may be repeated ; but, when death appears confirmed in the 
tumor, twist the tube till the pedicle gives way. 

The advantages possessed by this invention is, firstly, the ability of 
twisting a ligature tight when the growth is partly removed from view. 
Also, in the adoption of wire which will retain the form it is placed in, 
and remain unaffected by the moisture natural to the nostrils. More- 
over, the tube can be made without the screwing head-piece, and answers 
quite as well, or even better, when solid. If made without the screwing 
head-piece, it can assume a flattened form, and it is somewhat easier to 
introduce ; but the wire, in that case, must have both ends pushed 
through the holes down the tube. 

The bleeding polypus is not met with in the horse. For that poly- 
pus which sprouts from the nasal membrane and extends to the fauces, 
impeding respiration and deglutition, appearing like a disease of the 
structure, to which it is attached by a broad base, nothing can be done. 
It grows fast, and in a short time renders longer life a larger misery. 

The polypus which admits of removal is a smooth, moist, glistening 
and vascular body. It gieatly impedes the breathing. These growths 
have been known to push out the cartilaginous division of the nostrils 
until the once free passage was all but obliterated. They provoke a 

constant discharge of pure mu- 
cus, and, on that account, the 
horse, thus affected, has been 
condemned as glandered. How- 
A TENACULUM. cvcr, thc truth may be at once 

recognized by closing the nos- 
trils alternately. It is then easy to discover which cavity is affected, as 
a resistance is provoked by stopping the free channel, which bears no 
resemblance to glanders. To bring down the polypus, cough the horse, 
by making gentle pressure upon the topmost part of the windpipe ; for, 
during the stages of glanders, any appearance at all resembling polypus 
is never present. It was usual, the instant the growth was visible, 
to transfer it with a tenaculum. This, however, like other barbarities, 
only did harm. The substance of a polypus is easily rent, and it bleeds 
freely. The bleeding concealed much, which, after proceedings rendered 
necessary, should be plainly seen. It is better, when sufficient room is 
not left for operation or inspection, to proceed with greater boldness, so 
as to ascertain the advantages likely to result from further measures. 
Then throw the horse, and with a probe-pointed, straight bistoury, slit 
up the nostril upon the outer side. That done, release the animal till 
all bleeding has ceased, when the endeavors may be renewed with a 
better prospect of success. Afterward, close the incision with a double 




NASAL GLEET. 



91 



set of sutures, (one set to the true nosti'il and another for the false nos- 
tril.) Apply to the wound the chloride of 
zinc wash, aud in a short time all will be 
healed. 

Nasal polypus, nevertheless, is an affec- 
tion often requiring the performance of 
tracheotomy, before any examination can be 
attempted. For this necessity, the operator 
must be prepared ; but, as tracheotomy is 
required only to relieve the breathing during 
examination, the temporary tube invented 
by Mr. Gowing is, in that instance, decidedly to be recommended. 




NASAL POLYPUS. 



NASAL GLEET. 

This terrible affliction is suppuration of the mucous membrane, lining 
the facial sinuses. It rarely occurs in the stable ; but when it does, the 
cause mostly is to be traced to the projection of some molar tooth, and 
the disease is then generally hopeless. The pressure of the tooth has 
provoked irritation of the bone. The sinuses are no longer hollow 
spaces, but have been converted into cavities crowded with bony net- 
work. To cleanse them in that condition is impossible, and death is 
the only resort left to a humane proprietor. 

Horses, when allowed a run at grass, are often taken up with the 
bones of the face swollen and soft. Percussion draws forth the same 
response as would be elicited by rapping upon a pumpkin. The animal, 
suddenly released from toil, has been playing in the field with its new 
associates. The simple creature could not comprehend 
the feet were fettered. The equine race always dis- 
play joy with their heels, and the hoof, which unshod 
might lightly touch the neighbor's skull and no injury 
result, being armed with iron carries additional weight 
with the blow, and leaves behind a deadly bruise upon 
the facial bones. The following engraving, represent- 
ing an extreme case of this kind, is a warning never to 
turn your animal into a field where others are grazing ; 
but if you are obliged to starve a horse on grass, at all 
events choose a spot where it can be alone. 

Besides the distortion, the next prominent symptom 
attending nasal gleet is fetor. Discharge is not always 
present. It is irregular in its appearance, but can 
generally be made to flow, by a brisk trot or by some tempting food 




NASAL GLEET. 



92 NASAL GLEET. 

being placed upon the ground.! Stench and discharge, often coming 
only from one nostril, but occasionally from two, are likewise sympto- 
matic of the same disorder. 

Pus is, naturally, the blandest secretion of the body ; but being con- 
fined, it corrupts, and then smells abominably. The blow, which started 
up the secretion, injured the bones forming facial sinuses. Those cavities 
open to the nostril on either side by two comparatively small flaps, slits, 
or valves. These are their only means of communication with the ex- 
ternal atmosphere ; and through these valves all the pus must flow. Is 
it surprising if such structures occasionally become clogged, till the 
accumulated secretion, or the increased breathing, or the position of the 
head, obliges the passage to give way ? 

The chances likely to result upon treatment are about equal, but the 
process is generally slow. The trephine has to be employed upon the 
facial sinus, and circular portions of bone have to be removed. Into 
the openings thus made is to be injected, by means of a pint pewter 
syringe, half a gallon of tepid water, or water heated to ninety-six de- 
grees, in which half a drachm of chloride of zinc is dissolved. The 
chloride of zinc not only destroys the fetor, but also disposes the mem- 
brane to take on a new action. 

The injection, however, only cleanses the sinuses, and the nose also 
becomes involved by the disease. It is usual to describe the turbinated 
bones, or the fragile bones situated within the nostrils, as thin osseous 





THE TREPHINE, BY MEANS OF 
■WHICH A CIRCULAR PIECE OP 
BONE MAY BE EEMOVEB. 



INJECTINQ THE HEAD OP A HORSE FOR NASAL GLEET. 

Copied from a work by La Fosse. 



structures, making numerous convolutions upon themselves. They favor 
such an opinion when viewed in situ; but, being removed, are found to 
consist of ample sacs or bags, which the external layer concealed from 
view. These hidden spaces soon fill with pus ; here it remains ; the 



NASAL GLEET. 



93 



position of the head even cannot entirely dislodge it, as the head is 
seldom carried perpendicularly. Here the pus hardens or concretes, 
until by degrees the cavities are filled with a foul and solid matter. 





THE TURBINATED BONE VITHIN THE NOSTRIL 
OP A HORSE AFFECTED WITH NASAL GLEET; 
PARTLY ABSORBED BY PRESSURE AND PARTLY 
DISTENDED BY AN ACCUMDLATION OF CON- 
CEETE PUS. 



PART OF A HORSE S HEAD WHICH HAS 
THE BONE TREPHINED SO A3 TO EN- 
ABLE THE SURGEON TO EMPTY THE 
TURBINATED BONE. THE COURSE OP 
THE NERVES IS SHOWN. 



Such a store-house of disease may thus be opened and cleansed. Mark 
with chalk or charcoal the spot in a line with the infra-orbital foramen, 
and a little anterior to the third molar tooth ; the positions of both may 
be clearly ascertained by feeling externally upon the head of the living 
horse. At that place cut through the skin, but no deeper. Make a T 
incision, only reverse the letter J.. Withdraw the two flaps of skin; 
remove by means of blunt hooks any structures that conceal the bone, 
upon which last, when clear, employ the trephine. 

The side of the face being opened, insert through the opening a steel 
probe. Thrust it through the concrete pus, and strive to discover the 
most depending portion of the sac. To this spot, if possible, apply a 
hollow metallic tube, about twelve inches long. This instrument has a 
horn-shaped mouth at the blunt extremity, and a fine sharp steel saw at 
the other. The saw being fixed upon the spot indicated by the probe, 
and a few revolutions being given to the horn-shaped end, between the 




Fig. 2. 

Fig. 1. The hollow metallic tube, hiving at one extremity a horn-shaped mouth for the conveniencs 
of inserting a gum-elastic probe, and at the other end a fine sawfor cutting through the turbinated bone. 

Fig. 2. a. A gum-elastic probe to be threaded through the metallic tube, and so forced out of the nos- 
tril. 6. A portion of string passed through the eye of the probe and forming a loop. c. The tape which 
constitutes the seton passed through the looped string. 

palms of the hands, a circular portion of the bony net-work which char- 
acterizes the turbinated structures is removed. 

Now, so soon as this is accomplished, force through the hollow instru- 



94 HIGHBLOWING AND WHEEZING. 

ment last employed an elastic probe armed with -a piece of linen tape. 
The probe, being about eighteen inches long, will, by the application of 
very gentle force, soon glide through the opening last made, and out of 
the nostril. The tape is, by traction, made to follow, and the ends being 
tied, a seton is established. By the daily movement of this last contri- 
vance, the concrete matter may effectually be displaced. 

This being finished, the syringe is to be daily employed ; and the cure 
may be often expedited by the following ball, which should be given 
once every twenty-four hours : — 

Balsam of copaiba Half an ounce. 

Cantharides (in powder) Four grains. 

Cubebs A sufficiency. — Mix. 

Should this appear to affect the urinary system, immediately discon- 
tinue it. In its place, half a drachm of belladonna should be rubbed 
down in one ounce of water, and administered every hour, till all ap- 
petite is destroyed, and the drug should be discontinued after this effect 
is gained. The belladonna, however, should be exhibited only every 
fourth day. 

The lymphatic glands under the horse's jaw occasionally enlarge ; but 
as the affection is destroyed the swelling will disappear. However, the 
cure may be expedited by commodious lodging and liberal food. It 
evidently is folly to stint the provender and expect a starved nature to 
vanquish disease. 

HIGHBLOWING AND WHEEZING. 

These peculiarities admit of no pictorial illustration. Obviously, it is 
impossible to picture a sound. Both affections are known by the noises 
to which they give rise. 

Highblowing is complained of only in saddle horses. It consists of 
forcing the respiration violently through the nostrils, whereby a bur-r-r-r- 
ing kind of noise is made. This sound children are fond of imitating, 
when they play "horses;" but in the animal it is unpleasant to the 
equestrian, because by it the nostrils are cleared, and the trousers of the 
rider are often soiled. Besides, fashion at present favors a quiet steed. 
For this habit there is no remedy, except throwing up the horse for har- 
ness purposes, in which employment the habit is not generally regarded 
as objectionable. 

Wheezing is a thin, whistling noise, heard only during inspiration. It 
is provoked by some impediment to the breathing, and the cause always 
resides in the nasal chambers. It is astonishing how small an obstacle 
engenders this affection. This, like the former peculiarity, is equally 
incurable. It is easy to stop each nostril, and thus to tell from which 



HIGHBLOWING AND WHEEZING. 95 

the noise proceeds; yet, for its removal, the affection demands a purely 
experimental destruction of parts, so ample, that even veterinary science 
shrinks from the attempt. 

However, to such chances the life of a horse is exposed. The indul- 
gence of a habit which adds to the animal's beauty in the eyes of the 
foot passenger, is regarded as objectionable in one position, while it is 
admired in another situation ; the advent of the smallest excrescence in 
a large cavity can deteriorate the value of a life. A loss of value entails 
loss of caste. The life descends to harder work and lessened care. The 
first step taken, the others rapidly succeed ; for it cannot be asserted 
that, as a general rule, the lower classes appear to advantage, when the 
custody of a beautiful animal is morally considered. 



CHAPTER V. 

THE THROAT — ITS ACCIDENTS AND ITS DISEASES. 



SORE THROAT. 



There is, among horse owners, much dispute as to the proper mode 
of harnessing a horse. Gentility has no feeling either for itself or with 
any of the many lives by which it is surrounded ; this vice of modern 
time delights in labored imposture, and is always best pleased when it 




WITH AND WITHOUT THE EEAMNQ-EEIN. 



is mistaken for something that it is not. Gentility favors the use of a 
bearing-rein in the horse's harness. The object is to keep up the head, 
and to give to an animal with a ewe neck the aspect of one having a 
lofty crest. The artifice is very transparent ; it should deceive nobody 
save him who is foolish enough to adopt it ; but it deprives the poor 
horse of no little of its natural power. Gentlemen's coachmen complain 
of the work when their horses are driven ten miles daily, although the 
distance may be repeatedly broken by visits and by shopping. The cabs 
of London can only employ the horses which gentlemen have discarded; 
with these last vehicles, however, no bearing-reins are adopted. The 
cast-oflF animal that previously fagged over ten miles, when reduced to 
the rank, has to pull loads which no genteel carriage would carry, and 
196) 



SORE THROAT. 



97 



to travel 9, sufficient distance to pay horse, driver, conveyance, and pro- 
prietor. In the possibility of such a contrast is, perhaps, best exemplified 
the cruelty of the bearing-rein. 

When the fine structure of the horse's body is regarded, and we reflect 
that a creature of so beautiful a frame is by man's will taken from the 
fields, where every bite of grass is of a different flavor — now hot and 
pungent by an admixture of the buttercup, then cool and bland by the 
marsh-mallow mingling with the morsel — where, unknown as yet to toil, 
such sustenance is sufficient for growth and idleness ; when we consider 
that an animal is suddenly snatched from such a diet, every mouthful of 
which was endowed not only with a varied taste, but with a change of 
perfume ; when we feebly conjecture how grateful this ever-varying savor 
must have rendered herbage to any being possessed of the admirable 
sense of smell with which the equine species are gifted, it can create but 
small surprise that, when taken into stables, put to exhausting labor, 
and day after day made to eat a stinted allowance of dry food, the same- 
ness of the diet and the change in habit should occasionally derange the 
digestion. Sore throat is, however, frequently a sign of some graver 
disorder ; the affection should, therefore, be cautiously treated as a local 
malady. 

When it is present, the symptoms are a constant deglutition of saliva, 
a want of appetite, accompanied by an inability to swallow liquids. The 
pail being presented, the act of drinking is accomplished with evident 
effort ; the drops are forced down by a series of jerks, which are often 
made more emphatic by an aud- 
ible accompaniment. Notwith- 
standing this labor, only a por- 
tion of the fluid enters the 
gullet, the greater part return- 
ing by the nostrils. 

So soon as this is observed, 
throw the horse up, for sore 
throat is always attended with 
weakness. Clothe fully, band- 
age the legs, place in a well- 
ventilated and amply littered 
loose box; feed upon green 
meat for a couple of days, at 
the same time always having 
present a pail of thick, well- 
made gruel, which should be regularly changed, thrice daily. Morning, 
noon, and night, a pottle of bruised oats, with a handful of old beans 

7 




A HORSE WITH SORE THROAT EtfDEATORINO TO DRINK. 



98 SORE THROAT. 

distributed among them, should be scalded, and, when blood-warm, placed 
in the manger. 

Frequently, this is all that is required, and the disorder is well cured, 
which' yields without medicine. Should the bowels prove obstinate, and 
after the second day continue constipated, a mild dose of solution of 
aloes should be administered. 

Solution of aloes Four ounces. 

Essence of aniseseed Half an ounce. 

"Water One pint. 

Mix, and give. 
This, with the diet previously recommended, is rarely required, as the 
food alone, so far as the author's experience can justify an opinion, never 
fails in relaxing the body. However, should the sore throat remain, 
dissolve half an ounce of extract of belladonna in one gallon of water. 
Hold up the head of the animal and put half a pint of this liquid into 
the mouth ; allow the fluid to be retained for thirty seconds, then take 
away the support, and the medicine will run from the lips. Repeat this 
frequently, or from six to eight times during the day. 

If the soreness of the throat should appear indisposed to heal, but, on 
the contrary, should seem inclined to spread, lose no time in resorting to 
the next preparation. Permanganate of potash, (prepared by Squires, 
chemist, of Oxford Street,) half a pint ; distilled water, one gallon ; half 
a pint to be used to cleanse the horse's mouth, in the manner just directed 
for diluted belladonna, six times daily, or — 

Chloride of zinc Three drachms. 

Extract of belladonna Half an ounce. 

Tincture of capsicums Two drachms. 

Water One gallon. 

Mix, and use as directed for the previous recipe. 
Occasionally the disease does not spread, but, spite of our best en- 
deavors, it will remain stationary. Then try the brewers' stout. Give 
one quart morning and evening. However, see that the animal has the 
beer, for men are partial to that fluid, even more than horses. Should 
no change be remarked in forty-eight hours, blister the throat. Do this 
with one part of powdered cantharides soaked for a month in seven 
parts of olive oil, adding to the whole one part by weight of camphor. 
Rub this oil, when filtered through blotting paper, into the throat for 
ten minutes in summer, and a quarter of an hour in winter. 

All the endeavors may be useless. Then cast the horse. Have ready 
some nitrate of silver, dissolved in distilled water — five grains of the 
active salt to one ounce of the fluid. Saturate in the solution a sponge 
four inches wide, tied on to the end of a stick eighteen inches long. 
Have the sponge made as dry as possible without squeezing it. Put a 



COUGH. 99 

balling iron into the mouth. Insert the sponge tjirough the iron, and 
having pushed it down to the back of the tongue, rapidly press it against 
the side of the cavity. Be prepared for what you are about to do, and 
do it quickly. The operation stops the breathing, and calls forth the 
resistance which is natui-al to impending suffocation. 

The horse being released, give the following ball, in addition to the 
j?tout, twice each day : — 

Powdered oak bark and treacle, a sufficiency of each to form a mass. 

If none of these measures are successful, the sore throat must be the 
symptom only of some greater disorder, and all local remedies, in that 
case, must be ingulfed in the general treatment. However, it is not 
every measure which will cure every sore throat. In young horses, when 
first taken from the pure air into the contaminated atmosphere of most 
stables, such affections are common; but in old animals they are gen- 
erally most severe. It is a usual plan to turn a horse out to grass 
when afflicted with obstinate sore throat : this is cruel. The animal, 
whose labor we enjoyed during its health, has a positive claim on us 
for kindness and for care when overtaken by disease. Moreover, those 
who laugh at the above may become serious, when they are informed 
that animals turned to grass for sore throat are not unfrequently taken 
up virulently glandered. So closely are moral diity and self-interest 
associated, when the operation of both is rightly considered. 



COUGH. 

CoTigli is too often caused by unhealthy lodging. Pew stables are 
perfectly drained and ventilated ; the very great majority are close with 
impurity. No surprise, then, need be exhibited, if the entrance to the 
air-passages should display disease, when an animal, so naturally cleanly, 
is imprisoned in the space man is too thoughtless to keep uncontaminated. 

The larynx is the seat of cough, when the affection exists by itself, 
although the annoyance is often a symptom of some other derangement, 
and may then spring from laryngeal sympathy with some comparatively 
remote organ. It may arise from a very trivial cause, as teething ; or 
it may be a sign attendant on the worst of disorders, as farcy and 
glanders. Broken wind, roaring, laryngitis, bronchitis, chronic diseases 
of the lungs, stomach, bowels, worms, etc. etc., all are attended by 
cough, which is more frequently present as a symptom than as a disease. 
Hot stables, coarse and dusty provender, raijk bedding, and irregular 
work, are the general provocatives of cough, as a distinct affection. 

The name is evidently derived from the noise which constitutes the 
chief symptom of the disorder. Cough consists in spasm of all the 



100 



COUGH. 



muscles of expiration. The air is violently expelled, and an explosive 
sound is the consequence. During this spasm, the soft palate is raised, 
and the breath is allowed to pass through the mouth as well as through 
the nostrils. The horse, as a rule, being able only to respire through 
the nostrils. 

The characteristic noise is generally annoying to the master. Warmth, 
however, is popularly esteemed the cure for cold. The horse proprietor, 
therefore, thrusts his animal into an abode heated by impurity, only to 
find the annoyance aggravated. This fact is soon explained. Stables 
are not heated by fire or by water ; their warmth is entirely derived from 
the fermentation of excrement. Were they well ventilated, efficiently 
built and cleanly kept, these places, having no artificial heat, must be 
cold; but the owner loves warmth; it feels so comfortable; it is so 
nice 1 He does not inquire if it is derived from the right source ; he 




THE ACT 0? COUGHING. 



hates the bother of investigating. Nothing can be proper if you are to 
consult medical men 1 They talk and discuss, but no good comes of 
their verbosity 1 And by such sayings, the horse proprietor blinds his 
judgment, permitting to continue the evil which ignorance institutes. 
Chronic cougli cannot, when thus treated, amend. It continues till the 
membrane covering the larynx be thickened and morbidly sensitive ; then 
the cough is an appendage to the life, and roaring is its companion. 

For the cure of chronic cough, scald and crush the oats, damp the 
hay, and give thin gruel or linseed tea for drink. At the same time see 
that the air is pure : the human nose is a sufficiently good test of at- 
mosphere — that of the stable should not smell of horses, or of any taint 
whatever. If the ventilation is good, the drainage clear, and the bed- 
ding clean, the interior of a stable should be as odorless as any lady's 
apartment. 



LARYNGITIS. 101 

Cough, or the noise which accompanies stages of different disorders, 
will be described as the various affections of which it is a symptom are 
passed before the reader. Chronic cough, or the sound that follows a 
draught of cold water, and is heard when the horse quits the stable for 
the open air, is most distressing. It is a constant accompaniment during 
the commencement of a journey, and requires that the food and lodging 
should be looked to. Clothe warmly, and give half a pint of the follow- 
ing, in a tumbler of cold water, thrice daily : — 

Extract of belladonna (rubbed down in a pint 

of cold water) One drachm. 

Tincture of squills Ten ounces. 

Tincture of ipecacuanha Eight ounces. 

Mix. 

If no beneficial change be witnessed, try the subjoined : — 

Barbadoes tar (or common tar if none other 

be at hand) Half an ounce. 

Calomel Five grains. 

Linseed meal A sufficiency. 

Mix, and give as one ball, night and morning. 

Should no improvement result, the next may be substituted : — 

Powdered aloes One drachm. 

Balsam of copaiba Three drachms. 

Cantharides Three grains. 

Common mass A sufficiency. 

Mix, and give first thing in the morning. 

A bundle of cut grass, every day, has done much good in the spring; 
so, also, has a lump of rock salt placed in the manger, during any season 
of the year. The horse, however, should be observed. If it eat the 
litter, no straw, during the daytime, should cover the stall; and, at 
night, a muzzle should be fixed upon the animal. The cough must be 
more than of a simple character which does not vanish before the pro- 
posed measures are exhausted. Cut roots, also, are beneficial during 
this disease. The hay should not be abundant, and should always be 
moistened. But, above all things, attend to the drainage and ventila- 
tion of the stable. 

LARYNGITIS. 

The common cause of this disorder is foul stables. When we see the 
animal associated with the nobleman in his pride, and linked as the will- 
ing slave of the merchant for his profit, it does seem strange that a crea- 
ture, thus connected, should be subject to disease from scant and tainted 
lodging. When we consider the subject from another point of view, and 



102 



LARYNGITIS. 



regard the eautiful frame-work, animated by the affectionate disposition 
of the horse, it sounds more than cruel, to say the most valuable and 
amiable assistant man has on earth dies neglected in age, and, during 
the vigor of its prime, encounters disease from the niggard provision 
made for its welfare. The devotion of a life ought to entitle the laborer 
to breathing space, after the labor of the day has ended. But noblemen, 
professional men, merchants, tradesmen, mechanics, all sin in this respect 
alike. The horse, when not toiling, is pushed away into the narrowest 
possible limits. The prisoner is permitted only to breathe a limited 
quantity of the air which nature has supplied in so great abundance and 
in such purity. That quantity must, from the time of close confinement, 
be frequently respired during the night ; and, when the air of the place 
has become hot and heavy, the quadruped, at the command of its attend- 
ant, quits its abode for the cold atmosphere without the walls. 

The pure air which circulates about our globe is certainly much to 
be preferred to the close interior of the stable. Yet, to the larynx, in 
some measure accustomed to the last, a sudden draught of the first is the 
almost certain source of disease. It acts as a stimulant upon a part 
rendered delicate by abiding in a morbid medium. It operates violently 
upon a structure which had almost become familiarized with impurity. 
Inflammation is the result, and laryngitis is established. 

The symptoms are broadly marked and prominently characterized. 
Dullness is present. There is a slight enlargement, which may be ob- 
served externally, and over the region of the 
larynx. The most distant attempt to handle 
the throat produces energetic resistance. The 
head is carried awkwardly, as though the neck 
were "stiff." A short cough is frequently to 
be heard almost at every inspiration. At 
the same time, there is often to be detected 
a hoarse sound, which becomes a sort of 
grunt, when the ear is placed against the 
trachea. The breath is hurried and catch- 
ing; the pulse is full and throbbing; while 
the nasal membrane approaches to a scarlet 
hue. 

The pulse requires the first attention. It 
must be rendered less frequent and more 
soft, by drachm doses of tincture of aconite 
root in wineglasses of water, which should 
be repeated every half hour. This is better than blood-letting, as laryn- 
gitis is to be most dreaded because of its tendency to assume the chronic 




THE BTEAMINQ-BAO. 

For a fuU description see p. 85. 



LARYNGITIS. 103 

form. This tendency venesection favors ; therefore, save under profes* 
sional advice, refrain from bleeding. 

After the pulse, the breathing next demands our care. Warmth and 
moisture are curative and pleasant to an inflamed surface. Procure the 
steaming-bag, and keep it almost constantly applied. The steaming-bag 
in laryngitis is of the first importance. A day's delay in its use may so 
aggravate the disorder as to oblige the resort to tracheotomy. 

Should the steaming apparatus appear to distress the animal, it must 
be used only for a limited period, and be reapplied after its effect has 
subsided. To aid its operation, some soft hay must be obtained. Soak 
this in boiling water and fix it upon the throat, by means of an eight- 
tailed bandage, a representation of which is given below. 




EIGHT-TAILED BANDAGE. 

A piece of stout canvas or flannel, one yard and a quarter long, and nine inches wide, is procured. 
Three slits are to bo made at either end; each should be a quarter of a yard deep. This is placed round 
the throat and the ends are tied, four in front of, and four behind, the ears. 

So soon as the animal appears capable of enduring interference, the 
appended drink should be given thrice daily. While administering it, 
watch the horse with the utmost attention. If the slightest inclination 
to cough be exhibited, immediately lower the head, or the liquid may, 
during the spasm, be drawn down the windpipe. It is far better to lose 
much physic than to kill one animal. It will, generally, be more readily 
swallowed, if made blood warm : on no account should the twitch be used 
or the jaws be forced widely asunder. The neck of the bottle should be 
inserted into the corner of the mouth, and the quadruped should be per- 
mitted to use its discretion as to the time occupied before each gulp is 
swallowed. 

Infusion of squills Two ounces. 

Infusion of ipecacuanha .... Two ounces. 

Infusion of aconite Half an ounce. 

Extract of belladonna One drachm, rubbed down with a 

pint of warm water. 
Mix, and give thrice daily. ' 

The lodging should be a cool, well-aired and thickly-littered loose 
box. The legs ought to be bandaged and the body fully clothed. The 
food, during the violence of the disorder, must consist only of well-made 
gruel. It may be untouched; but, nevertheless, it must be changed, 
thrice daily, for no one can tell when the appetite may return. 



104 



LARYNGITIS. 



The signs of the disease becoming worse are, increased noise in the 
breathing ; the respiration and pulse quicken ; the cough is suppressed ; 
the nasal membrane changes to a leaden hue; the standing becomes 
unsteady ; the horse moves about ; partial sweats break forth, etc. 

The symptoms of improvement are, the membrane becoming paler, or 
more natural in color; the cough growing freer or louder; a white, 
thick discharge flowing from the nostrils ; the breathing, also, is easier 
and less noisy ; together with the general demonstrations of health. 

Then a little moist and succulent food may be allowed, but nothing 
harsh or fibrous should be presented. When the amendment is con- 
firmed, a seton, or, in other words, a piece of tape, may be put between 
the skin and flesh, in the place indicated by one of the next engravings. 

The seton should be moved daily, and ought to be kept in so long 
only as is necessary for the secretion of healthy pus. That object being 
obtained, cut off one of the knots, and by pulling at the other, withdraw 
the agent. Some slight alteration is next made in the solidity or dry- 
ness of the food ; and then the neck or throat is blistered, the size and 
extent of the blister being indicated in a subjoined illustration. 





A 8ET0N IN THE THROAT OF A HORSE. 



I 

J; 

A HORSE WITH THE THROAT BLISTERED. 



The action of the vesicatory having subsided, the natural food may be 
returned to, only with certain cautions. The hay must be shaken out, 
to remove dust, and it should also be picked, to take away any harsh 
substances, pieces of stick, or thistle leaves. Then, the fodder being 
perfectly clean, should be sprinkled with water and allowed to remain 
soaking, at least six hours prior to its being placed before the animal. 
The oats, likewise, should be twice sifted and once examined thoroughly 
by the hand. Afterward, warm water ought to be freely poured upon 
them, and the grain be permitted to soak six hours before being put 
into the manger. 

The popular opinion declares sore throat to be always present during 
laryngitis. That notion springs from the horse always quidding, or re- 




LARYNGITIS, 105 

jecting the pellet it has masticated, while suffering under an attack of 
the last-mentioned disease. The two disorders, however, are distinct; 
likewise the remedies for each are 
separate. The quidding, during lar- 
yngitis, springs from the act of de- 
glutition, obliging the sore and in- 
flamed larnyx to rise and press the 
pellet against the roof of the fauces. 
That act occasions much pain ; hence 
the aversion to swallow solid sub- 
stances. Sore throat is, however, by ^ ^^^^^ ^^ ,^ ^^, „^ ^^„,^^ 
no means the necessary accompani- 
ment of laryngitis. Neither are the bowels invariably confined during 
the disease. It has been known that the purgation existed in such 
energy as to require remedies. Consequently, no absolute plan of treat- 
ment can be laid down. However, depletion should be avoided to every 
extent which may be possible. The chronic form of the malady, conse- 
quent upon debility, is to be much dreaded. Effusion into the mem- 
brane, covering the rim of the larynx and its attendant roaring, is too 
frequently the result of that weakness which is produced by active 
measures. Among the lesser evils are cough, which not unfrequently 
proves but the precursor of more potent ills. Therefore, while laryngitis 
lasts, rather check the fever by gentle measures than resort to antimonials, 
niter, or the host of lowering agents. 

So soon as the case is observed, change the stable : the horse will do 
far better in the open air than in the foul atmosphere which originated 
and must aggravate the disorder. Rain, snow, or frost are more whole- 
some than the polluted warmth man's most humble slave is too often 
doomed to inhale. The roofs of many stables are terribly low; in no 
building of this kind is the covering too high. The welfare of the horse 
seems always sacrified to the imaginary interests of its master. Thus, 
above the stable is built a loft for the hay and a residence for the groom. 
To save expense, the building is raised as small a distance from the 
ground as possible. The height of modern buildings would be by no 
means extravagant, were an entire stable of ordinary dimensions left free 
for a single quadruped to breathe in. A puerile parsimony, however, 
denies the huge lungs of the animal the only food life cannot do without, 
for even a short space. Disease and death consequently soon waste 
treble the money ample accommodation would not have consumed. 
Ignorance is the most expensive quality a proprietor of horse-flesh can 
indulge ; for nature invariably refuses to be made subject to man's 
convenience. 



J06 ROARING. 



ROARING. 



A horse is said to roar when, during progression, he emits any unnatural 
sound. The noise is not exactly of the same intensity in any two animals. 
Some creatures roar so loud as to attract attention from the foot pas- 
sengers; others have so trivial a defect in this particular, that it can 
only be detected after a breathing gallop. In all, however, it materially 
lessens the value. 

It is usual to cough horses suspected of being roarers ; this, however, 
is wrong. The constant pinching of the larynx may induce the affection. 
The cough of a confirmed roarer, however, is peculiar. It consist of a 
double effort ; a spasmodic expulsion of the air, followed by a deep and 
audible inspiration. 

The best mode of detecting a roarer, where exercise is forbidden 
or impossible, is to get a stick and to quietly approach the suspected 
animal. Having reached the head, take a short hold of the halter, and 
all at once display the weapon, at the same time making a pretense as 
though about to use it violently upon the abdomen. The horse in alarm 
will run toward the manger, and, if a roarer, the action will be accom- 
panied by an audible grunt. This proof, taken with the refusal to allow 
the horse to be tried, is generally conclusive ; though by itself the test 
is by no means satisfactory. Many horses that are not roarers will 
sometimes grunt under the emotion of fear. 

Of roaring there are two kinds, acute and chronic. Acute roaring 
is that which is merely symptomatic of a disease. It may be produced 
by the tumor of strangles compressing the larynx ; by the impediment, 
in choking, being situated so high up as to interfere with the breathing ; 
and by many other causes. In these cases remove the excitant, and the 
effect will immediately cease. Acute roaring is, therefore, a very trivial 
affair, excepting so far as it indicates the severity of the complaint, 
which generates the affection. 

Chronic roaring is a very different business. This mostly results from 
the abuse to which a generous animal is subject, during the early period 
of its domestication. A carriage horse may be serviceable, and even 
dashing, when the twentieth year has passed; but the vast majority of 
these animals perish before maturity is reached. A handsome pair of 
Cleveland bays pull some fashionable lady round the park, before their 
bones are formed or the teeth perfected. The animals have also to take 
their mistress the circle of morning calls, and to be smartly stopped short 
at the door of every house she visits, while their sinews are still soft and 
yielding. They have to "go faster," when their mistress is in a hurry, 
and have to wait her pleasure when she is disposed to linger. They 



ROARING. 



107 



have to do all this, while their bodies are distorted by the bearing-rein , 
the balance of their frames being violently made to conform to the 
capricious notions of modern fashion. For the illustration of this sub- 
ject, an animal, with a head rather well put on, has been chosen. The 
engraving represents a horse undergoing the torture of the bearing-rein. 
The next illustration exhibits the horse carrying its head as it would, 
were it free to exercise a choice. The reader is not asked which delinea- 
tion looks the best. Any appeal to his taste is forborne, because the 
generality of eyes are perverted by the dictates of custom. 





A horse's head pulled up bt thb 

BKARING-REIN. 



A horse's head ■VnTHOUT THB BEAEINQ-RBIM. 



But he is asked to inspect the representations. Let him look well 
and long at them ; then declare which appears most at ease. Let his 
heart instruct his eyes, and, to its teaching, let him subject his liking; 
for there can be no beauty where constraint is perceptible. In the most 
vigorous of the ancient statuary repose may be absent, the muscles may 
be strained and the attitude violent ; still all the parts balance. "Yes," 
it may be replied, "but in the Elgin marbles the horses' heads are thrown 
back." So they are ; but not fixed back. The horses are ridden without 
bridles. The elevation of the head, therefore, denotes spirit, and repre- 
sents no more than the action of a moment. The modern carriage 
horse, whether galloping, trotting, or standing still, always has the head 
in one attitude, save when the muzzle is thrown into the air to ease, for 
an instant, the pained angles of the mouth, inhumanly tugged at by the 
bearing-rein. 

Which of the foregoing engravings looks most at ease ? Does not 
the fashionable horse appear suffering constraint and torture ? The face 
is disguised and concealed by the harness ; but enough is left visible to 
suggest the agony compulsion inflicts. "Pride," says the proverb, "has 
no feeling." Therefore, no expectation is formed of any appeal to the 
fashionable circles ; but by the ignorance of the public is this barbarity 



108 



ROARING. 



licensed. Were the mass properly informed, the hooting of the popu- 
lace would soon drive fashion into a more humane usage. 





THE HEALTHY LARYNX. 

1. The thyro-hyordeus muscle. 

2. The cricothyroideua muscle. 

3. The arytenoideus muscle. 

4. The crico-arytenoideus posticus muscle. 
a. a. The thyroid bone. 

A. The epiglottis (a cartilage.) 

B. The arytenoid cartilages. 

C. The thyroid cartilage. 

D. The cricoid cartilage. 

E. E. The commencement of the trachea. 



THE EFFECT PRODUCED BY THE BEARINO-REIir. 

o. The healthy arytenoideus muscle. 

6. The healthy crico-artenoideus posticus muscle. 

A. The arytenoideus muscle paralyzed and par- 

tially absorbed by the constant use ol the 
bearing-rein. 

B. The crico-arytenoideus posticus muscle ren- 

dered pallid, and deprived of power by the 
use of the bearing rein. 



The left engraving represents the larynx in a state of health. The 
larynx is the most sensitive organ in the body. If a crumb of bread, a 
particle of salt, or a drop of water "go the wrong way," or enter the 
larynx, everybody has felt the convulsive coughing that immediately 
ensues. Yet this larynx, so exquisitively sensitive, and so resentful of 
the lightest touch, is forced out of place and shape by the adoption of 
the bearing-rein. The whole weight of the head is made to press against 
the larynx ; the action of the part is stopped ; certain muscles are thrown 
out of use. Now, doom a part to constant rest, and paralysis soon 
results. This is exactly what follows the often long stoppage of that 
freedom which is necessary to the health of any structure. Certain of 
the muscles are absorbed; they lose their bulk and part with their color; 
their function is destroyed: the consequence is, the horse becomes a 
confirmed and an incurable roarer. 

So fearful a result, as a life of anguish to any creature, might be 
thought sufl&cient to amend a triviality like the whim of fashion. Still, 
sad as that consequence is, it is not all which this folly engenders. 

The larynx, sensitive and delicately constructed, is formed upon dif- 
ferent pieces of cartilage. This substance is slowly organized and very 
yielding. The structures of the youthful horse's frame are not con- 



ROARING. 



109 




TBTB TBACHEA AND LARYNX DIS- 
TORTED THROUGH THE CONSTANT 
USE OF THE BEARINO-REIN. 



firmed. All are soft, especially a substance naturally semi-elastic. The 
bearing-rein forces the head upon the neck ; the larynx thereby is com- 
pressed. It assumes strange forms, when it is forced from its natural 
position. As maturity arrives, the various 
structures harden. Then distortion of the 
larynx becomes fixed. This organ has been 
taken from the bodies of old animals, of the 
shape here depicted. The morbid specimen, 
from which the following was copied, is, un- 
fortunately, too common, as the late Professor 
Sewell clearly demonstrated. But, what a 
price is this to pay for fashion — to sit for 
hours behind a noble creature, whose exer- 
tions are adding to our pleasure, and at the 
same time to be entailing deformity upon the 
animal ! Physical soundness is of far more 
importance to the horse than to the human 
being. The value of the quadruped, its man- 
ner of life, its kind of treatment, the sufficiency of its food, and the com- 
parative comfort of its lodging, — all are regulated by the soundness of 
its body. 

There are those who assert roaring is no injury to the powers of a 
horse. Certain animals, to be sure, can hunt and keep a good pace, 
although thus afflicted; but Nimrod (as the well-known, late sporting 
writer called himself) soon found out to his cost that all roarers were 
not fit to ride across country. The writer has seen a sailor, deprived of 
one leg, dance a hornpipe with wonderful agility ; but it would be folly, 
therefore, to say sailors were not injured as dancers by the loss of a 
limb. That which impedes the free passage of air to the lungs must be 
a rather serious detriment to exertion. The 
cab proprietors of London, who cannot 
afford to purchase very sound animals, and 
then to let them out at so much per day to 
strange drivers, have discovered a way to 
prevent the noise generally made by roarers. 
This end is attained by placing a pad under 
a portion of the harness. In the following 
engraving this pad is indicated by a white 
mark; though in reality it is so colored as 
to blend with the coat of the horse. It 

presses upon the nostrils near to their openings, and by thus limiting 
the extent of their expansion, by controlling the space through which 




TEE CABMAN'S EEMBDT FOR EOARINO. 



110 CHOKING. 

the air has to pass, it also commands the quantity of atmosphere which 
is inspired. Thus the bulk of air is regulated to the diminution of the 
respiratory organs. The horse breathes freer, and no noise is made 
during the act. Yet, although such a contrivance may do very well for 
a London cab, the pace of which is regulated by Act of Parliament, it 
evidently is unsuited to the field, where everything depends on the 
capacity of the lungs, and nothing upon the sound made during in- 
spiration. 

Other causes are mentioned by different writers as provocatives of 
roaring, besides tight reining. Some of these, like thickening and ulcer- 
ation of the membrane lining the larynx, are the after consequences 
of acute disease, and, as such, are to be prevented only by judicious 
treatment during the existence of the primary disorder. Among other 
causes, bands of coagulable lymph in the trachea, and congenital de- 
formity, are too rare to deserve the attention they have received. 

There is one consolation, however, connected with the subject which 
breeders may accept with confidence. Roaring is not necessarily heredi- 
tary. There is, moreover, a caution, which, associated with roaring, 
may be given to purchasers. When trying a horse at the top of its 
speed, never hold in the reins tightly. By so doing, you draw the head 
upon the neck, compress the larynx, and may make almost any animal, 
however sound, "roar like a bull." Rather wait till the animal has 
stopped. Then dismount, place your ear against the windpipe, and, if 
the horse is a roarer, the deep inspirations necessary to tranquilize the 
system will inform you plainly enough of the fact. 

CHOKING. 

Gentlemen have something to answer for, when they employ the know- 
ing and the ignorant as grooms about their stables. The writer wishes 
women would undertake to tend on horses. The animal requires no 
service that the female strength would not be equal to, while the female 
mind would soon comprehend and appreciate the gentleness of the quad- 
ruped. The timidity of the equine race would meet with womanly sym- 
pathy ; and no one can have observed the attachments which spring up 
between the female and domesticated creatures, but must in heart have 
confessed that the care of the stable was, as much as the watching of 
the sick-room, especially woman's province. , 

The foolish fellows, now congregated about a mews, are constantly 
longing for something which shall magically do their work for them. 
They have a firm belief in charms and an utter hatred of labor. They 
sigh for some spell which shall marvelously improve the appearance of 



CHOKING. Ill 

their master's property without exertion on their parts. Their pride 
centers in the blooming coats of their charges. They have a large con- 
fidence in all sorts of condition balls. Such secrets constitute the mys- 
tery of their craft. As a general rule, the faith is proportioned to the 
strength of the ingredient. Arsenic is, by the lower order of stable 
keepers, contemplated with positive love. Yitriol, in the uneducated 
groom, engenders the warmth of passion. Niter breeds delight; and 
confidence is, by the better sort of horse attendants, bestowed on any 
filth or trash. Raw tobacco has some repute; but the ashes of the 
weed, collected and wrapped in several papers, are much more esteemed 
in the generality of stables. Half a pint of human urine, forced down 
the cleanly throat of the horse, is not an unfrequent benefit bestowed 
upon the animal; but, happily, this specific is recognized only by the 
more learned of the class. Of all things, however, to amend condition, 
perhaps, a raw egg driven into the horse's oesophagus, before any food 
has been consumed, may be honored by the most universal regard. 

Nevertheless, be the condition-worker what it may, the groom gen- 
erally keeps his own counsel. Arsenic and vitriol are commonly favorites 
with agricultural carters, who poison their horses with the intention of 
over-much kindness. Tobacco ashes and eggs are popular with the 
more refined of the order. Both classes, however, are too self-confident 
and too ignorant to have any fear of consequences. With the groom, 
the egg is thrust into the fasting gullet. Its size excites the contracti- 
bility of the muscular fiber ; the substance is soon grasped by the living 
tube with spasmodic tenacity. There it is retained. The symptoms con- 
sequent upon choking" are soon exhibited ; but the groom looks on un- 
moved. At first, he thinks the evidence of agony is proof in favor of his 
charm ; subsequently he resolves, with the cunning of ignorance, " not 
to split upon hisself." 

Now, in a case of this description, never depend upon any report you 
may have received. Recollect choking may spring from two opposite 
causes. The symptoms may result from disease, as strangles ; or they 
may arise from any tumor pressing against the respiratory channel. In 
that instance, however, remove the cause, and the effect will cease. Of 
genuine choking, during health, there remain two sorts: the high and 
the low choke. Thus, if the substance has become fixed in the pharynx, 
or has only passed six inches down the oesophagus, the symptoms are 
urgent. The remedy must be at hand, else the life is quickly lost. 

In the high choke the head is raised ; saliva bedews the lips ; a dis- 
charge soils the nostrils; the eyes are inflamed and watery; the coun- 
tenance is haggard ; the breathing audible ; the muscles of the neck are 
tetanic ; the flanks heave ; the body is in constant motion ; the fore legs 



112 



CHOKING. 



paw and stamp ; the hind legs crouch and dance ; perspiration breaks 
forth; every movement expresses agony: wherefore, if relief be not 
quickly afforded, the horse falls and dies of suffocation. 




THE HIGH CHOKE. 



The veterinary surgeon should attend such a case, prepared to perform 
tracheotomy, which sometimes is absolutely necessary, before anything 
intended to remove the obstruction can be attempted. The operation, 
in this case, is designed to be no more than temporary ; therefore, the 
use of Mr, Gowing's tracheotomy tube is here decidedly in its. proper 
place. It can be inserted ; a few moments after it can be removed, and 
leave behind no loss of substance to be supplied or to retard recovery. 

The balling-iron, after tracheotomy is accomplished, should be fixed 
in the mouth and the hand then introduced. Sometimes the impacted 
substance can be felt, but cannot be grasped. In this last case, a rough 




AN EXTEMPOmZED HOOK TO BELIEVE EIOH CHOKING. 



hook is to be extemporized out of any wire which may be at hand. It 
should be of the shape indicated in the preceding engraving, and of suf- 
ficient length to reach behind the obstruction. The hook is to be gently 
worked into its situation, and, with a sudden jerk, the foreign body is to 
,be removed from the oesophagus. 

Occasionally, the substance is so firmly embraced as not to permit any 
instrument to pass beside it. Sulphuric ether must then be inhaled, in 
the hope of thus overcoming the spasm. The ether, however, does not 



CHOKING. 113 

in every instance prove successful ; and, as an egg, probably, alone could 
be of sufficient size to resist all the measures adopted for its removal, a 
large darning-needle must then be procured. That, being first armed 
with a piece of strong twine, must be driven through the skin and made 
to enter the globular impactment. There is no danger of injuring nerves 
or arteries while doing this; all vessels are pushed on one side by the 
enlargement, caused by the choking substance. The integrity of the 
shell being destroyed, the egg may easily be broken by external pressure. 
Another plan proposed, is to insert a fine trocar, and draw off the con- 
tents of the egg. Either method would answer, but it is always well 
to wound the lining membrane of the oesophagus as little as may be 
possible. 

The employment of the cow probang has been advocated ; the egg 
to be broken, if this recommendation is adopted, by the employment of 
the whalebone stilet. The oesophagus of the cow and horse, however, 
are of such different construction, that he must be a very bold or a very 
ignorant person who dare employ an instrument made for the first, to 
remove an obstruction within the gullet of the last. 




THE COW PROBANG, USED TO BREAK AN EGG. 

An old and hardened ball may provoke this accident ; but then the 
impactment is not complete, because such substances are seldom of a 
perfect round. The sides are opened, and the obstruction is, therefore, 
more easily removed. Horses are not like the bovine race, so greedy as 
to swallow potatoes or small turnips, without mastication. Besides, 
man's favorite is more under domestication, and, therefore, less exposed 
to such accidents. 

When the choking occurs low down, or within the thoracic portion of 
the oesophagus, the symptoms are less urgent. The animal ceases to 
feed. If water is attempted to be swallowed, it returns by the nostrils. 
The countenance expresses anguish; but the head is not held erect, 
neither are the muscles of the neck spasmodically contracted. Saliva 
flows from the mouth, and a copious discharge runs from the nose. The 
breathing is labored ; but it is seldom noisy. The back is roached, the 
flanks tucked up, and the horse often stands as if desirous of elevating 
the quarters. 

After two or three days, (for the low choke may continue such a 
period,) the accumulation of wind within the abdomen becomes excessive ; 



lU CHOKING. 

the breathing quickens ; the pulse fails, and the animal (if not relieved) 
perishes from suffocation, induced by tympanitis. 

For low choke more time than nature allows, when the impediment is 
situated near the mouth, may be occupied. No hurry nor any speedy 
remedy is required. Give oil, by the quarter of a pint, every hour. In 
the intermediate half hours give strong antispasmodics, using the horse 
probang after every dose of the latter. Sulphuric ether, two ounces ; 
laudanum, two ounces; water, half a pint, will constitute the proper 
drench. Should the whole be returned, chloroform must be administered, 
by inhalation, till total insensibility results. Then, the head being ex- 
tended, the probang should be introduced, and gentle but steady pressure 
made to force the obstruction onward. If success comes early, it is easily 
welcomed ; but it is well not to expect success before the expiration of 
twenty minutes. When movement is felt, do not increase the force. 



Ss'Vv^ 




THE LOW CHOKE. 



Maintain a steady pressure, never relaxing and never augmenting the 
power exerted. Drive the substance slowly before you, but do not, by 
sudden energy, risk either the provocation of spasmodic action or a 
rupture of the oesophagus. 

Before using the probang, always calculate the length of the whale- 
bone, so as to judge when the end has nearly entered the stomach. It 
is always well, if possible, to avoid forcing the end of the probang through 
the cardiac opening, as the termination of the oesophagus is called. The 
muscular fibers here are sti'ongly developed, and are formed to resist the 
passage of any substance out of the stomach. To be sure, the animal is 
under the influence of chloroform ; but that powerful agent seems more 
particularly to exert its action upon the voluntary muscles ; whereas, the 
cardiac orifice js guarded by white, involuntary muscular fiber. 



RUPTURE AND STRICTURE OF THE (ESOPHAGUS. 115 

A few days subsequent to the removal of the obstruction, no matter 
where it may have been situated, feed on soft-boiled food — not bran 
mashes; and in case of roots not being at hand, sustain the life with 
smoothly-made gruel. Let the animal be observed, when watered. 
Should the liquid be returned by the nostrils, injury to the lining mem- 
brane of the oesophagus is indicated ; stricture may then be anticipated. 
Though it be not probable that any medicine will now be beneficial, 
nevertheless, as an experiment, administer, thrice daily, four ounces of 
water in which four grains of chloride of zinc have been dissolved. 

Such is a true and brief history of the terrible mishaps that result 
from the mingled knowingness and ignorance which characterize the 
majority of grooms. A good or simple lad would be sadly out of place 
in a modern stable, though the writer should recommend the employment 
of such to become more general. The tricks and arts of professed grooms 
are all worthless or injurious. To such men, however, is the timid horse 
intrusted ; and so much are our minds enslaved by custom, that the hint 
only of employing women in the stable will, no doubt, be received with 
general indignation. Let us, however, endeavor to view the matter 
without prejudice. Women work in the fields ; women fill the situations 
of men as domestic servants ; women carry heavy loads ; women, on the 
continent, perform the duties of men ; women commonly tend an animal 
of inferior intelligence, the cow ; women are subordinate to men only 
where strength is concerned. In the stable no strength is required. 
Courage, even, is out of place there. Gentleness is the only quality im- 
perative, and gentleness so habitual that it never will alarm timidity. 
This attribute seems to reside in the feminine mind ; and, however opposed 
it may be to habit, the author cannot but lament the barrier which pre- 
vents the horse from becoming known to its natural attendant. 

RUPTURE AND STRICTURE OF THE (ESOPHAGUS. 

The gullet or oesophagus of the horse is, perhaps, the most compact 
and delicate structure in a beautiful body. Its mucous lining membrane is 
thrown into minute folds, thereby announcing to the studious anatomisr 
the degree of extension the tube was designed to endure. Its exterior is 
enveloped by a large mass of cellular tissue, by which means the inde- 
pendence of its motion is secured ; it will permit of less violence than 
almost any other part. Small as its channel and delicate as its lining 
Tuembrane are, the tube is amply large and strong enough for a creature 
which masticates long before it deglutates once, and which is by nature 
forbidden to regurgitate. 

However, stable-men seek not to understand but love to master the 



]16 RUPTURE AND STRICTURE OF THE (ESOPHAGUS. 

quadruped intrusted to their charge. The butt-end of a carter's whip is 
a favorite resort with these people, whether serving some farmer or 
acting as grooms to some lord. When any mighty specific happens to 
stick in its passage to tlie stomach, the butt-end of the whip is employed 
to drive the obstinate charm onward. Should the obstruction be situated 
low down, the whip is neither small enough nor pliable enough to touch 
the offending matter. Should the choking mass be lodged high up, by 
compelling it beyond the reach of human hand, positive injury is done, 
and ultimate relief is rendered very problematical indeed ; however, 
ignorance is not often to be deterred by difficulties. As the passage 
narrows, greater violence is resorted to ; the men push and strive till at 
last the whip moves onward, and the stable-men congratulate each other 
upon " all being right at last." 

When the whip seemed to yield, something more than the obstruction 
gave way ; the walls of the canal were ruptured ; an almost inevitable 
death then awaits the unfortunate animal. The food is rejected ; drink 
is refused ; the creature stands motionless, the picture of horror ; it 
seems to comprehend and to await its approaching fate. The neck 
begins to swell ; the swelling creeps on till it invests the entire body. 
Gas has found entrance into the cellular tissue, through the divided 
gullet. Death at last ensues, because the inflation impedes the vital 
functions, and, being corruptive, is incompatible with the preservation 
of living organism. 

More often, however, the whip only tears the internal membrane ; the 

obstruction has been dislodged and removed, but a worse evil has been 

created. The horse for a time refuses food. 

The dilated cesophagrus or sac and the anxious master wonders "what can be 

Buperior to the stricture. 

the matter 1" At last the pain may cease, the 
appetite return, for nature may strive to repair 
the damage. The whip usually tears a flap 
of membrane, which, obedient to the laws of 
gravity, hangs pendant within the oesophagus. 
Our common parent, however, does not, after the 
human pattern, repair the evil which man induces. 
The stricture. |||f" She has uo mortal hand wherewith to restore 

the rent membrane to its place. The sides of 
the wound, however, strive to unite, and by the 
The tube of its natural size, ^atc whcu this juuctiou is accomplished, the 
sTRicTOKE OF THE (EsorHAGus. mucous mcmbrauc being inelastic, the magni- 
tude of the canal is seriously diminished. Na- 
ture seems to feel that the chief strain of deglutition will be upon this 
lessened spot, which, therefore, she endeavors. to support and strengthen. 




RUPTURE AND STRICTURE OF THE (ESOPHAGUS. 



in 



Lymph is deposited about the place, till ultimately a firm and solid 
stricture is formed. 

This, however, though bad enough, is not the worst. Lymph, after a 
time, has a tendency to contract. With the diminution of the external 
ring, of course the internal canal decreases ; it is strained at every 
meal ; but straining only provokes its contractive power, till at length 
hardly the best comminuted morsel could pass the opening. Such, how- 
ever, rarely enters the strictured oesophagus ; the difl&culty of deglutition 
renders it impossible for the appetite to be appeased. No sooner is the 
food placed before the animal than, because of hunger, induced by pro- 
longed starvation, it is bolted; almost unprepared by mastication and 
insalivation. Nourishment in that state cannot pass the stricture ; it 
lodges above the contraction; still, hunger impels the horse to eat on. 
It does so till the oesophagus becomes distended. Gullets have been 
taken from animals, stretched till they are thinner than the paper upon 
which this book is printed, and so much enlarged as to admit a boy's 
clenched fist. 

After the affection reaches this stage, the swollen oesophagus, when 
loaded, presses upon the trachea and 
larynx so severely as materially to im- 
pede the breathing, and it is at this period 
that instinct develops a strange artifice. 
The horse has no power to vomit; the 
fibers of the healthy oesophagus impel 
but in one direction ; still, no sooner has 
the gullet become distended than the 
impaired breathing creates a desire to 
remove the obstruction. The chin is 
lowered ; the crest is thus curved to the 
utmost, when the muscles of the neck are 
brought into violent action, and the im- 
pacted provender is shot back through 
the mouth and nostrils. 

This description reads bad enough, but 
regard for veracity obliges the statement 

that is not yet complete. Hunger, when excessive, causes the stomach 
ro pour forth its acid secretion ; this effect is produced by the sight of 
provender ; but the gastric juice not being given food to act upon, passes 
into the intestines ; there it provokes the most intense spasm ; so that it 
is common to see the hind legs raised to violently strike the aching belly, 
while the labored breathing announces that abstinence from any kind of 
exertion has become a primary necessity of life. 




THE HORSE ENDEAVORING TO CAST TJP THE 
PEOVENDEE WITH WHICH THE SAC OF A 
STKICTURED (ESOPHAGUS IS LOADED. 



118 RUPTURE AND STRICTURE OF THE (ESOPHAGUS. 

The only palliative for so pitiable a condition is carefully-prepared 
food — ^ruel and such substances given in small quantities at a time. 
The horse, however, when it requires such support, generally has been 
so much lowered by disease as not to be worth its ordinary keep. No 
one cares merely to prolong the equine life ; the animal is only permitted 
to live because of the profit man can make out of its labor ; yet, for the 
full meanness of the last motive, let the horse proprietor seek a better 
class of servants for his grooms. Let him abolish the stunted, long- 
faced, narrow-headed compounds of mischief and of treachery which are 
now the common inhabitants of every mews. Before doing so, however, 
he must amend himself; he must be prepared to teach by example; the 
present groom only fulfills the wishes and panders to the pride of the 
master. Were a higher order of stable-men desired, the longing could 
easily be supplied ; but fashion pronounces in favor of the present, natty 
affectations, and men with more solid qualities naturally refuse to compete 
in an arena so unworthily occupied. 

Before quitting this subject, a caution must be given against all pro- 
bangs as at present made. The cow probang is evidently unsuited to 
the equine gullet. The horse instrument has the bell of the cow probang 
attached to a piece of whalebone ; when a nai'row channel is to be 
entered, the bulk of the leading substance is of all importance. That 
which goes in front, not that which lies behind, has then to be con- 
sidered ; so, in spite of the whalebone, the present horse probang is 
nothing more than the cow instrument in disguise. 

The probang intended for the horse should be formed like that em- 
ployed upon the human subject. It should consist of a long slip of fine 
whalebone, having a sponge fixed to one end ; when required, the sponge 
should be thoroughly saturated in water or in oil, (according to the cir- 
cumstances,) then squeezed dry and forced down the oesophagus. The 

The horse probang as at the present made. 



That which should be employed. 

THE HORSE PROBANG, AS IT IS AND AS IT OUGHT TO BE. 

material would adapt itself to every cavity, would fill the largest, but 
could not harm the smallest; would as effectually remove every obstruc- 
tion, but would not be so difficult to retract, if the head should by 
accident pass the cardiac qrifice. 



BRONCHOCELE. 119 



BRONCHOCELE. 

This disease, which entails much suffering upon the human species, 
under the name of " goitre," is, in the horse, a very trivial affair. The 
cause of its orign has not yet been made plain. It is, however, a sign 
that nature suffers in some essential particular. In the sunless depths 
of the valleys about the Alps, it is, with man, a frightful deformity. 
May not the dark and close stables, in which horses too often are con- 
fined, have something to do with its production in these animals ? 

It is an enlargement of a substance anatomically called the thyroid 
gland. This body resides upon the larynx, immediately under the jaw. 
It is occasionally as large as a hen's egg, but seldom is of greater 
magnitude. Its natural size is that of half a chestnut. The enlarge- 
ment appears to occasion no inconvenience, and is only objected to 
because horsemen consider it unsightly. Purchasers, moreover, are 
fastidious about buying an animal which exhibits any unusual develop- 
ment. 

It, however, generally yields to treatment, and the animal need not be 
taken from gentle work during the time occupied by the cure. Let the 
following drink be given night and morning : — 

Iodide of potassium Half a drachm. 

Liquor potassse One drachm. 

Distilled water Half a pint. 

At the periods stated for giving the medicine, rub into the enlarge- 
ment a portion of the annexed ointment. Remember, any of the un- 
guent being left upon the hair is proof positive that suSicient friction 
has not been employed. The ointment can in no way benefit the 
external covering. The object of friction is to get the ointment ab- 
sorbed. This it effects by promoting warmth, and thereby inducing 
dryness, both of which stimulate the pores of the skin to take up outward 
moisture. 

When this is being accomplished, there is no necessity for extraor- 
dinary care or excessive attention. The tumor, which constitutes 
bronchocele, is certainly not endowed with morbid sensibility. Suf- 
ficient force for the purpose in view, therefore, may be safely exerted ; 
but, at the same time, it is always well, where horses are concerned, 
to discard anything approaching to violence. Consequently, exercise a 
proper discretion when employing the following ointment : — 

Iodide of lead One drachm. 

Simple cerate One ounce. 



120 



BRONCHOCELE. 



Supposing the tumor to be present only upon one side, a piece of the 
ointment as large as a hazelnut will be sufficient, if well rubbed in 
each time. Twice the quantity will be necessary when the swelling 




A HORSE WITH BRONCHOCELE. 



is to be seen upon both sides of the neck ; and should the part become 
sore, of course all application must be stopped for the time necessarily 
occupied by the healing process. 



CHAPTER VL 



THE CHEST AND ITS CONTENTS — THEIR ACCIDENTS AND THEIR DISEASE& 



CONGESTION IN THE FIELD. 



It is a dangerous thing to trust a dumb animal to the guidance of an 
ignorant man ; such a person is d'angerous because he does not understand 
that certain preparation adapts vitality to particular usages. A racer 
may be a mysterious creature, about which he dares to think nothing, 




A HORSE PROSTRATE FROM BEING OVERRIDDEN. 



excepting that it is a horse, very beautiful and very fleet ; a hunter, 
in his notion, is any horse running after hounds ; he takes the stable 
favorite out for a morning canter, crosses the hunt, and immediately, 
with no thought of harm, joins the field. For the first few acres a very 
ungentlemanly person may, in a very gruff voice, request him to " hold 
hard and not to ride over the dogs;" but the first three fields passed, 
there is no need of such a caution. The horse, with that perfect aban- 
donment of self which makes its will its master's choice, and converts 
the rider's pleasure into its delight, strains every nerve ; its head is pro- 
truded and its legs outstretched; it struggles hard, but can make no 

(121) 



122 CONGESTION IN THE FIELD. 

\\ ay. Voice, whip, and spur by turns urge the animal onward, but it has 
been taken suddenly from its uses ; the horse thinks not of that, it only 
seeks to gratify the being who for a time has become its ruler. To his 
amusement it devotes itself, and obedient to this idea, it runs, or en- 
deavors to run, till its limbs are with difficulty lifted from the ground ; 
it reels, it falls, and the would-be huntsman stands over a prostrate 
steed. 

The horse has congestion of the lungs. Yes ; but what caused it ? 
Over-exertion, accompanied by a consequent absence of nervous energy. 
The sensibility of the larynx, feeling the exhaustion before the body 
appreciated it, inclined inward ; they prevented the atmosphere from 
oxygenating the blood. Deficient oxygen causes the frame, spite of 
violent exertion, to feel clammy cold. The brain being supplied with 
impure blood, produces temporary insensibility. Vitality seems to be 
contesting with death. 

Now, were a fleam, and some one who understood how to use it, at 
hand, venesection might do good ; neither are to be found ; the animal 
after some time rises, and with difficulty is led to shelter. Country 
opinions always incline to stimulants ; gin and pepper is, in all rural 
districts, a potent horse physic. A dose is administered ; the horse 
seems to amend ; another and another jorum is poured down the animal's 
throat. After the third pdtion it is clear to all the horse is becoming 
worse. Bloody water is soon blown from the nostrils ; partial sweats 
break forth ; the eye assumes a gray appearance ; all at once the depart- 
ing life appears to rally ; the animal seems to walk with a firmer step ; 
but just as this fact has been observed, it falls, and almost without a 
struggle expires. 

Such is a lamentable instance of the general ignorance which prevails 
concerning horses. Firmly as nature may have united man and horse, 
gentility would dissever them ; it is not polite in society to speak of 
man's most patient companion and most faithful slave. Gentility con- 
descends to use animals, but loves to prate only of frivolity. The educa- 
tion of the young, which should be directed by the conversation of the 
matured, is thus neglected ; boys, London boys especially, regard the 
stable as a place to be avoided ; they view horses, not as the gentlest of 
created beings, but as creatures it were a breach of good manners to 
speak of "before ladies." They learn to consider these animals and all 
that concerns them, as subjects to be forgotten the instant " society is 
entered." From the ignorance thus fostered, and from the fashion which 
prefers to talk about trifles to conversing of those matters which consti- 
tute the facts of reality and involve the instruction of the youthful, springs 
that mishap which has been described as congestion of the lungs. 



CONGESTION IN THE STABLE. 123 

A noble animal is thus, by prejudice, denied the benefit which would 
otherwise result from social opinion. Woman, whose gentleness fits het 
for the companionship of the timid horse, is, as by design, kept in per- 
fect ignorance of her lawful possession. The creature is separated even 
from those benefits which would result from the expression of feminine 
sentiment. A being that seeks protection, that with a submission 
amounting to a perfect denial of self, entreats for shelter and begs to 
serve, is handed over to the harshest order of the human race. Much 
more than this, it is transferred to the custody of the ignorant, who view 
its nature as requiring to be subdued, and think they display spirit 
when they treat the most fearful of living creatures as though it were a 
carnivorous brute bent upon ravening and destroying. 

When a horse sinks in the field, bleed if possible ; should the neces- 
sary means not be at hand, a vein may be punctured with a knife, and 
every vein in the body is then turgid with congestion. There is no dif- 
ficulty of seeing where to puncture, and a pint taken at this time does 
more good than a gallon abstracted one hour subsequently. Then cover 
the body ; pull off your own coat of there be any want of clothing ; you 
caused the mischief and should not heed personal nicety when reparation 
is possible. Lead quickly but gently to the nearest stable ; there heap hot 
rugs upon the body ; the desire is to relieve the lungs by determining the 
blood to the surface ; bandage the legs and cover the neck ; warm the stable 
either with fire or by me.ans of tubs full of boiling water. This being 
done, if a chemist lives in the neighborhood, procure one ounce of ether 
and half an once of laudanum, which dose, in rather more than half a 
pint of water, should be given, without any noise or bustle, every half 
hour. Should no chemist be near, take two tablespoonfuls of turpentine, 
which beat up with the yolk of an egg, and give in half a pint of water. 
Place a pailful of cold gruel within easy reach of the horse, and see that 
there is an ample bed under it. These things being done, do not leave 
the place before the fate of the horse is determined, which it invariably 
is before thirty hours have expired ; for the proprietor's presence is the 
only surety that orders are obeyed, where horses and the uninstructed 
are concerned. 

CONGESTION IN THE STABLE. 

This affection mostly attacks debilitated or fat horses. These creatures 
are driven far in a four-wheeled carriage, heavily laden. One animal, of 
small size, has to drag an entire family. Else, the quadruped has to 
journey fast to avoid a shower of rain. The horse is flogged onward. 
A horse, whose motions are quickened by the lasii, is not likely to be 



124 



CONGESTION IN THE STABLE. 



very closely observed. It is much more probable the speed will be 
blamed as laziness, than the laboring life be pitied for exhaustion. Yet, 
when congestion follows, it is proof positive that the powers of nature 
were overtaxed. 

The wretched slave, after the distance is accomplished, is taken from 
the shafts and led into the stable ; it is hardly tied to the manger before 
a sickening sensation seizes on the body. The head hangs down ; the 
furnished rack and manger are not glanced at. This alarms the groom's 
prejudices. At length the man imagines it must be thirst which prevents 
his charge from eating. The attendant hastens for water, but on his 
return he finds the horse blowing ; that is, panting or breathing quickly. 




CONGESTION IN THE STABLE. 



This symptom, which only denotes exhaustion, used to be regarded as 
the forerunner of inflammation of the lungs. Doubtless, it would term- 
inate thus seriously, were nothing done to arrest the progress of the 
affection. The change from extreme labor to perfect rest produces a 
revulsion of the system. The capillaries contract and soon become in a 
congested condition. Not only does this state affect the lungs, -but it is 
present all over the body. Should the pulse be now taken, the artery 
will be round and gorged. The beat may be either quicker or slower 
than most books fix the number at; but it will be very feeble and will 
convey no idea of vital activity. It hardly stirs, suggesting the surging 
of a tranquil summer sea upon a sandy shore. Partial perspirations 
may break forth, and the body may become wet with a fluid of no higher 
temperature than the skin from which it exudes. The feet are cold ; 
the eye is fixed ; the living type of obedience moves not, when com- 
manded ; hearing is lost ; all natural fuoctions appear to be arrested, 
except the breathing; and that being involuntary, nevertheless is evi- 
dently disordered. « 



BRONCHITIS. 125 

If this condition be immediately attended to, it will disappear almost 
as quickly as it was exhibited. Take two ounces each of sulphuric ether 
and of laudanum ; cold water, one pint. Give this drink with caution, 
as the animal to which it is administered is not conscious. Have pa- 
tience with sickness, and the whole will be swallowed ; or the fumes will 
be inhaled and do almost as much good as the imbibition of the fluid. 

The drink being given, do not leave the stable. "Wait by the side of 
the horse, watching the effect of the draught. If in ten minutes the 
horse has not perfectly recovered, or be but partially restored, let another 
similar portion be poured into the body. More will seldom be required ; 
but, notwithstanding, watch for twenty minutes after the last drink, as 
such fits occasionally vanish and reappear. 

The rack and the manger must be emptied. Gruel is all we dare at 
present trust within reach of an exhausted frame. Though the animal 
would eat, solid food must be withheld. The body should be lightly, 
but well clothed; and a pail of gruel should be suspended from the 
manger, so that a heavy head need not be raised high to partake of it. 

The next day the creature, thus treated, may return to its customary 
food and be as well as ever ; but when the animal reached home, should 
the groom have been in a hurry, if company should have been waiting 
fo' dinner, and the horse should be hastily turned into the stall by the 
only servant kept by gentility ; then the congestion is unseen, and any 
disease may follow it. This condition used to be, as fainting in the 
human being once was, treated by the abstraction of blood. But to 
bleed a debilitated horse, is to increase the cause of the affection, which 
it should be the province of physic to destroy. By the stimulant, which 
leaves behind no inflammatory tendency ; by the subtle distillation, which 
speedily traverses the frame, we revive the system and awaken lagging 
nature once more to vital activity. 

When congestion is not noticed in the first instance, and has time to 
become confirmed, the original disorder is invariably swallowed up in 
some greater evil. Pneumonia and pleurisy are the favorite shapes 
which it assumes ; but it has terminated in fatal enteritis. 

BRONCHITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE AIR-PASSAGES. 

This serious affection is, mostly, the consequence of man's neglect. 
The master rides far and fast. He dismounts at some pleasant threshold 
and remains long under the roof. During that time the horse stands 
outside, either shivering in the cold or pelted by the storm. The gen- 
eral treatment seems to say, that life and machinery, being equally sub- 
servient to man's will, are, in fact, the same things in man's regard. 



126 BRONCHITIS. 

Even the wheels and bars of polished iron, however, require care or they 
soon become useless ; the thews and sinews of a living body cannot be 
abused with impunity. So plain a truth should be acknowledged by 
something more than words. Life and functions connect men and ani- 
mals. Their habits may be dissimilar and their food not alike ; but, 
when we consider the wants of each, their liabilities and their diseases, 
the approach to actual sameness becomes almost startling. The man 
who can enjoy himself, without bestowing a serious thought upon the 
unfortunate steed which has carried him hither and will bear him hence, 
deserves to lose the life of which he is so culpably careless. Change the 
places of the two existences. Let the horse be rendered comfortable 
and the man be stationed outside. The result would be the same : the 
man would in that case probably suffer from bronchitis. Does intelligence 
require a more startling evidence of the link which binds master and 
servant while sojourners upon this earth ? 

Bronchitis is indeed a painful malady. Originally situated upon and 
confined to the membrane lining the air tubes, it has an aptitude to in- 
volve the entire contents of the thorax. Being the ailment of mucous 
membranes, it requires cautious treatment. A small blood-letting may 
induce the prostration no tonics can remove ; a slight dose of aloes often 
starts up the purgation no astringents will check. It is agile at metas- 
tisis. It too often leaves behind the evidence of its visitation. Add to 
all this, that though so much to be feared, it does not announce its advent 
with a thundering double knock. It creeps on insidiously, and comes in 
so gradual a form, as if it intended to deceive the groom. The appetite, 
during the primary stage, is often unaffected, nay, is sometimes increased. 
Stable-men have a strong prejudice where feeding is concerned. The 
most educated of the class can imagine nothing more than a slight 
cold, while the corn is only partially consumed. Thus the disease, in 
consequence of delay, mounts into fury, before its presence is fully rec- 
ognized. 

Very rarely is the groom's attention excited during the approach of 
the disorder, or while a short cough simply bespeaks irritation ; while 
the breathing is merely excited ; while the legs are warm ; while the 
mouth is moist, and the nasal membrane only a little deeper in hue than 
is positively consonant with perfect health. No ! The stable-man is 
content while any desire for food remains. Let appetite be quite gone ; 
let the horse be averse to move ; the cough sore, but evidently suppressed 
and painful ; the breathing quick and audible ; the nasal membrane 
violently scarlet ; the mouth hot, dry, and clammy ; the legs and body 
of uneven temperatures — here, cold as ice — there, of a dusty heat. 
When danger cannot be mistaken, and hope has almost fled, then the 



BRONCHITIS. 



12T 




STEAMING APPARATUS TOR HORSES 
WITH BRONCHITIS. 



stable-man creeps to the parlor, with " Please, sir, I wish you would step 
and look at the horse." 

In a case of such a description, abstract no blood. Depletion is 
forbidden, when mucous membrane is dis- 
ordered. The first thing is a large loose 
box. Into this is put the machine repre- 
sented in the annexed engraving. It is a 
portable boiler, having a covering of iron 
wire. The steam, generated by the char- 
coal fire, soon renders the air of the place 
moist and warm. It must be kept boiling 
day and night. It is of more service during 
night than day, and it should be very grad- 
ually withdrawn. 

The water, as it is exhausted in the above 
boiler, should be supplied with more at the 

full temperature. Yety little fire will then keep up the steam, though, 
as the fumes of charcoal are decidedly unhealthy, it is always well when 
those fumes can, by means of a pipe, be conveyed to the outside of the 
building; if that be impossible, let every door and window be left open; 
the necessary admission of air may impoverish the steam, but the vapor 
is too dense to he, entirely dispelled. The steam acts upon the lungs ; 
warm, moist air being soothing and curative to the thorax affected with 
bronchitis. When the apparatus cannot be obtained, the large nose- 
bag should be frequently applied during the day. 

Some scalded hay is also to be fixed under the throat by means of an 
eight-tailed bp,ndage. A macintosh jacket is then laid on the floor, and 
the horse gently led forward till one leg rests within one armhole. The 
opposite leg is to be raised and put through the other opening; the 
cloth is next lifted up and temporarily fixed upon the animal ; after- 
wards, have six pieces of flannel, two three yards long and the entire 




EIGHT-T.ULED BANDAGE FOR RETAINING ANT SUBSTANCE AGAINST THE THROAT OF A HORSB. 



width of the fabric, the others half a yard long and a foot wide. Satu- 
rate three of these with cold water ; having folded the long piece, apply 
it over the back, equally to either side ; the short pieces place upon the 
sides of the chest ; fasten the jacket over the spine. When the flannel is 



128 



BRONCHITIS. 



warm, remove it ; replace it immediately with other flannels, which should 
be ready for this purpose. Do this continuously for at least a couple of 
hours, after which time the flannel may remain on ; but must, on no 
account, be sufi"ered to become dry. The jacket and flannel should be 
worn for a week subsequent to restoration. 
Then prepare the following : 

Burgundy pitch Half a pound. 

Powdered camphor Two ounces. 

Powdered capsicums ........ Half a drachm. 

Melt the pitch. Take the vessel which contains it off the fire ; throw 
in the other ingredients, stir well, and apply while warm to the front of 
the neck, as low as the jacket will permit. 

For bronchitis, consisting principally of aggraved congestion, prepare 




A HORSE DRESSED FOR BRONCHITIS. 



the following drink, and repeat it every half hour, until the pulse has 
regained its tone ; then give the drinks at longer intervals, and ultimately 
reduce them to three during the day, which continue till restoration is 
perfected : — 

Sulphuric ether One ounce. 

Laudanum One ounce. 

Water One pint. 

Should no effect be produced after the third drink, discontinue the 
frequency of the ethereal medicine, and substitute the following : — 

Infusion of aconite Half an ounce. 

Extract of belladonna (rubbed down with one ounce 

of water) Half a drachm. 

Persevere with the above till the pulse amends, when withdraw the 
aconite, but keep on with the belladonna, half a drachm of which may be 



BRONCHITIS. 



129 



added to each dose of the ethereal drink ; which ought to be resumed, 
should amendment ensue upon the administration of the aconite draught. 
Let the food consist entirely of thick gruel. The appetite occasionally 
is unaffected during bronchitis ; but, however pleasant it may be to 
behold a horse masticate, all solids should be withheld, especially during 
the acute stage. Nothing is so injurious to respiration as a loaded 
stomach, and a single meal (if permitted) would speedily aggrayate the 
symptoms of this disease. When the disorder has subsided, food must 
be carefully introduced ; the water should be, as grooms say, "chilled," 
or, in ordinary language, should have the chill removed. Boiled roots 
or crushed and scalded oats should constitute the earliest approach to 
natural diet. Hay should be given with extreme caution, the desire 
being to nourish the body, not to load the stomach. A bundle of grass 
each day may be allowed upon recovery being assured ; and when hay is 
at length presented, mind that for the first month it is thoroughly damped; 
for nothing more retards recovery after bronchitis than the inhalation of 
those dusty particles with which hay too often abounds. 




THE COUGH OF INCURABLE BRONCHITIS. 



When the disorder is to terminate fatally, the proprietor, in the 
majority of instances, speedily learns the fact. The pulse continues 
unamended at first, but soon grows very quick and tremulous ; the breath- 
ing becomes more painful even to the spectator. Every inhalation ap- 
pears to shake the body ; yet, so eager is the desire for air, that the 
haste and violence of the respiration evidently defeat their object. The 
nasal membrane assumes a bluish tint, a foul, bloody froth hangs about 
the nostrils ; the eyes are dull and fixed. The cough is the most dis- 
tressing symptom. It occurs in fits, and during the paroxysms the 
wretched animal reels about. The noise cannot now be restrained ; the 
horse has no strength to struggle with disease. The sound which shakes 

9 



130 



PNEUMONIA. 



the sore lungs and checks the breathing that was already short to suf- 
focation, cannot now be suppressed. It continues until a quantity of 
discolored fluid is ejected from the nostrils, then a brief respite ensues ; 
but, as time progresses, the fits grow more severe and much longer, 
while the strength to endure them even more rapidly decreases. 

It reads sadly, that hundreds of horses have thus perished without 
making any impresssion upon either masters or men. The directions, 
which have been given at some length, will probably be discarded by 
grooms as far too troublesome ; they like the man who can give physic 
to a horse when the animal is sick, and "wants no more bother made." 
The proprietors will object to the expense and the personal superintend- 
ence which is necessitated. Most gentlemen hurry through the st '"^'^ 
as though they were intruders upon their own premises, and expected all 
business there transacted to be dispatched most expeditiously. The 
master, when in the stable, is never at home ; he is generally very much 
abroad ; the groom, if a horse dies, always knew of something which 
must have saved the life, only it wasn't tried ; and to prove his compre- 
hension of the malady, in answer to inquiries, he says, thereby showing 
the real extent of his information, " The horse caught a cold and died 
of an inflammation." The employer commonly follows a system which 
custom approves ; he does not trouble himself to hire a better qualified 
or a less prejudiced attendant for his stables. The place and all that is 
in it continues the same, only it contains one life the less. The lesson is 
thrown away, and all this great suffering in a huge animal has produced 
no more than a passing regret for the pecuniary loss. 



PNEUMONIA.— INFLAMMATION OF THE LUNGS. 

Under this title our grandfathers congregated all affections of the 
lungs. Congestion, bronchitis, pleurisy were all regarded as stages of 




THE COMMENCEMENT OF PNEUMONIA. 

pneumonia. This error, even at the present time, confuses the descrip- 
tions of most authors. True pneumonia is, consequently, now more 



PNEUMONIA. 



131 



rarely encountered ; such a result accords with the knowledge gained by 
anatomical investigation concerning the structure of or the substance of 
the lung. The bronchial tubes constitute a large portion of these organs, 
but their disease is termed bronchitis. The pleura covers the lungs, 
but its inflammation is called pleurisy. The blood is affected during all 
disorders, but the vessels themselves are rarely implicated ; involvement 
of the absorbents constitutes glanders and farcy. Yet, when the tubes, 
covering, veins, arteries, and absorbents are abstracted, there remains 
only cellular tissue ; that structure is not apt to take on inflammation, 
and when it is so implicated, the inflammation of cellular tissue is re- 
garded as rheumatism: consequently, there remains only a species of 
■"''^eral disorder of all the constituents to stand for pneumonia. 

Horses supposed to have perished from pneumonia, not unfrequently, 
when examined after death, present hydrothorax or dropsy of the chest ; 
thus proving the pleura to have been affected. However, such vivid 
descriptions of pneumonia are bequeathed us by our ancestors, that we 
are, to a certain degree, overpowered by the authority of assertion. Too 
many are actually overawed by the positiveness of the dead ; thus, in 
many instances, influenza is treated as inflammation of the lungs ; dropsy 
of the chest, brought on by weakness, naturally ensues. 

When acute pneumonia (as it is called, which really represents a sub- 
acute disorder of all the contents of the lungs) does occur, it is rather 
lingering in its development ; the breathing is labored and slightly 
accelerated ; the pulse is less increased than would be expected ; the 
artery is full, and the beat seems 

driven by some hidden force ^^^;:^5s^"^^^^^§^5?^-^ 

through a gelatinous obstacle; 
it bulges out, and then all is 
still for an interval, after which 
the operation is repeated. The 
horse has lost all spirit, indeed, 
a considerable portion of its con- 
sciousness has evidently depart- 
ed; it stands as though from 
giddiness it feared to fall ; its 
legs are separated and strained 
outward to the furthest limit. 

The head and ears are de- 
jected; the coat rough; the ex- 
tremities cold ; the body without 
warmth ; the visible membranes discolored, and the bowels costive ; in 
short, the animal appears oppressed by some heavy misfortune. Feeling 




THE POSITION ASSUMED BY THE HORSE DURING AN 
AGGRAVATED ATTACK OF PNEUMONIA. 



132 PNEUMONIA. 

Beems half dead ; thus we are warranted in imagining that the attack has 
embraced all the component structures of the lungs, and that it consists 
in no small degree of congestion. 

The general practice is to bleed, and to bleed largely ; to let the 
current run till the animal is on the point of fainting ; then, as bleeding 
always quickens the pulse, more blood is abstracted to lower it ; this not 
answering, the same plan is adhered to. The vein is tapped and the 
liquor drawn, as though the vital fluid were table beer, and the animal 
an inanimate cask. At last, nature resents such repeated depletion. 
No sooner is the fleam struck than weakness is alarmed ; then the eyes 
and nostrils are sponged with cold water, to procure a little more blood ; 
until, at last, the animal dies, as practitioners have said, because the 
horse could not bear bleeding enough ! 

The writer does not advise to destroy the strength, which is now 
essential to surmount disease. Bleed only once, then take no more than 
will afford ease to the sufferer ; if a pint accomplishes that object, a 
pint is sufficient. Be guided neither by the quantity abstracted nor by 
the faltering of the pulse ; watch the head of the animal ; so soon as 
that is raised and the general aspect denotes a sense of life, pin up the 
orifice ; but think twice before you bleed once, and shun the operation 
if it can possibly be avoided, or if the fluid has a thick and black ap- 
pearance, dribbling down the neck, not spirting from the vein. 

"When you first behold the horse, carefully examine it ; place your ear 
to the side ; in health there is only a gentle blowing sound audible ; if 
more than that is heard ; if something within the chest seems to grate or 
suck ; if, in addition, any noise, as of a huge pair of bellows at violent 
work, is detected, make up your mind to a case of pneumonia. ISTo time 

is to be lost ; procure a large and airy loose 

C-S& ^ f~ ^ ^^^ » strew it thickly with tan ; do this, be- 

f'~^^- -W^ '^^fe -i^!''*'^ cause pneumonia has an aptitude 'Uo fall 

V-^"^" " ,^^^«E^^f %f iuto the feet," as grooms say, or, in other 

^^ ^^^S3i^^^\x^^ language, the disease is subject to metastisis, 

ii||ill j|iu|... wIb ^"^^ the inflammation will sometimes quit 

^^pjljjll ;■ ;ij||I tli6 lungs to reappear in the feet ; something 

^HPi|ii~J I soft and cool is most likely to prevent such 

^BKp^rj"°'Hi I |l ^ mishap ; therefore, when the tan is* strewn 

~^^ ^Bpl^~"^ ■ t:^s" upon the floor, moisten it with a watering- 

-^^^^| i[i'; •^""^l;!liJ pJ^'^'^~ pot, and have the iron shoes taken off the 

A STEAMING APPAEATUS. aUimal. 

Place a pail of water within easy reach 
of the horse. Food^ — even gruel — is not now required. If it is winter, 
put a hood upon the head aud throw a loose cloth over the loins and 



PNEUMONIA. 133 

quarters ; then introduce the steaming apparatus, and set it to work with 
all speed, leaving every window and door open, while the vapor is gen- 
erated. The air being loaded with vapor, take off all clothing; but 
give, in the first instance, so soon as it can be procured, the following 
drink : — 

Solution of aconite root Half an ounce. 

Sulphuric ether Two ounces. 

Extract of belladonna (rubbed down in half a pint of 

water) A drachm. 

Repeat this dose three times in the course of the day and once during 
the night, keeping up the steara all the time. Watch the pulse and 
observe the breathing. When the first amends, the quantity of aconite 
may be diminished ; when the last grows easier, the amount of bella- 
donna may be decreased. 

These medicines should be persevered with, increasing the ingredients 
or diminishing them, as the symptoms warrant. Thus, if the pulse prove 
very obstinate, six, or even nine doses of half an ounce of solution of 
aconite in a little water, without other ingredients, may be exhibited in 
the twenty-four hours. Should the breathing be severe, the belladonna 
may be augmented in a similar proportion. Until the symptoms are 
more than merely amended, the nourishment ought entirely to consist of 
hay-tea, with a little oatmeal boiled in it. When improvement decidedly 
takes place, the hay-tea may be made a little thicker, and a couple of 
pounds of boiled potatoes allowed per day. So soon as the appetite 
seems to he eager for food, a pint of crushed oats, thoroughly scalded, 
may be given six times during the day. Great care, must, however, be 
taken not to overload the stomach, or to permit a full meal : a single 
gorge is likely to provoke a returq of the disorder. Little and often 
must be the rule at first; and the quantity may be increased while the 
frequency is diminished, as recovery is confirmed. Let some days elapse, 
however, before any hay is presented : this substance rather amuses the 
horse and fills out the stomach, than nourishes the body. Allow to enter 
the stable none of the groom's favorite drink, which consists of a handful 
of flour stirred into a pailful of cold water. The flour is not in solution 
— it soon sinks to the bottom ; and the horse, which you intend should 
in some degree be nourished, receives nothing but water. 

Order the cook to prepare the gruel, and see that she does it with as 
much care and cleanliness as she would exercise for any Christian. The 
groom's gruel is hot water, which may or may not be boiling, stirred 
upon a certain quantity of meal. A lady may conjecture how she would 
relish such a composition sent to her sick chamber ; and the horse is as 
nice in its taste as any human being possibly can be. 



134 



PNEUMONIA. 



Neither permit any grass to be put before an animal which is recovering 
from pneumonia. Grasses of all kinds contain the least possible nutri- 
ment in the largest possible bulk. The object now is to accomplish the 
introduction of nutriment in the most concentrated form. A distended 
stomach impedes the action of the diaphragm, and thereby is most 
injurious to the breathing. 




A MUCn-WISHED FOR SIGHT DITRINO DISEASE OF THE tDNGS. 



The first marked sign of improvement, during pneumonia, is the animal 
lying down. When this wished-for sight is before your eyes, do not 
enter to disturb the prostrate horse. It has, under disease, stood for 
several days. Its limbs must ache and its feet feel sore : make no noise, 
therefore. Respect the repose of the sufferer, and be grateful that your 
horse, probably, has escaped from danger. 

If, subsequent to recovery, the restoration to perfect health is not so 
rapid as you could desire, be very particular about the feeding. At the 
same time apply a strong blister upon the front of the throat, down to 
the chest and between the legs. That blister having worn itself out, 
apply another upon the sides of the throat and the upper part of the 
ribs; but respect the sides of the thorax; because the animal rests on 
these parts, and, during recovery, rest is of more value than medicine. 
Nothing, therefore, should be permitted that is likely to prevent so bene- 
ficial a state from being indulged in. Abjure all purgatives — these 
favorite potions are too debilitating for pneumonia ; forbid all mashes ; 
nature, as she permits recovery, will, at her own time, relieve tne body; 



PNEUMONIA. 



135 



ADHESION 1. THE PLEURA PULM0NA1I3 
UNITED BY DISEASE TO THE PLEURA 

COSTALIS. 

a a. The plenra pulmonalis, or the 
natural covering of the lung. 

6 6. The pleura costalis, or the lining 
membrane of the chest. 

c. The false adhesion, fixing the 

lung and preventing its full 
expansion. 

d. The divided surface of the lung. 




adhere to the treatment which has been laid down ;\ permit no tonics ; 
care and good food are the best restoratives. But, above all things, be 
certain the health is thoroughly recovered 
before the horse, which has been seriously 
ill, is again compelled to labor. 

Several states are mentioned as the con- 
sequence of pneumonia. Adhesion of the 
lung to the covering of the thorax is alluded 
to as one result of this disease ; but before 
adhesion could take place, inflammation 
must have existed in the pleura, which lines 
the interior of the chest and envelops the 
lung itself; consequently, pleurisy must 
have been present before the pleura could 
be sufficiently inflamed for adhesion to en- 
sue. The other condition is the result of 
congestion ; the tubes and vessels alike are 
clogged, the lung is converted from its soft 
and spongy natural texture to a firm and 
solid substance resembling liver. But con- 
gestion is not pneumonia, neither is a solid 
state of the bronchial tubes by any means 
good evidence that pneumonia has provoked the morbid alteration. 

Now, in conclusion, we must answer the important inquiry, — what is 
the cause of this afiliction ? Poverty, without dependence, inherits few 
disorders. Nature, in mercy, spares the peasant those visitations which 
are heaped upon the nobleman. To what, then, shall we attribute the 
ailment of a life so entirely in possession of another as that of the horse ? 
Is it untruth to point to that which in ordinary language passes for the 
master's thoughtlessness? The creature is often worked, not to the 
point of fatigue, but is goaded to the possibility of exhaustion ; fed 
upon the cheapest sustenance, and lodged according to the proprietor's 
convenience ; made subservient to the whims of vanity, and forced to 
conform to the habits or the caprices of fashion ; now, waiting patiently 
in the storm ; then, hurried along the dusty roads through the parching 
heat ; now, stopped during a long journey and expected hastily to con- 
sume the provender which shall support life the remainder of the distance : 
treatment like this will provoke more acute evils than pneumonia. The 
last disorder is of too dull a type to be begotten by so harsh a parent. 

The horse which is pampered, or has much to eat and little work to 
do ; the creature which for days may stagnate in the stable and then 
be suddenly brought forth to extraordinary exertion ; the horse whose 



HEPATIZATION 2. OR THE LUNG BT DIS- 
EASE CONVERTED INTO A SUBSTANCE 
RESEMBLING LIVER. 



136 PLEURISY. 

•* 
owner is capricious ; the animal whose work is uncertain ; the quad- 
ruped which now is idle, and now is required to make good the lost 
time, — is the living being prepared to exhibit any slow disorder — to 
consume itself with the disease which an existence, properly treated, 
would possess the energy to resist. 

Is it strange, that a creature doomed to so much and such deep sub- 
serviency, occasionally fails, even when possessed by what men call the 
best of masters ? Is it just reason for wonder, that flesh occasionally 
rebels against the treatment which human ignorance subjects it to ? 
Were the horse not a very hardy animal, were not the life implanted 
as firmly as the frame is set, it would not survive a tithe part of the 
usage it now endures, and, notwithstanding, continues to live on and to 
obey. 

PLEURISY. 

This most painful disease, like those of the kngs generally, visits 
valuable horses during the years when they are most esteemed. The 
unbroken colt is seldom attacked, and the aged animal is, to an almost 
equal degree, exempt. The young steed, newly stabled, is liable ; and 
that liability remains up to the sixth year, when it gradually subsides. 
It is a terrible affliction. Its anguish is localized and concentrated. It 
is inflammation of the fine, glistening membrane covering the lungs and 
lining the inside of the chest. At every inspiration and at every expira- 
tion the inflamed surfaces must move upon each other. To breathe is 
the primary necessity of the creature's life. It cannot exist and refuse 
to inflate the lungs ; yet is existence purchased at a price worth many 
years of happiness. The inflamed surfaces cannot remain quiet ; yet, to 
render the condition of motion the more acute, ihflammation stops the 
secretion, which, during health, smoothed and lubricated the passage of 
the membranes. During disease, the pleura is swollen, rough, and dry ; 
it grates or scratches as one surface is, by the necessity to breathe, 
dragged over the other. 

Membranes are sensitive in disease in proportion to the fineness of 
their structure, and to their insensibility during health. The pleura 
belongs to what are termed serous membranes. These line closed 
cavities; as the chest, the abdomen, and the joints. Of the existence 
of none of these are we conscious while they are free from disease ; but, 
let the inflammation set in, and it would be difficult to decide which of 
them is the most painful. Fortunately, however, pleurisy, when concen- 
trated or singly present, terminates generally by the second day. 

The symptoms, therefore, are quickly developed. The violence op 
their first appearance has been so great, that an attack of pleurisy has 



PLEURISY. 137 

been mistaken for a fit of spasmodic colic. A little care will guard 
against so fatal an error. The pulse, in colic, is always natural at the 
commencement, and the fits, when they first occur, are invariably of shori 
duration. In pleurisy, the vessel strikes the fingers ; the blow is strong, 
and the artery is thin ; the pain is continuous ; the agony never remits 
or ceases ; the horse never feeds ; the body is hot, and indicates the fire 
within ; the feet are icy cold ; the muscles are frequently corrugated in 
patches, and partial perspirations break forth upon the surface ; a cough 
is often, not invariably, present ; it is always suppressed and dry ; it 
suggests no notion that the intent is to clear the throat ; the inclination 
to cough, from the larynx sympathizing with the lungs, is great ; the 
feeling cannot be entirely mastered, — but the horse is fearful of indulging 
an impulse, which would violently shake the inflamed chest. The ear, 
placed against the ribs, detects a grating sound, and the respiratory 
murmur is less clear than usual. Pressure made on the free interspaces 
between the ribs sometimes deprives the animal almost of consciousness ; 
it shrinks, and were the torture continued, it would fall. At other times 
anguish maddens even timidity, — the foot is lifted or the teeth are dis- 
played, to repel the tormentor. When left alone, the head is frequently 
turned toward the side, with a piteous stare of wonder and inquiry. 
Altogether the animal is, as it were, inspirited by the disorder. 







A HORSE SUFFERING TTNDER PLEURISY. 



The fore foot is scarcely ever quiet ; it constantly paws, which action, 
in the horse, always expresses impatience or pain. The breathing, of 
course, is peculiar ; a full inspiration the animal dare not take. Before 
inhalation is half completed the ribs fly backward. However, the back- 
ward action has hardly been accomplished before anguish once more 
compels a change ; thus the breathing, to a looker-on, appears short, 
jerking, quick, and always imperfect. 



138 PLEURISY. 

The treatment must be active, as it is likely to be short. At the first 
outbreak, abstract enough blood to ease the horse, but take no more ; 
place the sufferer in a cool, loose box ; put woolen bandages upon all 
the legs, but leave the body unclothed ; give, every quarter of an hour, 
a scruple of tincture of aconite in a wineglass of warm water. Feel the 
pulse before each dose ; when that has softened, discontinue the aconite ; 
every second hour then administer one ounce of sulphuric ether and of 
.tincture of opium in a tumbler of cold water, to dispel any congestion 
that may lurk about the pleura, and also to lend smoothness or fullness 
to the pulse. 

Pursue these measures for the first day and night. On no account be 
tempted to bleed a second time, for fear of that weakness which generates 
hydrothorax. When the pulse and pain are amended, should the cough 
remain, introduce the steaming apparatus twice described under the 
headings of the two previous articles. The bowels are generally cos- 
tive ; be not alarmed ; with the departure of the disorder they will relax. 
Place lukewarm water within the easy reach of the horse; but before 
the symptoms abate, introduce nothing of a more stimulating nature. 
When the disorder lessens, hay-tea may be allowed ; as improvement 
increases, the diet may be gradually augmented after the manner de- 
scribed, when considering the treatment of pneumonia. Such care is 
essential, because any violent disorder in a confined part of the body has 
a tendency to involve other structures, and the danger of this increases 
as the inflammation is removed from the surface. 

The tranquilizing of the respiration, the softness of the pulse and the 
return of the appetite will announce the departure of pleurisy. When 
these longed-for indications are remarked, blister the throat and chest ; 
should any seeds of the malady appear to be not entirely removed, repeat 
the blister to the throat and chest. Should the bowels not be relieved, 
throw up copious enemas of blood-warm gruel ; nothing more must be 
attempted. Aloes or salts are poisons during pleurisy ; wait patiently, 
and in time the establishment of health will restore all the natural functions, 
or if they are very confined, a bundle or two of cut grass may be presented 
with the usual food. 

A yellow, transparent discharge from the nostrils, occasionally streaked 
with blood, and more or less otherwise discolored; a horrible anxiety 
of countenance, which seems to appeal mutely to every human being the 
saddened eye rests upon ; quickened breathing, a more rapid but a sink- 
ing pulse, and a leaden state of the nasal membranes declare the proba- 
bility of a fatal termination. Pleurisy, however, mostly ends in hydro- 
thorax, for the character of which the reader is referred to the succeeding 
pages. 



HYDROTHORAX. 139 

Now comes the sad inquiry, what is the cause of pleurisy ? All kinds 
of things may excite it ; but those things which lead to so much suffering 
in an inoffensive animal, are under the control of man. Overexertion, 
being driven or ridden far and fast, the spirit being stimulated, and the 
energy promoted by potent drinks ; for men will give the contents of 
the public-house to the horse when a wager is at stake, and will lash, 
while the limbs can move, to win any pitiful bet, — these circumstances 
not unfrequently provoke pleurisy. Injuries received externally not un- 
seldom start up internal inflammation. Hurts calculated to lead to so 
serious an evil, together with broken ribs, will not be surprising to those 
who have seen the unseemly instruments which man will, in his rage, 
seize upon to strike the animal with. Colds, aggravated by change of 
temperature, as waiting long in the rain and being flurried home after- 
ward ; inattention in feeding, thus generating a plethora, is apt to dis- 
order any internal organ, and many other such like causes will generate 
the 'disease. 

And what right has man to inflict so much agony upon any life in- 
trusted to his care ? What right has humanity to complain of tyranny 
in its superiors, when the human race can neglect and entail such anguish 
upon the beings beneath them ? The greed of gain or the pride of win- 
ning are the first motives assigned as the promoters of this terrible afflic- 
tion; next come the gratifications of passion; then follows carelessness 
for another's welfare, etc. Which of these several causes is worth the 
torture of a living body ? such torture, too, as the rack cannot equal, 
and human malice is happily forbidden to rival ! 

A little self-restraint instilled by a better plan of education, a little 
more humanity enforced by the teachers of religion, to instruct that man 
should not view himself as the owner of the earth which he temporarily 
inhabits; that man should not consider himself the proprietor of the 
lives which share the globe with him ; that man should be actuated by 
genuine Christian love toward all animated nature, feeling kindly for 
the lives akin to his own, and acknowledging, as fellow-sojourners, the 
creatures by which he is surrounded, — then, how much affliction might be 
eradicated from that which wickedness alone renders a "vale of tears !" 

HYDROTHORAX. 

This is the consequence of the latter stage of pleurisy ; or rather, to 
speak with caution, we fear it is often the result of the severe treatment 
adopted to dispel that malady. 

Man leaves his property, which is very ill of pleurisy over night, hope- 
less that the animal can survive till morning. On returning, however, 



HO 



HYDROTHORAX. 



to the stable early on the following day, to his surprise he beholds the 
horse actually looking better. The pain has evidently abated, if not 
altogether departed; the eye is more cheerful; the manner more en- 
couraging. Having observed this, attention rests upon the flanks. The 




A HORSE DYINO OF HTDEOTHOEAX. 



motion of these parts is greatly increased. They are now forcibly 
brought into action. The suspicion is awakened. The ear is applied 
to the chest. Near the breast bone, or low down, all is very quiet. A 
little higher up nothing can be heard ; but rather past the middle of the 
ribs the sound of breathing is once more detected. Again and again is 
the experiment repeated, until the disappointed proprietor is forced to 
believe that which is against his hope. 

Still clinging to chance, after conviction has gained possession of his 
mind, there is another trial he will make to render despair a certainty. 
He seeks some man — any one will do ; and having found a loiterer, he 
returns with him to the stable. He places this individual upon one side 
of the horse, and. tells the man to slap the side of the animal with the 
open palm, when the word "now" is spoken. This being arranged, the 
master goes to the opposite side. He puts his ear to the place where 
the silence ceased. Having assured himself the spot he has chosen is 
correct, he pronounces the monosyllable "now." Directly afterward a 
dull sound is heard, and a metallic ring or splashing noise is soon after- 
ward audible. 

All now is confirmed, yet, "to make assurance doubly sure," the owner 
tries to take the pulse at the jaw. There is none to be felt ! The hand 
is then placed near the chest, upon the left side and over the region of 
the heart. The sensation of a throb, coming through water, is percepti- 



HYDROTHORAX. 



141 



ble. The last requirement is confirmed. The horse has dropsy of the 
chest, and the termination of the disorder is all but certain. 

The first thing to be done, in these cases, is to draw off the liquid be- 
fore it soddens the pleura and further distresses the already labored 




MAKING THE PEIMART INCISION FOR lAPPINO 
THE CHEST. 



A TROCAR WITH THE STILET UPON IT. 




REMOTING THE FLUID IN 
HYDROTHOEAX. 



breathing. The manner of performing this operation is very simple, 
and the operation itself remarkably safe. A spot near the inferior mar- 
gin of the chest being selected, a small portion of skin, between the 
eighth and ninth ribs, is pulled forward, and then a narrow slit with a 
sharp knife is made upon the place which the skin originally covered. 
A trocar, armed with a stilet, is then inserted into the opening, and so 
much force applied as suffices to propel it onward. The moment all 
resistance ceases, the trocar is within the cavity of the thorax. The 
stilet is then withdrawn, and the water usually flows forth. 

There is in this operation no danger of piercing the lung. The 
trocar must be driven upward and onward, very far and very forcibly, 
to induce such an effect. The lung is protected from all lawful violence 
by the water, on the top of which it floats. 

There is, however, a dispute concerning how much of the fluid should 
be extracted. It is a good rule to take all you can get, or all the con- 
dition of the horse will permit to be abstracted. Do not commence the 
operation with any determinate quantity in your mind. Take all, if the 
horse will suffer so much to be withdrawn ; but if the animal, after the 
loss of a quart, shows signs of approaching faintness, withdraw the 
trocar, let the skin fly back, and wait a more favorable opportunity for 
the next attempt. 

In an hour or two the trial can be repeated. Make a new opening 
(for never risk exciting irritation in the original wound, by again thrust- 



142 HYDROTHORAX. 

ing the trocar througli it.) There are but few precautions to be ob- 
served during the performance of tapping the chest. It is usual to 
teach, that the posterior border of the ribs is to be avoided, because this 
portion of the bones is grooved for the reception of the artery. Anatomy, 
however, shows that such vessels are amply protected by the grooves in 
which they travel. 

There is also some selection to be made in the trocar which shall be 
employed. If the tube be of too great a size and permits the fluid to 
gush quickly out, nature may sink under the sudden change induced : the 
water, consequently, ought to be very gradually abstracted. For this 
purpose, the instrument cannot well be too small. The most diminutive 
of those made for human practice will be quite large enough, so that the 
bulk of liquid within the chest may be insensibly removed, and the horse 
be scarcely aware of the change. Those trocars, however, which are 
made for the human practitioner will not be long enough ; therefore one 
must be procured longer, but of the like bore. 

Sometimes, after the trocar is properly inserted, no fluid will pour 
forth: the operation is then all but hopeless. It must have been so 
long delayed that various substances have been secreted. These cover 
the interior of the chest. They obstruct the mouth of the cannula and 
prevent the liquid issuing by the tube. 

It is customary, in these cases, to employ a whalebone probe. This 
is inserted up the trocar, and then moved about in different directions. 
The intention is to break down the layer of pus or lymph lining the 
thorax, and to allow the water to leave the cavity. But this is almost 
needless, as the author does not recollect a single case of this description 
which ultimately survived. 

It is also advisable to draw off the fluid from both sides at the same 
time, so there may be no pressure upon the delicate divisions of the 
chest, and upon the important vessels within them. But happily the 
fluid is, in the first instance, generally confined to one side only. 

Always pull a piece of skin either backward or forward, before the 
incision is made through the integument. The reason for doing this is, 
because, when the trocar is removed, the skin may resume its proper 
place, and act as a valve, keeping out the atmosphere from the cavity; 
for external air, getting into the interior of the chest, is proved to be 
most injurious to life. 

There is to be tendered but one last admonition ; even this has beer 
in a great measure anticipated by the previous observations. The 
animal must not be left during the operation. Whatever time may be 
consumed by the withdrawal of the liquid, the operator must remain a 
patient spectator of the slow abstraction ; for if the horse should be 



DISEASE OF THE HEART. 143 

left, syncope may come on during such absence, and the animal, on the 
person's return, be found prostrate upon the ground. On the first sign 
of weakness, the cannula should be at once removed; for, should it be 
suffered to remain, regardless of this caution, the horse may even die 
through sudden collapse. 

The treatment, after the withdrawal of the fluid, is entirely changed ; 
pleurisy has now departed, and weakness is left behind. The most 
nourishing but carefully-prepared food must be given ; boiled oats and 
beans may be allowed in any quantity which the animal will consume, 
while the following ball should be administered, night and morning : — 

Iodide of iron One drachm. 

Strychnia Half a grain. 

Sulphate of zinc Half a drachm. 

Extract of gentian and powdered quassia . Of each a sufficiency. 

That which will denote a fatal termination is restlessness ; neighing ; 
partial sweats ; swellings under the region of the chest, and a distressed 
breathing, which nothing can relieve. The death struggle is as short as 
the disease has been painful. 

DISEASE OF THE HEART. 

This affection is characterized by various names in scientific books, as 
carditis, pericarditis, hydrops pericardii, inflammation of the pericardium, 
etc. All such conditions in the horse 
were discovered by examinations institu- 
ted after death, when, unfortunately, all 
opportunity of observing the symptoms 
had ceased. Yeterinary science cannot 
distinguish one state from another, while 
life exists. Probably this deficiency may 
be attributed to the inutility of such dis- 
crimination. Disease of the heart in 
horses is incurable. In man, who can 

- ,.,.., , DISEASE OF THE HEART IN THE HORSE. 

strictly conform to his physician's orders ; 

avoid excitement ; abstain from exertion ; eat only such a quantity of 
such a food, prepared after such a manner; feed at such an hour and 
rest at such a time ; who can live by rule ; — in man, the diseases of the 
heart are only to be delayed, not driven from their certain issues. 

Practically, therefore, so the heart be diseased, it is of small import 
what shape the disorder may assume. The death is always sudden ; it is 
likely to occur when the horse is journeying at its topmost speed; when 
accident generally follows. Consequently, it is perhaps wiser to take 




144 DISEASE OF THE HEART. 

the life, thus afflicted and thus dangerous. The horse may appear 
blooming, may even be skittish ; yet, the existence shall at any moment 
be cut short. Auscultation affords the surest means of detection. Place 
the ear close to the left side and lower part of the chest; if any unusual 
sound be audible, conclude the heart to be diseased. 

The signs visible, externally, are sometimes sufficiently emphatic to 
admit of no doubt. The eye is expressive of constant anguish ; the 
countenance is haggard; the pulse is feeble and irregular, but the heart 
throbs; its throbs are visible, and frequently they are to be seen as 
plainly on the right side as on the left. The beat is occasionally so 
violent as to shake the body. The carotid artery can be felt to pulsate 
in the neck. The regurgitation, within the jugular vein, is nearly always 
excessive, — it often reaches almost to the jaw. It takes place by jerks, 
which ascend high and higher, each becoming less and more weak, as it 
.mounts upward. 

An attempt to represent this has been hazarded in the illustration. 
It is, however, impossible to truthfully depict action; and the reader 
will comprehend the jerks, in nature, do not occur all at the same period; 
but the first subsides before the second can be exhibited. 

The appetite is sometimes ravenous ; more often it is fastidious. The 
breathing is not accelerated, excepting during the existence of pain; 
lameness is occasionally witnessed in one fore leg; dropsical swellings 
and abdominal pains have been observed. The animal, when progress- 
ing, will suddenly stop, tremble, and appear about to fall ; as suddenly, 
it will recover and proceed upon the journey. Noises, expressive of 
acute anguish, are, under the impulse of the moment, occasionally uttered. 
Sometimes the horse cannot be made to move, and it is always averse to 
turn in the stall. Often it is seen to yawn ; but more frequently has 
been known to heave long and deep-drawn sighs. No ascertained sign, 
however, announces the climax of the disorder to be near at hand. 
Death is always unexpected, and, therefore, is a surprise. 

The cause of heart disease is unknown. It may, however, be surmised 
from the fact that it is most common in gentlemen's stables, and is all 
but engrossed by the animals which have for years been subjected to the 
abuses therein practiced. It is incurable ; and all physic is thrown away 
upon this disorder. 



CHAPTER VII. 

THE STOMACH, LIVER, ETC. — THEIR ACCIDENTS AND THEIR DISEASES. 



SPASM OF THE DIAPHRAGM. 

This is generally provoked by the heedlessness of the rider. A horse 
is "overmarked," as the condition is technically called, when the animal 
is urged onward to the point of falling. The person who may occupy 
the saddle then becomes conscious of a strange and loud noise coming 
from the body which he strides ; it appears to the equestrian as though 




^ ) 



-SS^^:^-- 



THE YODNO GENTLEMAN AND THE OLB HORSE. 



some demon were located within the carcass, and were violently striking 
the sides. Should the indication be observed, the noise will be found to 
proceed from behind" or immediately under, rather than from any part 
anterior to the rider. 

The noise is produced by spasm of the diaphragm. The horse must, 
as the word " overmarked" seems to imply, have been pushed far beyond 
the point where man should have pulled the rein. A little distance 
farther, after the symptom is devoloped, will bring the animal to the 
ground ; let the check, therefore, be immediately given ; the rider should 

10 (145) 



146 SPASM OF THE DIAPHRAGM. 

dismount; the loins be covered with the gentleman's coat, if nothing 
better be at hand ; he who has caused the misery is bound to make any 
sacrifice for its alleviation. The girths should be loosened, the bridle 
removed, and when time has passed for the system to become slightly 
tranquilized, the sufferer should be very gently led to the nearest shelter. 
So soon as it is under cover, the following drink should be administered, 
but time should be taken to give the medicine, as the condition of the 
horse forbids all haste : — 

Sulphuric ether Two ounces. 

Tincture of camphor Half an ounce. 

Tincture of opium One ounce. 

Cold water or gruel One pint. 

This should be repeated every quarter of an hour, till four drinks are 
swallowed ; then the intervals should be lengthened to half an hour, 
and, as the symptom decreases, the medicine ought to be administered 
at still longer periods, and ultimately, but gradually, withdrawn. 

There are, however, other things to be done. When the animal is 
first brought in, procure five quiet assistants ; give a leg-bandage each 
to four of the helpers, and a sponge, with a basin of cold water, to the 
fifth. Order the men to perform their ministration silently ; the four are 
to bandage the four legs while the fifth sponges out the mouth, nose, 
eyes, and anus ; this done, the body is to be superficially cleaned. Sweat 
is to be removed and dirt taken off; the ears pulled, and the head made 
comfortable ; the tail and mane having been previously combed, a hood 
and body clothing should be put on. 

All this should be well understood beforehand ; while it is being 
accomplished not a word should be spoken ; nothing is more soothing 
to an agitated system than perfect silence. Wet swabs should then be 
placed upon the feet, a pail of gruel suspended from the manger, and a 
man left to warn off all noisy strangers from the exterior of the build- 
ing ; for during spasm from overexertion perfect quietude is quite as 
essential as medicine. 

Spasm of the diaphragm, if taken in time, is not generally fatal ; and 
no man, however determined a " Nimrod" he may be, is justified in pro- 
ceeding after having recognized so mysterious a warning. The sound 
before alluded to must emphatically inform him all is not right with the 
animal on whiph he is seated. It is folly to urge that the horse enjoys 
the chase as much as the rider ; no life would, for its own pleasure, run 
Uself to a spasmodic exhaustion. Old hunters may have left the field to 
follow the hounds ; the animals, however, obey only the impulse of 
education, and did what they imagined would gratify their superiors. 
The horse is given as a servant to man ; the creature is obedient to its 



ACUTE GASTRITIS. 



14Y 



destiny ; to serve is its lot, to please is its reward. Body and soul it 
devotes to the heartless being who is assigned its appointed lord ; it 
will spend its last breath in the gratification of its master ; such afi'ection 
surely merits better treatment than the quadruped generally receives. 

When spasm of the diaphragm terminates fatally, approaching dissolu- 
tion is announced by easily recognized signs. The pulse cannot be felt 
at the jaw ; the heart only flutters ; the feet are icy cold ; a yellow dis- 
charge drains from the nostrils ; the breath becomes fetid ; the pupil of 
the eye enlarges ; the horse wanders round and round its box ; it soon 
sinks and perishes. 

ACUTE GASTRITIS. 

This most painful affliction is only known in the horse as the conse- 
quence of some poisonous substance being swallowed. Poisoning entire 
teams of valuable horses has followed the use of certain powders, these 
being mixed with the corn ; the intention was to improve the personal 
appearace of the animals to which the drug was administered. Carters 
have a large faith in condition powders, and a distant belief in the magic 
of medicine ; in their ignorance, they spend their hard-earned wages to 
procure the stufl", too often compounded of ageuts which never should be 
trusted in the hands of the uneducated. The men argue, if these powders, 
say one spoonful given each night, will make the horse bloom in a fort- 
night, two spoonfuls must do the same thing in a week ; the spoonful 




A HORSB SUFFERING FROM ACUTE GASTRITIS. 



possibly contains the utmost limits of the dose ; that quantity exceeded 
may endanger or destroy life. But ignorance is always impatient ; it 
ever desires the speediest results ; and if accident attends its eagerness, 
indignation should be visited upon those who put responsible trusts in 



X48 ACUTE GASTRITIS. 

such keeping ; upon the men who for gain sell poisonous drugs to the 
obviously uninformed. 

Books and charts are published, explaining the various antidotes and 
tests to be employed for the detection and counteraction of the different 
poisons. Such authorities are of little service in the stable ; the tests 
require care and time for their application; the symptoms are mostly so 
urgent as to permit no leisure for scientific inquiry. In an acute case, 
dependence must be placed on general principles, and fortune must be 
relied on to guide the result. 

Certain poisons act instantaneously and without any warning suffi- 
ciently energetic to be interpreted, as the twigs or leaves of the yew- 
tree. 

Other agents immediately establish the lesson which sometimes speedily 
kills, but more often produces consequences which will ultimately destroy 
life, though death may be some time before it occurs, as the mineral 
acids, etc. 

The presence of particular kinds is announced only by violent disorder, 
as powerful diuretics and potent purgatives. 

The symptoms, therefore, are not decided ; the carter has his motives 
for silence, and the inability of the horse to vomit forbids the earliest 
announcement of deranged stomach. The time for antidotes has gen- 
erally passed before attention is excited ; to support the life, in the hope 
that it may survive the destroyer, is evidently the best thing which can, 
under such circumstance, be adopted. Chloroform, ether, and opium 
render the body insensible, and, by sparing the nervous system, certainly 
existence will be prolonged. Purgatives had better be withheld ; they 
may already have been administered in enormous doses ; fearful amounts 
of aloes destroy life without purgation being exhibited. 

Against alkalies there does not exist the same objection ; carbonate 
of magnesia, carbonate of soda or of potash may, in quantity, be mixed 
with gruel and horned down ; both opium and ether may be blended 
with the drink. Should the pulse be low, a drachm of carbonate of 
ammonia may be added to each dose of the other ingredients. Should 
corrosive sublimate be in any degree suspected to be the agent em- 
ployed, mix one dozen eggs with the other components ; these will in 
no way detract from the operation of the drench. 

The mixture should be given in as large quantities as the animal can 
be induced to swallow. The gruel should be quite cold, and one quart 
should constitute a dose. No bleeding should be permitted ; the abstrac- 
tion of blood promotes absorption ; to prevent the absorption of the 
poison is the present endeavor. The following draught contains all that 
can be recommended, so long as ignorance of the actual poison it is 



ACUTE GASTRITIS. 149 

desired to counteract, exists. When the information is positive, of 
course Morton's Toxological Chart will be a far better guide than any 
observations the author has ability to offer. 

Sulphuric ether and tincture of opium ... Of each three ounces. 
Carbonate of magnesia, of soda or potash . . Four ounces. 
Gruel (quite cold) One quart. 

To these may be added, should the pulse be of a sinking character : — 
Carbonate of ammonia One drachm. 

If corrosive sublimate is known to have caused the agony, one dozen 
raw eggs ought to be blended with the drench. 

Use discretion in the administration; but repeat the drinks as often 
and as quickly as can be accomplished without adding to the distress of 
the horse. Regard the state of the animal, and, if weakness be present, 
take time when giving the drench. Should delirium be displayed, do 
not trust to the natural functions ; employ Read's pump, with the horse 
catheter attached, and inject, with all dispatch, the whole quantity at 
once through the nostril. 




HOW TO GIVE PHYSIC, WHEN THE USUAL MODE OP ITS EXHIBITION IS ATTENDED WITH DANGER. 

The symptoms of poisoning are various; they are also modified by 
the strength upon which they act. The annexed list, however, contains 
the general appearances by which poisoning is announced, though the 
whole of the symptoms are never simultaneously exhibited : Loathing 
of all food; extreme thirst; redness of the nasal and conjunctival mem- 
branes; discharge of ropy saliva; frequent eructations, which smell 
pungently fetid; colic, rolling on the ground, pawing, striking at the 
abdomen, etc.; tucked-up flanks; heaving; panting; small, quick pulse; 
superpurgation ; violent straining; passing of mucus in large quanti- 
ties; protrusion and inflammation of the opening; glances at the abdo- 
men; prostration of strength; convulsions; madness and death. 



150 CHRONIC GASTRITIS. 

And now, whence is derived the source of this evil ? It springs from 
the ignorance of the age. Is it not, at the present day, a common 
saying, that "intelligence goes begging, while handicraft finds employ- 
ment?" Goodness, education, and industry cannot, at this time, insure 
the bread which will support existence. The cunning and the knowing- 
ness of the uninformed is much preferred. There is no mystery in the 
groom's office which might not be acquired in a week. The horse would 
fare better and be more safe in the custody of a person who possibly 
might sympathize with its solitude and appreciate its disposition. A 
higher class of servants would involve a higher rate of wages. But 
these might be paid, and notwithstanding, the horse proprietor be, in 
the long run, an evident gainer. To put the wounds inflicted on the 
sensibility of a feeling man out of the question, it is a heavy misfortune 
to look upon three or four valuable horses stretched out in death. Add 
to this, there are other accidents that ignorance, without malice, com- 
mits, and all of which must be paid for by the master. Then there are 
the petty frauds and understandings in which cunning delights, and all 
of which are indulged at the master's cost. On the other hand, there is 
the certainty, or all but certainty, that intelligence would perform its 
duty. The horses would thrive better and last longer when confided 
to proper custody. The losses, attendant upon ignorance, would be 
avoided, — not to mention the ease of mind secured by confidence in the 
probity of the person to whom authority is intrusted. What a mockery 
it is, to cry up education and then to shun the educated 1 A stimulus 
would be given to the ignorant, when it is recognized that the informed 
will be alone engaged to fill offices of trust. 

CHRONIC GASTRITIS. 

This affection is more general than is commonly understood. The 
horse being unable to vomit, of course the first positive proof of dis- 
ordered stomach cannot be exhibited. Thus, little attention is generally 
paid to its digestion, when primarily diseased. 

Chronic gastritis is usually said to be provoked by rearing upon sour 
or soft land ; but well-bred animals are very often subject to the malady. 
The ailment is freqfiently first displayed at the period when the services 
are esteemed most valuable, or between the fifth and sixth years, long 
after the mode of rearing must have ceased to operate. The symptoms 
are various, and hardly ever alike. The stomach may affect the nervous 
symptom; then, its complications become difficult to disentangle. The 
affection is mostly declared by an irregularity of bowels and a capricious- 
ness of appetite. The animal starts off violently purging. The loose- 
ness ^tops as suddenly as it commenced. Obstinate costiveness then 



CHRONIC GASTRITIS. 



151 



sets in, and each state can be traced to no obvious reason. The straw 
or litter may be eaten ravenously, but all the wholesome provender ob- 
stinately refused. The dung shows the condition of the appropriating 
functions ; it crumbles upon the slightest force being imposed ; it appears 
to consist of fibers not agglutinated together. Sometimes it is coated 
with mucus, and always smells abhorrently. A dry cough may be pres- 
ent ; the visible membranes are pallid ; the mouth feels cool ; the breath 
is tainted ; the eyes are sunken ; the respiration is catching ; the belly is 
pendulous ; the anus is lax and prominent ; the coat dry and ragged ; 
while the body quickly becomes emaciated. 




A HORSE WITH CHRONIO GASTRITIS INDULGING ITS MORBID APPETITE. 



The slightest exertion produces a thick and copious feweat. The 
symptom, however, which is most remarkable, when the cleanly habits 
natural to the animal are considered, is the peculiarity of the appetite. 
The rack and manger are generally neglected ; but every unnatural or 
offensive substance, within reach of the extended jaws, is devoured with 
avidity. Woodwork has largely disappeared. Soil and stones have 
been removed from the stomachs of creatures destroyed for incurable 
disease. Either of the substances last named, however, are usually 
spared, so long as a morsel of plaster, a portion of mortar or of brick, is 
within reach. Animals, when in the field, will leave the grass and enter 
any ditch to gnaw at bricks and mortar. When confined, they will, 
under the morbid influence of this affection, employ themselves for hours 
searching for a morsel of either among the straw. 

The old custom of purging and bleeding for a case of this kind is posi- 
tively injurious. It is better to administer bitters, alkalies, and seda- 
tives; — the first, to amend the appetite; the second, to correct the 
acidity of th6 morbid secretion ; the third, to destroy the uneasy sensa- 
tion which provokes too many of the symptoms. 



152 BOTS. 

Powdered nux vomica ....... One scruple. 

Carbonate of potash One drachm. 

Extract of belladonna Half a drachm. 

Extract of gentian and powdered quassia . Of each a sufficiency. 
Or, 

Strychnia . . • Half a grain. 

Bicarbonate of ammonia One drachm. 

Extract of belladonna Half a drachm. 

Sulphate of zinc Half a drachm. 

Extract of gentian and powdered quassia . Of each a sufficiency. 
Give, morning and night. 
One of the above balls may be given daily. When their benefits seem 
exhausted, give, instead of a ball, half an ounce each of liquor arseni- 
calis, the same of tincture of ipecacuanha, with one ounce of muriated 
tincture of iron and of laudanum, in a pint of water. Also, damp the 
food and sprinkle magnesia freely upon it. Then, as the strength im- 
proves, introduce sulphuric ether, one ounce ; water, one pint, daily ; and 
ultimately change this last for a quart of good ale or stout. 

Before concluding, there remains to point out the cause of this lamenta- 
ble affection. Ignorance views each part of the body as distinct ; it 
cannot see the various components are connected, and, in the mass, 
constitute one whole. Thus, medicine appears to the uninformed as 
thrown away, when internally administered for a skin disease. So it 
may to such persons appear strange how the air inhaled can disorder 
the digestion 1 To those better informed, however, it will only seem a 
natural consequence that impure atmosphere, inspired day and night, 
should impair the body's health. It will, with such people, be recog- 
nized as likely that the disorder should break forth when the frame is 
on the eve of being matured. The cause of indigestion is close and un- 
healthy stables. What loss will instruct mankind, that they cannot 
enslave life and treat it according to their convenience ? Life has its 
natural rights : these cannot be disregarded — the requirements of breath- 
ing creatures must be fulfilled. The ability of the enslaver to use accord- 
ing to his pleasure, must not be selfishly regarded ; else nature is out- 
raged, and in its deprivation, pride learns the impossibility of forcing all 
things to conform with its inclinations. 

• 

BOTS. 

No animal which has not been turned out to graze during the summer 
months can possibly be troubled with these parasites. Such annoyances 
form no light argument against the benefits accomplished by that which 
is in slang phrase termed "Dr. Green." The appearance of the coat 



BOTS. 153 

and aspect of unthriftiness, after a run at grass, generally declare bots to 
be present within the body. 

Uninformed persons are always desirous to possess some medicine 
which will destroy bots ; they wonder that science lacks invention suf- 
ficient to compound such an agent. An anecdote may probably dispel 
such astonishment. 

A patron of the Royal Veterinary College was once conducted by a 
pupil through the museum belonging to that establishment ; the pair at 
last stood before the preparation of a horse's stomach, eaten through by, 
and also covered with, bots. 

"God bless my soul !" exclaimed the visitor, after the nature of the 
specimen had been explained. " What a spectacle I What a myriad of 
tormentors 1 And have you no medicine to remove such nuisances ? 
Can veterinary science discover nothing capable of destroying those 
parasites ?" 

" Why, sir," replied the student, " only look at that preparation. To 
my knowledge, it has been put up in spirits of wine, and corked air tight 
for two years. The creatures must be either very dead or very drunk by 
this time ; yet, as you witness, they hold on. What sort of physic could 
accomplish more than is already effected by the spirits of wine and close 
confinement ? I am at a loss to conjecture 1" 

For the above, the author is indebted to the admirable lectures de- 
livered by Professor Spooner ; but the conclusion drawn by the student 
must be more than satisfactory. Bots, once within the stomach, must 
remain there till the following year, when, being matured, their hold of 
the lining membrane of the viscus will relax, and, in the form of a 
chrysalis, they are ejected from the system. No medicine can expedite 
the transformation. It has hitherto appeared easier to kill the horse 
than to remove the parasite. 

To the investigation of Bracy Clark, Esq., V. S., the public owe all 
their knowledge of the fly whence the bot is derived. The common 
parent, according to the above authority, is the oestrus equi ; and the 
author gladly avails himself of the original description by the above- 
named talented gentleman. 

"on the (estrus equi, or the stomach bot, 

"When the female has been impregnated, and the eggs sufficiently 
matured, she seeks among the horses a subject for her purpose, and 
approaching him on the wing, she carries her body nearly upright in the 
air, and her tail, which is lengthened for the purpose, curved inward and 
upward : in this way she approaches the part where she designs to de- 



154 



BOTS. 



posit the egg ; and, suspending herself for a few. seconds before it, sud- 
denly darts upon it, and leaves the egg adhering to the hair : she hardly 
appears to settle, but merely touches the hair with the egg held out on 
the projected point of the abdomen. The egg is made to adhere by 
means of a glutinous liquor secreted with it. She then leaves the horse 
at a small distance, and prepares a second egg, and, poising herself 
before the part, deposits it in the same way. The liquor dries, and the 
egg becomes firmly glued to the hair : this is repeated by these flies till 
four or five hundred eggs are sometimes placed on one horse. 




THE (ESTBUS EQXII. 

Copied from the Work on Bota, by Bracy Clark, Esq. 



1. The female fly about to deposit an egg. 

2. The male fly. 

3. The egg, its natural size. 

4. The egg, magnified. 



5. The newly-hatched hot. 

6. The hot full grown. 

7. The head of a hot magnified. 

8. The chrysalis. 



" The skin of the horse is usually thrown into a tremulous motion on 
the touch of this insect, which merely arises from the very great irrita- 
bility of the skin and cutaneous muscles at this season of the year, 
occasioned by the heat and continual teasing of the flies, till at length 
these muscles appear to act involuntarily on the slightest touch of any 
body whatever. 

" The inside of the knee is the part on which these flies are most fond 
of depositing their eggs, and next to this on the side and back part of 
the shoulder, and less frequently on the extreme ends of the hairs of the 
mane. But it is a fact worthy of attention, that the fly does not place 
them promiscuously about the body, but constantly on those parts which 



BOTS. 155 

are most liable to be licked with the tongue ; and the ova, therefore, are 
always scrupulously placed within its reach. 

" The eggs thus deposited I at first supposed were loosened from the 
hairs by the moisture of the tongue, aided by its roughness, and were 
conveyed to the stomach, where they were hatched : but on more minute 
search I do not find this to be the case, or at least only by accident ; for 
when they have remained on the hairs four or five days, they become 
ripe, after which time the slightest application of warmth and moisture 
is sufficient to bring forth in an instant the latent larva. At this time, 
if the tongue of the horse touches the egg, its operculum is thrown open, 
and a small active worm is produced, which readily adheres to the moist 
surface of the tongue, and is from thence conveyed with the food to the 
stomach. 

" At its first hatching it is, as we have observed, a small active worm, 
long in proportion to its thickness, but as its growth advances, it becomes 
proportionably thicker and broader, and beset with bristles. 

" They are very frequent in horses that have been at grass, and are 
in general found adhering to the white insensible tissue or coat of the 
stomach. 

" They usually hang in dense clusters to this white cuticular lining of 
the stomach, and maintain their hold by means of two dark-brown hooks, 
between which a longitudinal slit or fissure is seen, which is the mouth 
of the larva. When removed from the stomach by the fingers by a 
sudden jerk, so as not to injure them, they will, if fresh and healthy, 
attach themselves to any loose membrane, and even to the skin of the 
hand. For this purpose they sheath or draw back the hooks almost 
entirely within the skin, till the two points come close to each other ; 
they then present them to the membrane, and keeping them parallel till 
it is pierced through, they expand them in a lateral direction, and after- 
ward, by bringing the points downward toward themselves, they include 
a sufficient piece of the membrane, to remain firmly fixed for any length 
of time as at anchor, without requiring any further exertion. ^ 

" These bots, as is also the case with two or three other species, pass 
the autumn, winter, and spring months in the stomach, and arrive about 
the commencement or middle of the summer at their full growth, requir- 
ing a twelvemonth fully to complete their structure." 

"ON THE (ESTRUS HEMORRHOID ALIS, OR FUNDAMENT EOT. 

" The part chosen by this insect for this purpose is the lips of the 
horse, which is very distressing to the animal from the excessive titilla- 
tion it occasions-, for he immediately after rubs his mouth against the 



166 BOTS. 

ground, his fore legs, or sometimes against a tree, with great emotion ; 
till the animal at length finding this mode of defense insufficient, enraged 
he quits the spot, and endeavors to avoid it by galloping away to a 
distant part of the field ; and if the fly still cAtinues to follow and tease 
him, his last resource is in the water, where the oestrus never is observed 
to pursue him. These flies appear sometimes to hide themselves in the 
grass ; and as the horse stoops to graze, they dart on the mouth or lips, 
and are always observed to poise themselves during a few seconds in the 
air, while the egg is preparing on the extended point of the abdomen. 




r 





THE OESTRUS HEMORRHOIDALIS. 

Copied from the Work by Bracy Clark, Esq. 

1. The female fly about to deposit an egg. 3. The bot. 

2. The egg, magnified. 4. The chryealis. 

6. The male fly. 

" When several of these flies are confined in a close place, they have a 
particidarly strong, musty smell ; and I have observed both sheep and 
horses, when teased by them, to look into the grass and smell it very 
anxiously ; and if they by these means discover the fly, they immediately 
turn aside and hasten to a distant part of the field. 

" I once saw in a meadow or field upon the cliffs at Margate, a fly of 
this sort teasing a horse that was confined to a small space by a spike 
stuck in the ground, to which a cord was tied. He could not get away 
from its attack, and became quite furious, for in kicking at the fly with 
his fore foot, which he did vehemently, he often struck the bone of the 
lower jaw, creating excessive pain ; for in that direction while grazing, 
the fly comes to the beard of the lower lip. 



BOTS. 15t 

" The eggs of this species are difficult to be seen upon the horse's skio 
or beard, owing to the agitation of the beast, and from the color of the 
egg being dark like that of the skin of the horse. The animal has been 
generally too impatient, while undergoing this operation, to let me exam- 
ine them very well. I ascertained, however, its form by pressing one 
of these eggs from the abdomen. 

" The larva or grub of this species inhabits the stomach as the former, 
generally adhering to the white lining, and is disposed promiscuously in 
dense clusters, after the same manner ; they may, however, be dis- 
tinguished from them by being in general smaller and longer in pro- 
portion to their bulk. 

" The larva of this species may be obtained from almost any horse 
that has been much the preceding year at grass, and exposed to these 
flies, and will be found during the summer months sticking more or less 
within the verge or opening of the anus, adhering to its soft lining, and 
producing considerable irritation and uneasiness. Indeed, I once well 
remember being on a tour of pleasure in the Isle of Wight, and ex- 
periencing much annoyance from these larvae. The little horse I had 
hired for the journey became so lazy and unwilling to go on, and moved 
so awkwardly, that I could not keep pace with my company, and I was 
at a loss how to proceed ; but on casually taking up the tail, I discovered 
three or four of these insects hanging to the rectum, and their removal 
instantly proved a cure." 

For more ample particulars, the reader is referred to the book itself, 
which is entitled "An Essay on Bots in the Horse and other Ani- 
mals." It will, in the pages of the original work, be seen that Mr. 
Clark more than suspected the existence of other species of the same 
family ; but, as no positive knowledge has yet been gained, we must 
await patiently the inquiries of those to whom this branch of science 
belongs. 

However, the writer must dissent to Mr. Clark's conclusion, that 
"bots are harmless, if not beneficial." How far does such a supposition 
agree with the perforated stomach, preserved at the Royal "Veterinary 
College ? How far does it accord with the ragged coat and unthrifty 
aspect by which the presence of the parasites is ascertained ? How, 
when crediting such a conjecture, are we to account for the horror ex- 
hibited by the horse at the approach of the fly ; and how can we interpret 
Mr. Clark's experience in the Isle of Wight ? 

Bots are known to be injurious ; healthy bodies are seldom troubled 
with parasites. The parched and innutritions grass of the summer's 
beat cannot support the life accustomed to artificially saved and carefully 
prepared food. It is the meanness of the master which dooms the slave 



168 CHRONIC HEPATITIS. 

to 'starvation ; he begrudges the keep of the animal, therefore, he dis- 
guises the ugliness of his feeling under a pretense of giving the horse a 
month's freedom and its natural food ! In spring, when the herbage is 
young, one hour night and morning might be excused ; but those hours 
must be before the flies are up, and after these pests are asleep. In the 
height of summer, when the grass has perished and the ground is hard, 
the health soon yields to constant exposure and to unwholesome food. 
The flies torment the animal, and from the shed it is often driven by its 
companions in the field. A large portion of the accidents which horses 
are liable to, occur while out at grass ; many an animal is released from 
the stable blooming and valuable ; it is, at the expiration of the month, 
brought home looking ragged, with a huge belly, and is never fit for a 
day's service subsequently. If the matter is to be regarded only in a 
money point of view, it would have been a saving to the owner to have 
paid a twelvemonth's keep, rather than lose his servant, and notwith- 
standing, afterward have to pay for food and treatment till experience 
had instructed him in the inutility of expecting restoration. But when 
the matter is considered in a moral sense, what right has that individual 
who has, for his own pleasure, accustomed a. life to a particular form of 
diet, at his will, or for his convenience, to snatch the food from the creat- 
ure and drive it forth to gnaw at stalks which had shed their seeds, and 
to be exposed to all the variations of the season ? It is no excuse to 
talk about there being no work to be done while the master is at the 
sea-side ; the devotion of a life should have earned a brief support, and 
the gentleman whose avarice thinks otherwise has no just reason to 
complain of the punishment which the indulgence of his greed will 
probably insure. 

CHRONIC HEPATITIS. 

Acute hepatitis is unknown among horses in England. The late 
Professor Sewell thought he had witnessed one case. Other people 
know they have not seen a single instance of such a disease. 

Chronic hepatitis is peculiar to maturity. Brewers' horses — huge 
animals, fattened upon refuse of the mash-tub, and which are paraded, 
in all the pride of obesity, drawing one small cask over the stones of 
London — are often attacked by this malady. All horses which consume 
much provender, without absolute regard to work, are exposed to it. 
Gentlemen's carriage horses are very liable to it. A private vehicle is 
started, and at first much used ; but after a time it is equally neglected. 
The individual does not want the carriage to-day, when the coachman 
comes round "for orders." Neither is it required on the next occasion. 
Often a week passes without the fashionable plaything being uncovered. 



CHRONIC HEPATITIS. 159 

The animals, during that time, depend on the groom for exercise. The 
coachman may be fond of his horses, and, in his ignorance, may think 
they cannot have too much rest, or himself too little work. Let the 
master neglect his duty, and the servant soon follows the example. 

The word " duty " was employed in the last sentence. It is of an un- 
pleasant signification, and was used in its harshest sense. Kings owe a 
duty to their subjects; the rich owe a duty to the poor. All authority 
has some obligation connected with it. There is nothing like perfect 
freedom in this world of dependence. Man is the king over living 
things. He may claim his rights, but he at the same time must adopt 
the weight of his ofl&ce : he cannot assume the one and discard the other, 
A monarch is invested with dominion and authority over men ; but the 
stability of the throne is dependent upon the righteousness of the ruler. 
If he who wears the crown abuses his trust, he may possess " a right 
divine," but he is speedily without subjects. So, if man is unjust to the 
creatures ever which he is placed, nature snatches them from his grasp ; 
and he may be invested with every power, but he soon wants animals 
upon which to exercise it. 

View the matter in another light, as an affair only of worldly pru- 
dence. Knives, formed of the hardest steel, if purchased and put away, 
in a short time are worthless, because of rust. A house wears faster 
when untenanted than when properly inhabited. 

A horse cannot remain for days in the stable and retain its condition. 
The carriage proprietor has not only to find food, but he is equally 
bound to support the health of his animals, or the service for which he 
bargained will be rudely terminated. Too many do not think of this. 
Too many take out the carriage to-day, only because it accords with 
their convenience. All, however, complain of the uncertainty which 
appertains to horse-flesh. The frame of the horse is stronger than 
machinery; but it cannot resist the willfulness of human misrule. Let 
that man, whose stable troubles him, question his own conduct. Let 
him examine the house in which he has thrust life. Let him see to the 
servants he has engaged, and to the food for which he pays ; and after 
all, let him inquire into his own behavior : the error will be found, not in 
the creatures ove^, which he exercises dominion, but in those who are 
invested with authority. 

If people will start carriages, the vehicle must be taken out every day, 
let the weather freeze, rain, or shine. The hard earth of sunshine is fre- 
quently more injurious to the feet than either cold or wet are to the 
body. The lady, when out visiting, has more than her own pleasure to 
consult; for all horses fed on the best and underworked, or retained 
standing long before the street door, are exposed to chronic hepatitis. 



160 CHRONIC HEPATITIS. 

The gentleman's delight is almost as liable as the brewer's pride. Even 
moderate food and too little work will engender the disease. The author, 
when he quitted the veterinary college, left in that establishment an 
Arab, which, from a year's stagnation, was obviously thus disordered. 

The primary symptoms are not well marked, and do not, generally, 
attract attention. The animal is dull and averse to move. It appears 
to have imbibed a fondness for the inactivity to which it has been accus- 
tomed. The appetite is either nice, altogether lost, or unscrupulously 
ravenous; the bowels are constipated; the dung is black, and coated 
with bilious-looking mucus ; it is friable, and imperfectly digested. If a 
white paper be pressed upon it, a greenish-yellow stain is imparted. 
The urine is scanty, and, commonly, highly colored ; while the pulse has 
a heavy beat, as though treacle, instead of blood, circulated within the 
artery. • 

The signs which indicate a confirmation of the disorder are : the 
mouth feels cold ; the nasal membranes are unnaturally pallid ; the whites 
of the eyes are ghastly, displaying a yellow tinge ; sometimes the horse 
looks at the right side ; usually, it lies upon the left ribs, but never for 
any long time ; tenderness may be exhibited, if the right side be pressed 
upon. However, the last symptom is rarely present, and lameness in 
either fore leg is seldom witnessed. 

The disease is, for the most part, obscure, and is best recognized when 
medicine has become powerless. If eai-ly detected, a limited, but suffi- 
cient supply of nutritious food ; plenty of, but not exhausting labor, 
with a long course of iodine in alterative doses, are calculated to work 
some beneficial change. 

Iodide of potassium Two ounces. 

Liquor potassae Oue quart. 

Mix, and give two tablespoonfuls night and morning, in a pint of water. 

Commonly, however, bleeding from the liver is the earliest recognized 
indication of disease. Then the horse, with depressed head, is found 
standing before untouched food; often it staggers; sometimes it sup- 
ports itself against the partition to the stall ; it always maintains the 
erect position with extreme difficulty ; the pupil of the eyes are enlarged ; 
if the hand be moved before the sight, the lid does not close ; the vision 
is lost ; the pupils are much dilated ; the breath, denoting weakness, is 
short and catching; the jaw is pulseless, and the heart flutters; the 
visible membranes are deathly; and the bilious nature of the disorder is, 
in these last parts, apparent. Should the head, only for a minute, be 
raised, the animal threatens to fall. 

The first attack is seldom fatal, and possibly might, by proper usage, 
be recovered from. The bleeding, then, is from the substance of the 



CHRONIC HEPATITIS. 



161 



gland, and does not generally burst Glisson's capsule, or the first and 
fibrous covering of the liver. Glisson's capsule, however, is, by the pres' 
sure of fluid, bulged out. The hemorrhage stretches the peritoneum, 
which is the second or last envelope ; and nature, striving to repair the 
injury, causes the serous investment to inflame, — to become white, 
opaque, considerably thicker, and altogether stronger than in its normal 
condition. 




THE HEAD OP A HORSE STTFFERINa FBOM 
INTERNAL HEMORRHAGE. 




THE TEST FOE HEMOERHAQE FROM THE LIVER. 



There may be an indefinite number of attacks ; or the horse, possibly, 
may succumb to the first assault. Commonly, there are several fits of 
the same character. Treatment is generally adopted. A dose of aloes 
is given, though with what intention the author -is not aware. Quiet is 
enjoined; and styptics, as sugar of lead, alum, etc., are administered; 
and the horse, commonly, under such treatment, seems to recover. 

It is, however, difficult to change a fixed habit, or to perceive the 
reason for an alteration after all danger has disappeared. The gentle- 
man again indulges his inclinations. The coachman, to keep up his 
horse's flesh, fills the manger ; the master very rarely orders the carriage ; 
now he can ride, walking is preferred for his own exercise. Soon, a 
second fit takes place ; this time, Glisson's capsule usually yields ; but 
the thickened peritoneum, although pushed farther out, still resists, and 
now remains the single stay between human perversity and certain 
death. 

With recovery, the former custom is again resumed ; the man chooses 
to think a sick horse must require support ; the master pleases to imagine 
rest must be beneficial to an animal which has been seriously ill. 
Another fit ensues ; no one is much alarmed this time. The people have 
become accustomed to the sort of thing ; men soon grow used to other's 

11 



162 CRIB-BITING. 

agony. However, something is now present whieh has not been wit- 
nessed before ; that circumstance rather disturbs the reigning equanimity ; 
the horse is evidently much disposed to quietude, but some hidden cause 
excites it; it rolls, flings itself down, struggles up again, paws with the 
fore feet, kicks with the hind legs at the belly, and breathes with much 
more difficulty than formerly. 

Often it lies upon the back for some minutes ; the result, when such 
symptoms are observed, generally is invariable. After death, the abdo- 
men is opened ; the cavity is full of black blood, which, commonly, does 
not coagulate ; though, should death occur upon the first attack, dark 
clots may be found among the intestines. 

With regard to the treatment, which the author approves, it consists 
of the drink previously recommended; sufficient but nutritious food, and, 
above all things, abundant exercise. The horse should also be removed 
from the heated stable and allowed a large, roomy, loose box. Purga- 
tive medicine is too debilitating for such a disease ; but the bowels 
should be regulated by green meat or by bran mashes, when such agents 
are required. 

CRIB-BITING. 

Toothing more forcibly illustrates the ignorance by which the horse is 
surrounded, than the manner any trivial but visible fact is magnified into 
vast and mysterious importance. The untutored always have active 
imaginations ; thus, what is at worst, in the author's opinion, the decla- 
ration of acidity within the stomach, is by most horsemen dreaded more 
than an actual disease. 

Cribbing is very common among horses which have been long inhabit- 
ants of the stable ; the many hours of stagnation the domesticated horse 
is doomed to pass, may induce the animal readily to seize upon any soli- 
tary pastime. Or the perpetual consumption of oats and hay may dis- 
arrange the digestion, which, experience teaches, is in ourselves much 
benefited by a moderate change of diet. Or, the constant inhalation of 
close and impure air, such as will taint the clothes of the groom, who is 
much exposed to it, may disorder that part of the body which is the 
most sympathetic of the entire frame. 

Adopt which of these theories the reader may be inclined to, all of 
them can be brought to bear upon the horse so affected. That cribbing 
is a habit is seemingly proved by the young horse, stalled next to an 
old cribber, soon acquiring the custom. That cribbing is provoked by 
idleness, appears to be in some measure confirmed by the horse never 
exhibiting the peculiarity before it has been handled and become an 
occupant of the stable. That it arises from acrimony, induced by the 



CRIB-BITING. 163 

food, is apparently shown by the colt, while at grass, never displaying 
the symptom. That it will be witnessed in the old horse, when turned 
out for a month's run at grass, establishes nothing. The temporary 
visitor to the field may often be seen galloping toward some gate, which, 
having reached, the horse there commences a long game at crib-biting. 
This circumstance can settle nothing, except that the digestion is chron- 
ically deranged — the stomach, when thus affected, being peculiarly reten- 
tive of its morbid condition. 

Crib-biting consists in resting the upper incisor teeth against any 
solid or firm substance ; a fixed point is thus 
gained, and, after much effort, a small por- 
tion of gas is eructated. The perpetual 
emissions of heated air is, in man, one of 
the symptoms attendant on indigestion ; and 
the act, in the horse, appears to be impelled 
by something stronger than habit ; since the 
animal will leave the most tempting proven- 
der for its indulgence. 

The premonitory symptoms, moreover, 
seem to declare heartburn to be the cause 

of this much-dreaded indulgence. The cus- ;, horse in the act or crib-biung. 
torn is always preceded by licking of the 

manger. If on that there should be iron, or should any part be cooler than 
the rest, to that particular spot attention will be paid. The licking of 
cold substances is a symptom of disordered stomach with other dumb 
creatures. It is prominently displayed by the dog when the viscus is in- 
flamed. But crib-biting may be prevented, if attacked during the pre- 
monitory stage. Any substance, which acts as a stimulant to the stomach, 
is said to be beneficial. Salt is known as an almost necessary condi- 
ment, aiding the healthfulness of human food. The deprivation of salt 
was an old criminal punishment among the Dutch ; and a lump of rock- 
salt placed in the manger will often enable the horse's digestion to 
recover its lost tone. 

Crib-biting has, in submission to general opinion, been alluded to as a 
habit, learned within the stable. But may not that which man designates 
a habit in a dumb creature, be no more than the influence of one atmo- 
sphere acting similiarly on two bodies, both caged in the same stable ? 
The air is much more than inhaled. A large quantity is swallowed with 
the saliva. No slight amount is deglutated with the masticated food. 
The water is generally kept in the stable some hours before the horses 
are permitted to imbibe it. Water has a large affinity for atmosphere. 
Air, therefore, enters largely into the body, besides being continually 




164 CRIB-BITING. 

• 
absorbed by the blood during respiration. And- moreover, is it not 
strange that all horses, when indulging an imitative faculty, should always 
precede the display by the same licking of the manger, which assuredly is 
not learned, because that stage has passed before the young horse is placed 
near the one it is supposed to imitate ? Is it not also surprising, that 
applying the tongue to cool substances should, in other domesticated 
but dumb creatures, be a symptom of derangement of the stomach ? 

When the horse cribs, the manger is not bitten. The upper incisors 
are merely placed against the wood-work, and, from this fixed point, the 
animal strains backward the body ; thereby, the muscles of the neck are 
the more readily excited, and a small portion of air, accompanied by a 
slight sound, is forced up a canal which does not of itself favor regurgi- 
tation. When the inability to vomit is considered, the necessity of some 
such stratagem, to relieve the stomach of its burning acidity, must at 
once be admitted. We are still further reconciled to the necessity which 
prompts the action, when the ease afforded to human dyspeptic subjects, 
by the expulsion of "the wind," is properly regarded. 

To relieve crib-biting, first attend to the atmosphere of the stables ; 
render that pure by ample ventilation. Place a lump of rock-salt in the 
manger ; should that not effect a cure, add to it a large piece of chalk ; 
should these be unavailing, always damp the food, and, at each time of 
feeding, sprinkle magnesia upon it, and mingle a large handful of ground 
oak-bark with each feed of corn. Should none of these measures prove 
beneficial, treat the case as one of chronic indigestion or gastritis. 

Let every reader, however, remember dyspepsia is far easier acquired 
than eradicated or even relieved ; still, the vast majority of the fears 
entertained concerning crib-biting are perfectly groundless. The habit, 
certainly, does not round the edges of the front teeth; neither does it 
predispose to spasm or to flatulent colic ; a horse that cribs may have either 
diseases ; so, also, do many animals which are free from the peculiarity. 
Cribbing can be no recommendation to a purchaser, although the writer 
cannot honestly point to the direction in which it is detrimental to the 
usefulness. The late Mr. Sewell had a brown horse : this creature was 
eighteen years old, and an inveterate cribber ; yet, it would trot nine 
miles an hour, for its own pace, without ever needing the whip. More 
than this, no horse master should require ; but let those who entertain a 
horror of crib-biting, pay extra attention to the means by which the 
indulgence can be prevented. 



CHAPTER YIII. 

THE ABDOMEN — ITS ACCIDENTS AND ITS DISEASES. 




ENTERITIS. 

The nose turned forcibly upward in horses is only expressive of gen- 
eral abdominal disease. The author has witnessed this symptom during 
the earliest stage of enteritis. It is 
frequently exhibited when no disturb- 
ance calling for treatment is known to 
be present, or can be subsequently ob- 
served. Still, because it is sometimes the 
earliest warning of intestinal disorder, 
all horses displaying such a peculiarity 
should receive pointed attention. „„„ „„„„ „ 

r THE NOSE STRAINED VIOLENTLY UPWARD IS 

Enteritis is a fearful disease, creat- ■* general symptom op abdominal irri- 

' TATION. 

ing the greatest possible agony. Aged 

horses are specially exposed to this scourge, which can rage with un- 
governable fury from the commencement, and consume the life in eight 
hours. Its causes, unfortunately, are in a great measure purely conjec- 
tural ; such as drinking cold water, etc. etc. 

These incentives are formally recounted in books; but surely some- 
thing is wanted to complete the catalogue. If all the animals exposed 
to the operation of such provocatives were to have enteritis, two-thirds 
of the horses inhabiting Great Britain would be dead by to-morrow 
morning. The principal thing, therefore, is the predisposition; incline 
toward a particular malady, and any triviality may start up the disease ; 
yet this predisposition we at present are too ignorant to recognize. 

A severe fit of colic, long continued, may end in enteritis. This is 
well known ; yet it was not the colic which induced enteritis ; but the 
real cause was that which originated the first affection. The predispo- 
sition must be present before the bowels would exhibit that inflammation 
into which the colic merged; the injudicious and cruel treatment most 
horses receive from those to whose service the life is devoted, may prob- 
ably be accused as the root of all these evils ; disease is the loudest 
proof that the life is stinted in some essential particular. The same 
food is placed before all horses ; one animal will, however, purge upon 

(165) 



166 ElNTElllTlS. 

exertion ; labor, on the other hand, may constipate the fellow occupant 
of the same stable. When the same effect has produced such opposite 
causes, all the bodies cannot be alike; an old proverb asserts "that 
which is one man's food is another man's poison." The diet which sup- 
ports one animal in health may loosen or constringe its companion; yet 
we are too ignorant to practically use such distinctions. 

Again, there is no practice more general than to load the rack and 
pile the manger after any uncommon toil has been endured. The prac- 
tice may originate in the best intentions ; but no intention can convert 
that which is evil into a positive good. The wretched animal is tempted 
to cram the stomach when excessive labor has weakened the vital func- 
tions. Horses which are brought home late at night do not usually 
receive much notice ; the grooms are sleepy and eager for their beds. 
The dressing of the animal, however much such attention might conduce 
to health, is consequently left to the following morning. Rapid motion 
quickens the circulation ; the blood is sent to the skin, and copious per- 
spiration is the result.- However warm the stable may be, warmth only 
promotes evaporation ; cold of the lowest degree results from evapora- 
tion ; the consequence is, the body of the quadruped speedily shivers ; 
the blood is repelled to the internal organs, the bowels are prepared for 
inflammation, and thus enteritis often follows upon the midnight return 
from a long journey. 

Moreover, when the frame is exhausted, rest is far more essential than 
food ; the nourishment then should be very light, and such as can be 
quickly swallowed. A quart of thick flour or of oatmeal gruel should 
be first offered after the return. When the cleansing of the animal's 
body is finished, another quart should be given ; these will occupy little 
time in being put out of sight, and the administration need not interfere 
with the repose which is desired. The gruel being swallowed, a feed of 
crushed and scalded oats may be placed in the manger ; no hay should 
be allowed ; the wish is to sustain a debilitated body, not to blow out 
an idle stomach. Then the creature should, after being fully clothed, be 
left to itself, and no more nourishment be provided for that night. The 
danger of introducing substances into a stomach dead to its functions 
would thus be avoided ; nothing likely to irritate or to operate as foreign 
bodies upon the bowels would be set before the debilitated horse. 
Besides, the groom would be obliged to remain up for some space, and, 
as a good servant always finds time hang heavy when without occu- 
pation, the animal is more likely to be dressed before the man retires. 
Moreover, the clothes would prevent the cold which ensues upon 
unchecked evaporation. 

Constipation, if permitted to exist for any period, is always danger- 



ENTERITIS. 167 

ous ; hardened feces are one of the surest causes of enteritis. Disre- 
garding this fact, the endeavor of the immediate age seems to be to keep 
horses cheap. Strange mixtures are now substituted for wholesome 
corn, in which the grain and husk are mingled, the one supporting the 
strength, the other stimulating the bowels. It is folly to seek for profit 
from a life, and to stint the nourishment which feeds the strength, or to 
view cheapness as desirable where the service is unlimited. It is wicked 
to imprison a living being and then to regard it only in connection with 
our conveniences ; " much care and no spare " is a good stable proverb. 
The food makes the work ; omnibus masters know this fact ; their horses 
perform hard work and eat of the best, however abominably the gener- 
ality of these slaves were once lodged. The home of a London horse 
is mostly a miserable hole : heated only by fermentation ; too often un- 
drained ; nearly always without sufficient ventilation. The stall of such 
a building is large enough for the animal to stand in and not wide 
enough for the recumbent frame to rest in ; the roof is low, and the re- 
fuse of the body is piled near the entrance. When will man learn that 
his interest is best consulted by the proper observances due to vitality 
in every form ? A horse cannot be treated as though it were a jug ; it 
cannot be placed upon a shelf and taken down when required. The 
functions which nature has placed within a beautiful and exquisitely 
framed body will, if thus regarded, soon become deranged. Sickness 
will soon cost more money than health would have required for its sus- 
tainment; and, in the end, he who strives to blend the animate and the 
inanimate will speedily find himself possessed only of the latter descrip- 
tion of property. 

The predisposing cause may, in most instances, be difficult to discover; 
but the premonitory symptoms of enteritis are well marked. The animal 
is dull and heavy. It may not notice aught about it, or it picks at its 
food ; repeated and violent shivering fits usher in the attack. When the 
above characteristic signs are observed, at once take away all hay and 
corn. Bandage the legs, which will be cold; clothe the body, and, if 
already dressed, loosen the surcingle. Litter well the stall or remove 
the horse to a loose box; give two or three drinks, one every quarter 
of an hour, containing sulphuric ether and laudanum, of each one 
ounce ; water, half a pint ; and observe the animal without disturbing it. 
These symptoms are, however, generally unseen, because the groom is 
between the bedclothes while his charge is suffering. 

The primary symptoms of decided enteritis are termed ''colic" or 
"fret." Such words simply represent bellyache; but hai-ra is done and 
valuable time lost, if the terms of the stable are accepted in any abso- 
lute signification. Grooms always have some invaluable nostrum hoarded 



168 ENTERITIS. 

np ; such people are proud of and confident in their secret knowledge ; 
they will lie rather than communicate the contents of their charm. With 
the best hopes the foolish servant will waste precious moments in use- 
less expectation, and watch for results from an injurious or worthless 
potion till the time when curative measures could have been effective 
has passed. Never permit the men who clean the horses also to admin- 
ister to their diseases ; the poor fellows may mean well, but they can 
have no knowledge which, in the presence of danger, can be beneficial. 

The primary symptom, to an uninformed observer, may simply an- 
nounce a mild fit of gripes. When the shivering has subsided, the 
horse rolls, plunges, kicks, etc. etc., as he does in spasmodic colic. The 
struggles, however, are less abandoned and far more mannered in inflam- 
mation of the bowels, than in genuine spasm. The pain, moreover, 
which in enteritis accompanies all movements of the diaphragm, throws 
the labor of respiration upon the walls of the thorax. The ribs can 
only partially dilate the lungs; nature endeavors by quickening the 
motion to supply the deficiency. In colic, the breathing is at first only 
excited by the exertion ; it is deep and full. At the commencement of 
spasm, the mouth is moist and in temperature 
natural; during enteritis, the breathing is very 
short and the mouth is always hot and dry. 

The pulse is disturbed only as colic pro- 
gresses ; in enteritis it is quick, hard, and wiry, 
before the disorder is fully established. The 
term " wiry " well represents the kind of pulse 
which accompanies enteritis. If a thin metallic 
cord were to strike the finger ends somewhat 
gently, and about seventy times in a minute, it 

THE TEST FOR ENTERITIS AT THE "^^^^^ ^P^^t thc samc scusation as is commu- 
coMMENCEMENi OF THE AT- nlcatcd by thc beat of the artery during in- 
flammation of the bowels. Besides, pressure in 
colic seems to ease the anguish; in enteritis, the horse often cannot 
bear to have the abdomen touched. The last symptom, however, is 
not always present, neither is there one, save those characteristic of 
general inflammation, which is invariably to be observed. In abdominal 
disease, so many organs are influenced that everything becomes, in a 
vast degree, mystery and confusion. Notwithstanding this, pressure, in 
enteritis, never afi'ords relief; sometimes, however, the hand placed upon 
the belly will elicit the most energetic response. The horse will kick 
with the hind leg, turn round the head, and violently snap the jaws 
together. Then he who applied so rude a test must stand out of the 
reach of the hind foot, at the same time watching the head. Thus all 




ENTERITIS. 



169 



danger is readily avoided; because the ears, the eyes, and nostrils of 
the horse express its intentions before these are carried into effect. 




THE TEST OF PRESSURE TO THE ABDOMEN FOR ENTERITIS. 

All the tests will, however, not warrant certainty. The heat and dry- 
ness of the mouth may proceed from bodily exhaustion; the pulse, 
though highly suspicious, may merely denote general disturbance rather 
than declare tlie particular locality of a disorder. The peculiarity of 
the breathing may only express temporary faintness ; the resistance to 
pressure is common to many horses while in health, and the restrained 
method of the plunges may be consequent upon the absence of any in- 
citive to greater energy ; still, when all are put together, they imply a 
great deal. Faintness and exhaustion are not to be reconciled with a 
hard pulse ; the heat of the mouth and the resistance to pressure, espe- 
cially when united to the voluntary restraint 
imposed upon the motion, certainly warrant 
a strong inference, and sanction no belief 
that colic is the sufferer's complaint. Hap- 
pily, however, there remains a mode of 
assuring the most hesitating individual. 
The coat must be pulled off, the shirt- 
sleeves rolled up, and the arm be well 
greased or thoroughly soaped. About this 
there must be no false delicacy : in human 
surgery and in veterinary practice many 
things have to be surmounted which do not 
read well when described in cold print. In 

this instance, the intention is to relieve a suffering life ; the motive will 
elevate the act. The fingers of the right hand are to be compressed, 
while the left hand raises the tail ; the position is on the left side, as near 




A CERTAIN TEST FOR ENTERITIS. 



lYO ENTERITIS. 

to tLe feet as may be possible. Being there, the points of the compressed 
fingers are brought to bear upon the center of the anus; gentle and 
equable pressure is maintained until the resistance of the sphincter mus- 
cle is tired out; even then, no haste is warranted. Upon the hand 
penetrating the body, a cavity is entered ; here there is generally some 
dung, the removal of which constitutes what is called "back-raking." 
In enteritis, the excrement is hard, dry, offensive, in small and dark 
lumps, upon the surface of which lie streaks of white mucus. This being 
done, the arm must be regreased or again moistened with water, and the 
hand gradually advanced to ascertain the temperature of the intestines. 
If the health be undisturbed, the operator will be conscious only of a 
genial glow ; should inflammation exist, the augmentation of the natural 
heat will be most decided. 

All is then certainty ; no further doubt is justifiable, and no additional 
symptom need be looked for. The nature of the case is determined, 
and should it be enteritis, every moment is indeed precious. Firstly, 
neither bleed nor purge. A particular kind of venesection, however, 
is allowed. Extract one quart of blood, and inject into the vein one 
pint of blood-warm water ; a profuse purgation and perspiration almost 
immediately follows the disappearance of the fluid. Much uncertainty 
is thus spared; and two conditions, both favorable to recovery, are 
induced. 

For this operation a quart syringe should be employed ; a fine curved 
nozzle should be affixed to it for the convenience of inser- 
tion down the vein; the tube connected with the handle 
should be marked to show when a pint has been forced out 
of the instrument. 

The reason for using a larger and a less handy machine 
than seems absolutely necessary to perform a delicate opera- 
tion is, because nearly all syringes suck up a portion of 
air, which, when the instrument is almost empty, comes 
forth. Now breath or atmosphere, or gas of any kind in- 
jected into a living vessel, speedily destroys life. To pre- 
vent so fearful an accident the enlarged capacity of the 
syringe is recommended. 

The water being injected, should the pulse regain its 

THE 8TEIN0E TO O J » r D 

INJECT INTO inflammatory character, mingle half a drachm of aconite 

THE JUGULAR •' ° 

VEIN DURING root, in powder, with every subsequent antispasmodic 

ENTEBITIS. *■ ./I 1 

draught. The ethereal drenches must be continued, be- 
cause pain of the intestines is always obstinate, and we cannot be cer- 
tain how far spasm may cause the agony, seeing that a form of colic 
always attends on enteritis. 




ENTERITIS. 



m 



Aconite root, in powder Half a drachm. 

Sulphuric ether Three ounces. 

Laudanum Three ounces. 

Extract of belladonna One drachm. 

(Rubbed down in water) One pint and a half. 

These drinks should be administered as the pain, pulse, and the gen' 
eral appearance seem to demand them; they may be employed every 
quarter of an hour if requisite. When the pulse is quiet, withdraw the 
aconite; should the pain subside, remove the belladonna. The ether 
and laudanum may be diminished as the horse appears to be more com- 
fortable. 

Should the symptoms denote a dead, lingering pain in the abdomen, 
after the administration of the eighth drink, procure some strong liquor 
ammonia. Dilute this with six times its bulk of cold water. Saturate 
a stout cloth with the dilution ; lay the cloth upon several folds of rug ; 




THE APPLICATION OF AN AMMONIACAL BLISTER IN ENTERITIS. 



obtain four resolute men with not very sensitive eyes or noses, and let 
them hold the cloth close to the animal's abdomen. 

The action of the ammonia must be from time to time observed. It 
is a most powerful agent ; in certain states it can blister in ten minutes ; 
in other conditions, it requires half an hour to take that effect. It is 
very uncertain ; but, if held too long, it may dissolve the skin and leave 
behind a fearful sore, which will establish a lasting blemish. He who 
employs it will understand he is using that which must not be abused. 
The removal of the cloth allows the ammonia to evaporate, and, conse- 
quently, at any moment effectually checks all further action. 

When all is accomplished, should the progress of the disease be effect- 
ually stayed, but the cure not be complete, sprinkle on the tongue the 
following powder every second hour : — 



172 ACUTE DYSENTERY. 

Calomel Half a drachm. 

Opium One drachm. 

But stop all the other medicine as soon as the subsidence of the symp- 
toms will permit. The food is now of all importance : bran, in enteritis, 
is positive poison; mashes are not to be thought of; linseed is too feed- 
ing for an inflammatory subject. The same objection may be taken to 
gruel ; hay tea, or pails of boiling water poured upon a pound of flour, 
must sustain the body for the first day after recovery ; on the next day, 
a feed of boiled roots may be introduced, but not the whole quantity 
at once ; that must be divided into three meals. Then the amount may 
be doubled, and thus the full bulk of provender be by degrees attained ; 
afterward a few crushed and scalded oats may be mixed with the rest at 
each meal ; but it should be some time before hay is permitted to irritate 
and distend the lately inflamed surfaces. 

Enteritis is a fearful disorder ; he who has witnessed one death by that 
terrible malady should have received an awful rebuke. The post-mor- 
tem examination best describes the violence of the affection. The in- 
testines, generally the large intestines, are black and swollen; often in 
color they approach to a green. Their structure is destroyed ; they tear 
upon a touch, and are so loaded with inflamed blood that one division 
of the bowels may form no inconsiderable burden for a strong man. 

The above directions, the intelligent reader will fully comprehend, are 
not pronounced in any absolute sense. No two cases of any violent dis- 
order are precisely similar; the forms, therefore, prescribed in these 
pages admit of variations. They are given only as suited to the gener- 
ality of attacks ; they may be lessened or augmented, as circumstances 
demand or as discretion dictates. It would be as easy to make a shoe 
which should fit all feet, as to name medicines or point out the quanti- 
ties which should be adapted to all maladies. 

ACUTE DYSENTERY. 

Diarrhoea may be banished from the list of diseases to which horse- 
flesh is liable. Certain animals will purge during work; others will 
scour upon the smallest change of diet; such peculiarities, however, 
mostly check themselves ; they demand very slight or no remedial treat- 
ment. Unlike diarrhoea in the human subject, they never terminate in 
death ; but dysentery is as violent as diarrhoea is mild. The length and 
size of the intestines render any disease within them a very serious 
affair. There are two kinds of dysentery, the acute and the chronic; 
the acute form of disease will constitute the subject of the present, 
article. 



ACUTE DYSENTERY. 



173 



The cause of acute dysentery is always some acrid substance taken 
into the stomach — generally aloes, combined with some preparation of 
croton; other substances will, however, induce an inflammatory purga- 
tion. Such a result may ensue upon the injudicious use of arsenic, cor- 
rosive sublimate, tartar emetic, blue-stone, etc. etc. Many of these 
substances will be eaten if mixed with the corn — the instinct which pro- 
tects the lives of other animals being destroyed in the horse by ages of 
domestication. Others may be ignorantly administered with the very 
best of intention. 

The symptoms often are obscure at the commencement; there is ab- 
dominal pain ; so there is in most intestinal disorders. The agony may 
readily be mistaken for the pangs attendant on spasmodic colic. On 
other occasions, the suffering may be slight, not even sufficient at first to 
destroy the appetite. No poison acts upon two bodies in precisely the 
same manner ; violent purgation is generally the first marked sign which 
makes known the nature of the disorder. The feces soon become mere 
discolored water ; the thirst is then excessive ; the stench is most offen- 
sive ; the pulse, from being hard, shortly becomes thick and feeble, and 
ultimately it is intermittent ; the countenance is haggard ; the position 
of the body expresses abdominal pain. Perspirations break forth in 
patches ; tympanitis starts up, and death speedily ensues. 

It- is of little use to inquire, while the animal is suffering, what has 




A HOBSE SUmRINO mOH DRASTIC POISON. 



provoked the superpurgation ; it is then most desirable, if possible, to 
remove the effect. The best chance of accomplishing this is by destroying 



174 ACUTE DYSENTERY. 

the pain that exhausts the strength, thereby affording nature the better 
chance of vanquishing the irritation. Ether, opium, belladonna, chalk, 
and catechu present the best means of doing this. These agents, when 
combined, support the body, allay the anguish, and check the purgation ; 
blended with thick linseed tea, which will in some measure supply the 
mucus lost to the bowels, they therefore form a good drink for most 
occasions. 

Sulphuric ether One ounce. 

Laudanum Three ounces. 

* Liquor potassae Half an ounce. 

Powdered chalk One ounce. 

Tincture of catechu One ounce. 

Cold linseed tea One pint. 

Give, throughout the acute stage, every quarter of an hour. 

At the same time cleanse the quarters, plait up the tail, and throw up 
copious injections of cold linseed tea. Expect the horse to become 
greatly prostrated when amendment commences. The entire of the irri- 
tating agent must be expelled from the body before improvement can be 
witnessed. The subsequent recovery is announced by a pause in the 
symptoms; the disease appears to be stationary, whereas previously 
everything denoted a hastening termination. 

That pause is one of suspense, for no one can say what will follow ; some- 
times the cessation of agony precedes immediate dissolution ; sometimes 
recovery dates from that event. The animal, upon the slightest change 
being exhibited, must still be assiduously attended. Care must never 
cease ; and, after recovery is confirmed, the food for a week must con- 
sist of linseed tea, hay tea, and gruel. On the expiration of the week, 
a few boiled roots may be added, three of the drinks previously ordered 
being administered every day. Do not bother about the bowels ; no 
matter, should the animal be constipated for a fortnight subsequent to 
the thorough emptying of acute dysentery. Upon the termination of a 
fortnight, stop all medicine, and allow some crushed, scalded oats and 
beans ; withdraw some of the slops as the solids advance ; but let a full 
month expire before a drop of cold water or a mouthful of hay are per- 
mitted to be swallowed. 

To escape the loss of so large a piece of property as a living horse, 
it is imperative the notion should be abandoned which asserts that be- 
cause the horse can swallow most opening medicines with impunity, a 
strong purgative cannot otherwise than benefit the animal; the deduc- 
tion is not fairly drawn. But not to follow up too closely so lame a 
prey: aloes is the general purgative in the stable; it is a drug which 
should never be intrusted to the hands of the groom. The difference 



CHRONIC DYSENTERY. l-jS 

between the necessary and the poisonous dose is too close for the un- 
educated to comprehend it; more horses have been slaughtered with 
aloes than have perished from all the other poisons conjoined. Yet 
grooms are particularly fond of this medicine; the dangerous drug 
enters into every ball which is popular in the stable; no matter how 
opposite the end desired may be, in the groom's opinion aloes must 
produce it. Like the majority of the uneducated, the stable-man re- 
joices in a strong purge. Tenesmus is his delight ; he loves to see six- 
teen or eighteen full motions, and then he cannot comprehend why the 
horse is weak, since the physic passed beautifully through him I 

Of all persons living, grooms generally are the most prejudiced and 
the worst informed. All advice is disregarded; should the master 
speak, the groom shakes his head, and, after the lecture is ended, in- 
quires of himself, " what the old bufifer can know about it ?" Here is 
the curse of horses ! Gentlemen transfer them to the custody of the 
uneducated. The groom is accepted as an authority ; the master asks 
for and is mostly governed by the opinion of an inferior. No other 
servant possesses such a power ; no domestic more abuses his position ; 
the carriage and the harness maker, the corn merchant, and the veteri- 
nary surgeon all pay this person five per cent, upon the employer's bills ; 
nothing comes on to the premises but the man claims a profit from it ; 
nothing leaves the stable but is regarded as his perquisite. He thus, 
while occupying a situation of trust, has an absolute interest in the ex- 
travagance of the expenditure. Wear and tear of the articles over 
which he watches brings to him actual emolument ; his interest and his 
duty are at war, and when a weak person has to decide the battle, it is 
easy to understand on which part the victory will be declared, 

CHRONIC DYSENTERY. 

This affliction is not so common among horses as it is with cattle; 
neither is it so frequent at the present day as it appears to have formerly 
been. Once it was termed "molten grease," from an unfounded notion 
that liquid fat was discharged with the feces. Now it is known that what 
our ancestors took for grease is no more than the mucus, which is ex- 
pelled during every form of severe intestinal irritation. 

The cause of chronic dysentery among horses is not well understood. 
It is said to follow diarrhoea; but such an explanation seems to con- 
found the commencement of one disorder with the establishment of 
another disease. Horses having chronic dysentery are, generally, old 
animals, which are subject to the will of a very poor or a very penurious 
man. They are badly kept, and may have to grub a scanty living from 



176 CHRONIC DYSENTERY. 

lanes and hedgerows ; also, they are goaded to hard work upon watery 
food and sour grass. In such cases, disturbance of the bowels should 
be early attended to. The food should be immediately changed. Good 
sound oats and beans should be freely given, while the following drink is 
administered thrice daily : — 

Crude opium Half an ounce. 

Liquor potassse One ounce. 

Chalk One ounce. 

Tincture of all-spice One ounce. 

Alum Half an ounce. 

Mix with a quart of good ale, stir brisldy, and give. 

Should the primary symptom not be attended to, profuse purgation 
may ensue without excitement ; but always will happen upon any exer- 
tion or the drinking of cold water. Violent straining often follows; 
the belly enlarges; the flesh wastes; the bones protrude; the skin is 
hide-bound; the visible mucous membranes become pallid; weakness 
increases; perspiration often bursts forth without occasion; the horse 
will stand still for hours, not grazing, nor seemingly being conscious that 
grass was within its reach. 

At length a living skeleton alone remains of that which was a horse. 
The eyes have a sleepy, sad, and pathetic expression ; the head is often 



V V 




A HORSE SUFFERING UNDER CHRONIC STSENIERT. 



turned slowly toward the flanks; the sight remains fixed for some 
moments upon the seat of pain; the horse stands on one spot, or only 
changes it when the bowels are about to act; colic at length sets in, 



CHRONIC DYSENTERY. ITT 

though frequently it is present earlier ; and the wretched quadruped then 
fades speedily away. 

It is a general practice to turn animals suffering from chronic dysen- 
tery upon some village common. The horse is put there with scanty 
food and no shelter, under a plea of humanity, or "to give the old 'oss a 
last chance." There can be no feeling in placing a diseased animal far 
away from sight or help, where it must pine, shiver, and starve, in a 
dreary solitude. 

Supposing the affected life to be claimed by a generous master, either 
of the following drinks may be given, thrice daily : — 

Sulphuric ether One ounce. 

Laudanum Three ounces. 

Liquor potassae Half an ounce. 

Powdered chalk One ounce. 

Tincture of catechu One ounce. 

Cold linseed tea One pint. 

Choloroform Half an ounce. 

Extract of belladonna Half a drachm. 

Carbonate of ammonia One drachm. 

Powdered camphor Half a drachm. 

Tincture of oak bark One ounce. 

Cold linseed tea One pint. 

The above drinks may be changed, as either appears to have ceased to 
operate. The food should be of the best and lightest description. Boiled 
roots, boiled linseed, boiled rice, crushed and boiled malt, etc. etc.; no 
hay. The body should be frequently dressed, and always clothed. A 
good bed ought to be allowed. The lodging must be well drained and 
roomy. 

Yet, after all this trouble, a speedy cure is not to be expected; and 
rarely does an old horse, should it recover, prove highly useful. How 
sad, however, is that condition where the continuance of the life is made 
conditional upon the service of the body — where interest is the only 
motive which permits existence ! No sympathy to be anticipated in suf- 
fering ; no pity in disease I The only feeling that actuates the custodian 
is a cold regard for the gain which the jaded being can yet bring him. A 
life of usefulness, years of toil, injuries sustained and accidents sur- 
mounted, — all cannot win a day's respite from the doom which attends 
the creature whose exertions in man's service have led to the disablement 
of its powers. Such, however, is the fate of the horse in England, which 
land specially boasts it is a "Christian country." 

Chronic dysentery is the inheritance which the horse earns from being 
subjected to the dominion of man. Excessive labor, filthy lodging, and 

12 



Its ACITES. 

innutritions diet are the causes. Each of these causes increases as the 
age advances. 

Prior to its domestication, the horse might not have found on every 
spot an abundance of excellent fodder; but then it was at liberty to seek 
a better fare in another place. Man has taken away all power of choice ; 
he forces the creature to toil, and obliges it to eat only that which par- 
simony may afford to place before it. When so vast and so absolute a 
power is claimed, it becomes a positive duty to see the mere animal 
necessities are satisfied : it is cruel folly to tax the powers and to stint 
the body. It is a crime to undertake a trust and then confide the fulfill- 
ment of its responsibility to an ignorant inferior. It is a sin to seize on 
life and to neglect the prisoner you hold in captivity. Where existence 
is claimed as a property, and animation is forced to wear out being in 
labor for the master's profit, surely the least obligation the superior could 
own should be the provision of ample lodging and fitting sustenance! 
Both are withheld from the aged horse. 

ACITES, OR DROPSY OF THE ABDOMEN. 

In the horse, acute peritonitis is unknown, save as the result of oper- 
ation ; then its fury takes possession of the cavity and generally refuses 
to yield to medicine. It is different, however, with chronic peritonitis, 
which, though not a common disorder, is too often encountered to be 
esteemed a rare disease. It is, when early noticed, tractable; but the 
earlier symptoms are generally not understood. The first sign is a rag- 
ged coat and a tender state of the abdomen ; the horse, which was pas- 
sive previously, now shrinks from the curry-comb ; snaps and kicks at him 
who dresses it. Such actions are viewed as denoting a return of spirit. 
Intending to encourage the favorite quality of the stable, the flank is 
violently struck or slapped by the servant; and the indication forced 
from a dumb animal by agony, is by grooms regarded as the proof of 
reviving animation. 

Masters should, in justice to themselves if from no higher motive, visit 
the stable more frequently than is their custom. The horse is all gentle- 
ness and simplicity ; a groom only knows less about the animal than a 
child, for he has acquired notions which induce him to misinterpret plain 
actions. Every owner of a stable should learn to feel and count the 
horse's pulse ; he should be acquainted with the normal standard and its 
healthy character; chronic peritonitis might then early be discovered. 
The pulse under this disease is hard and small, it vibrates about sixty 
times in a minute. The head is pendulous; the food is oftener spoiled, 
rather scattered about than eaten; the membranes are pale and the 



ACiTES. ng 

mouth is dry; pressure upon the abdomen elicits a groan, and turning 
in the stall always calls forth a grunt. 

When such symptoms are observed, the food should be small in bulk, 
but nutritious in quality; no work should be imposed; the medicine 
should be tonic and alterative. 

Strychnia A quarter of a grain, worked gradually up to one 

grain. 
Iodide of iron Half a drachm, worked gradually up to one 

drachm and a half. 
Extract of belladonna . . One scruple. 
Extract of gentian ... A sufficiency. 
Powdered quassia ... A sufficiency. 
Make into a ball ; give one at night and at morning. 

Small blisters should succeed each other upon the abdomen; but as 
these cases are always tedious and very much depends upon the consti- 
tution of the animal, charity alone should propose such a disease for 
treatment, as the general termination of the malady is incurable dropsy 
of the abdomen. 

Acites offers a good illustration of the loss inhumanity brings down 
upon man, and of the gain which would attend a loftier conduct. Chronic 
peritonitis attacks aged animals ; such horses are used only for harness 
purposes. Few masters inquire what propels the carriage, so the vehicle 
gets over the ground. TJie affected quadruped cannot drag its own 
body ; thus more than double duty is cast upon the sound steed. The 
single horse has not only to draw the entire carriage and its load, but it 
also has to pull along its disabled companion. Servants frequently hide 
defects, hoping that time will remedy them, or dreading the reception 
proverbially given to the bearer of bad tidings ; thus the sound horse 
ultimately fails, while the sick animal is rendered worse by violent 
exercise. 

However, with the honesty which seems to prevail in and around the 
stable, the diseased horse is often sent to the nearest market. The pro- 
prietor, under some strange, quibble of conscience, sells to another that 
which he is convinced is worthless. A rich master vends and a poor 
man buys ; the cheatery of such a bargain is obvious, but to such results 
always tend a violated contract. The natural contract between man and 
horse is outraged ; a conditional gift is construed to imply an uncondi- 
tional bestowal. The terms are warped according to the convenience 
of the receiver ; the possibility of any obligation being implied is never 
suspected. A few, and very few good people, from feeling only fulfill 
the conditions of the bond ; but kindness, when bestowed upon the horse, 
is regarded as a weakness and a gratuity. From the highest to the 



180 



ACITES. 



lowest, none think that all of animated creatures are born with rights; 
no one behaves as though domesticated animals were only intrusted to 
the care of man. Violation of moral conditions begins the evil, which 
ends in cheatery and robbery of one another. 

The symptoms which announce that the serous membrane has effused 
water into the abdomen are a want of spirit; constant lying down and 
remaining in one position for a long period; perpetual restlessness; 
thirst; loss of appetite; thinness; weakness; enlarged abdomen; con- 
stipation and hide-bound. 

The enlargement of the belly has something peculiar in it ; the swell- 
ing lies toward the inferior portion of the abdomen. Near the loins 
there is apparently an empty space ; if the hand be placed on the en- 
largement, and another person strikes the belly on the opposite side, a 
sense of fluctuation can be distinctly felt. If the horse be thrown upon 
its back, the swelling will, with the change of position, gravitate toward 
the loins. At length small bags containing fluid depend from the chest 
and the inferior surface of the belly. Should the disease be suffered to 
progress, the sheath and one leg generally enlarge ; the hair of the mane 



v%:^ -^ 




A HORSE WITH ACITES, OB ABDOMINAl DROPSY. 



breaks off" and is easily pulled out. Where once hung the tail now re- 
mains little more than the dock with a few scattered hairs. Ultimately 
purgation starts up, which terminates the suffering. 

Of course, after effusion, all treatment is powerless — creatures in the 
last stage of dropsy presenting sights which the mind shudders to con- 
template; objects of this kind are sometimes to be seen on commons in 



INFLUENZA. 181 

the neighborhood of London. They are turned out to die miserably 
under the plea of humanity; the utmost limit of cruelty is justified or 
made pleasant by a pretense to sympathy. The poor horse literallj 
starves ; were there food to eat, the remaining strength would not serve 
to collect it. Still the proprietor is so very humane he cannot endure 
to destroy the property he has paid for ; the poor animal is therefore 
thrust forth to cheaply live, or to die without trouble to its owner. 

INFLUENZA. 

This affection may rage throughout the kingdom, or it may be located 
upon a very circumscribed spot. In a disorder so eccentric, it is very 
difficult to decide the question whether or not it is contagious ; it com- 
monly runs through the stable in which it appears; but it does not in- 
variably attack every animal within the building. It may, in a large 
edifice, first seize the horse nearest the door, then travel to the stall 
farthest from the entrance ; thus it skips about without regularity, and 
often spares many individuals. 

Occasionally influenza fixes upon an animal when in the field; but it 
is a more probable visitant of the stable : this is a seeming proof that 
the contagion does not reside in the air, since the atmosphere is as much 
as possible excluded from every mews. We may conjecture it is not 
dependent upon any vapor exuding from the earth, since the creatures 
whose noses are nearly always in contact with the herbage are, of all 
others, least liable to the afi'ection. 

It is terrible to contemplate the suffering and loss of life which have 
been consequent upon the errors of mankind. Influenza is regarded as 
a new disease ; a new name deceives the world, though it is more than 
probable that a disorder of a low, febrile, and typhoid character has 
prevailed among animals for many ages. Nature has, for thousands of 
years, been striving to enforce the self-evident truth that man is by 
moral obligation bound to provide for the welfare of the animal he 
enslaves. His gain or the inclination of his will can be no argument 
against the fulfillment of so plain a duty ; the implied contract, the com- 
mon parent of all living things, has been emphasizing with sickness and 
with death; all has been to no purpose. Cunning men have been 
employed, and nostrums have been invented to maintain misrule ; wealth 
has been sacrificed and ruin endured, to uphold an unrighteous cause; 
but the voice of nature pleading for her children has not been under- 
stood. 

Even at this day the old fault is to be met with on every hand ; it is 
exhibited by the rich as well as by the poor, by the highly educated and 



182 INFLUENZA. 

by the very ignorant. In every place exist horses. of fabulous excellence 
in the master's opinion, imprisoned within walls which exclude the vital 
air. The roof may not permit the animal's head to be raised, the sides 
may not allow the body to be turned ; the fumes within the walls shall 
oppress the lungs and sting the eyes of the man who enters the build- 
ing ; yet within a circumscribed space, so foul and pestilential, the horse 
is doomed to exist. Then the animal's disease is heard of with surprise, 
and its death is lamented as a misfortune 1 

What cause is there for grief or for wonder, if impurity does gener- 
ate disease and death ? What need has man to ape the martyr, because 
influenza starts from the contamination which by human will has been 
created ? The pest once originated sweeps onward, nor can mortal ex- 
clamation nor mortal sorrow check the course of the destroyer; all fall 
alike before the scourge. The filthy and the cleanly alike are stricken ; 
yet neither masters nor legislators can draw wisdom from the visitation. 

In influenza there is no difficulty in pointing to the structure affected ; 
it would, however, be hard to allude to the part which was not involved. 
The weakness and stupidity which accompany the affection declare the 
brain and nervous system to be diseased. Local swellings show the 
cellular tissue to be deranged; heat and pain in the limbs and joints 
announce the serous, the ligamentous, and osseous structures implicated. 
The muscular and digestive functions are acutely disordered ; the rapid 
wasting of the flesh demonstrate the absorbents are excited. There is 
no portion of the body which can escape the ravage of influenza. 

Youth, or rather the approach of adultism, is the favorite season of 
the attack, which is most prevalent during the spring time of the year. 
There is, however, no period or any age which are altogether exempt 
from its influence. 

All kinds of treatment have been experimented with. Bleeding, 
purging, blistering, setoning have all been tried, and each has destroyed 
more lives than the whole can boast of having saved ; experience has by 
slow degrees shown the inutility of active treatment. Bold measures, 
as those plans are termed which add to another's suffering, commonly 
end in hydrothorax or water on the chest. 

It is difficult to determine when the first symptom of influenza is 
present. The author is indebted to the acuteness of Mr. T. W. Gow- 
ing, Y. S., of Camden Town, for a knowledge of a marked indication 
declarative of the presence of influenza. A yellowness of the mucous 
membranes, best shown on the conjunctiva or white of the eye, is very 
characteristic. Whenever the sign is seen and sudden weakness re- 
marked, caution should be practiced, for it is ten to one that the pes- 
tilence is approaching. Influenza is a very simulative disorder; it has 



INFLUENZA. 



183 



appeared as larainitis ; disease of the lungs is, perhaps, its favorite type. 
Bowel complaints are apt to imitate each other ; blowing generally com- 
mences such disorders. But when influenza is prevalent, let the body's 
strength and the yellowness or redness of the membranes be always 
looked to before any more prominent indication is particularly observed. 

The other symptoms — which, however, are very uncertain, as regards 
any of them being present or absent — are pendulous head, short breath, 
inflamed membranes, swollen lips, dry mouth, enlarged eyelids, copious 
tears, sore throat, tucked up flanks, compressed tail, filled legs, big 
joints, lameness and hot feet. Auscultation may detect a grating sound 
at the chest, or a noise like brickbats falling down stairs at the wind- 
pipe ; whenever this last peculiarity is audible there is a copious nasal 
discharge. Sometimes one foot is acutely painful, and, notwithstand- 
ing the weakness, the leg is held in the air. Purgation has been wit- 
nessed, although constipation usually prevails, and the animal generally 
stands during the continuance of the disorder. 

Move the horse slowly to a well-littered, loose box; mind the door 




CONPIKMED INFLUENZA. 



does not open to the north or to the east. 'No food will be eaten ; but 
suspend a pail of well-made gruel within easy reach of the animal's 
head. Let the gruel be changed or the receptacle replenished at stated 
periods, thrice daily; sprinkle one scruple of calomel upon the tongue, 
and wash it down with a drink composed of sulphuric either, one ounce; 
laudanum, one ounce; water, half a pint; do this night and morning. 
Should the weakness be excessive, double the quantity of ether and of 
laudanum contained in the draughts. Watch the pulse — it always is 
feeble, but at first has a wiry feeling. So soon as the character of the 
pulse changes or the wiry sensation departs, which generally happens 
when the nasal discharge becomes copious and cough appears, one pot 



184 



ABDOMINAL INJURIES. 



of stout may be allowed, and some nourishing food, as bread, on wbich a 
very little salt has been sprinkled, may be offered by hand. The horse 
feels man to be its master and appreciates any attention bestowed upon 
it in the hour of sickness. It will stand still to be caressed, and advance 
its hanging ears to catch the accents of sympathy. 

Beware of what is termed active treatment; a purgative is death dur- 
ing influenza. It generally will induce the prostration from which the 
animal never recovers. Formerly it was common to see four strong 
men propping up a horse during its endeavor to walk. But the lower 
class are fond of joking one with another. Such was the usual result of 
their employment on these occasions. In the fun the horse got but par- 
tial support, while the noise distressed the diseased sensibilities. Horses 




A COMMON SIGHT DURING EECOVERT FROM INFLUENZA, WHEN ACTIVELT TREATED. 

have large sympathies, and readily comprehend the attentions dictated 
by kindness. The disregard which people too often display toward 
sickness in an animal acutely pains the creature : its effects may be told 
by the altered character of the pulse. Whereas the voice, when softened 
by pity, often causes the heavy head to be turned toward the speaker ; 
and the muzzle of a diseased inmate of the stable has frequently reposed 
long upon the chest of the writer. 



ABDOMINAL INJURIES. 

These are of various kinds. They differ materially, but they all pro- 
voke inflammation of the vast serous membranes lining the abdominal 
cavity; and their symptoms are therefore too nearly alike to be distin- 
guished from each other. A mere list of such perils must astonish the 
reader; and his pity will be excited when he learns that such accidents, 
numerous as they are, generate the most violent agony. These injuries 
consist of ruptured diaphragm, ruptured stomach, ruptured spleen, 



ABDOMINAL INJURIES. 



185 



ruptured intestines, strangulation, intro-susception, impactment, and cal- 
culus. 

Ruptured diaphragm is attended with a soft cough, and symptoms 
of broken wind — occasioned by the almost sole employment of the 
abdominal muscles — with sitting on the haunches. Still, Professor 




AN UNNATURAl ATTITUDE, INDICATIVE OP SOME ABDOMINAL INJUBT. 

Spooner, of the Royal Veterinary College, mentioned in his lectures 
that an animal belonging to the Zoological Society lived two years 
with a ruptured diaphragm, through which the bowel protruded into 
the thorax. In the horse such a lesion is speedily fatal, 

A position so unnatural as that of sitting on the haunches may 




A POSITION OFTEN ASSUMED BY THE HORSE SUPFEKING FKOM ABDOMINAL INJURT. 

denote something very wrong to be present; but it gives no definite 
direction to our ideas. Animals are known to have assumed it, and 



186 



ABDOMINAL INJURIES. 



subsequently to have recovered. The diaphragm when it yields gener- 
ally gives way upon the tendinous portion. Through the opening the 
peristaltic action soon causes the bowels to obtrude ; and death is pro- 
duced by displacement and strangulation of the intestine. The posture 
previously delineated is common to all injuries of the abdomen; so is 
the opposite peculiarity — or the horse remaining upon its chest. The 
last attitude may not, to most persons, appear so strange, seeing that 
the creature assumes it whenever it rises or lies down. Then, however, 
it is only momentary. When it denotes abdominal injury, it is com- 
paratively of long continuance. At the same time the breathing and 
the countenance, bespeak the greatest internal anguish. 

Ruptured spleen is the gentlest death of all those which spring from 

abdominal injury. The spleen 
is at present a mystery to veter- 
inary science. , It has been dis- 
covered after "death of enormous 
size ; but the symptoms during 
life had not led to the expecta- 
tion of any very serious disorder. 
Ruptured spleen and ruptured 
liver are both productive of 
similar symptoms; both answer 
to the same tests, and the term- 
ination of each is alike. 

Ruptured stomach mostly 
happens with old and enfeebled 
horses. Night cab-horses are very liable to it ; so also are animals of 
heavy draught. The drivers often neglect to take out the nose-bags. 
The horse's most urgent necessities always yield to man's passing con- 
venience; so the creature has to journey 
far or to remain out till the empty stomach 
grows debilitated. It is then taken home 
and placed before abundance. Elsewhere 
this folly has been commented upon. It 
was shown that light food and perfect rest 
were the best restoratives for an exhausted 
frame. The drivers, however, refuse to be 
taught. The horse eats and eats. No con- 
traction of the exhausted stomach warns 
the animal when to stop. The viscus is crammed. Then digestion 
endeavors to commence. With rest the organ recovers some tone. The 
muscular coat of the sac starts into action, and, encountering opposition, 




TEST FOB HEMORRHAGE FROM THE SPLEEN. 




A BUPTURBD STOMACH. 



ABDOMINAL INJURIES. 



187 




the vital powers exert themselves with the greater energy. The stomach 
is thus burst by its own inherent force ; the largest division of its vari- 
ous structures always being exhibited by the elastic peritoneal covering 
— the lesser rent being left upon the inelastic mucous lining membrane. 
Excessive colic, followed by tympanitis, are the only general symptoms 
which attend ruptured stomach. The history of the case, if it can be 
obtained, is, however, a better guide ; but there are too often interested 
motives for distorting the facts. Vomition through the nostrils haa 
been thought to particularize ruptured stomach; but experience ha? 
ascertained that vomition may be induced by any lesion which is suf- 
ficiently great to cause revulsion of the system. 

Intro-susception is always preceded by colic. The last-named affec- 
tion causes portions of the bowels to contract. Such 
contracted intestines become small, firm, and stiff. 
They are, while in that condition, by the peristaltic 
action readily pushed up other portions of the canal, 
which are of the natural size. The entrance of the 
contracted bowel acts upon the healthy tube as if it 
were a foreign substance, Contractibility is ex- 
cited. The displaced and intruding bowel is grasped 
as by a vice, and the accident is of that kind which 
provokes its own continuance. Cure is hopeless, 
while consciousness remains; the only hope is the administration of 
chloroform in full and long-continued doses ; thereby to arrest vitality 
and chance the release of the imprisoned gut. While intro-susception 
lasts, all passage is effectually stopped. Inflammation soon commences, 
and the symptoms of outrageous colic are exhibited. However, such 
is not always the case. Mr. Woodger, 
veterinary surgeon of Bishop's Mews, 
Paddington, attended a case of this de- 
scription, in which the symptoms present 
seemed to denote congestion of the lungs. 

Invagination is here used to express 
the entrance of one entire division of the 
bowels within another. In this sense it 
is chiefly witnessed upon the large intes- 
tines ; whereas intro-susception is mostly 
present upon the smaller bowels. The mesentery must be ruptured 
before such an accident can take place ; but then the agony attendant 
upon the previous derangement is so powerful that it is impossible for 
the hugeness of this lesion to increase the violence of the torture ; nor 
is there any sign by which so sad a catastrophe can be predicated. 



THE INTESTINE DIVIDED SO 
AS TO CLEARLY SHOW THS 
NATURE OF INTRO-SUS- 
CEPTION. 




THE C(ECUM INVAGINATED WITHIN THE COLON, 
AND BLACK FROM INTENSE INFLAMMATION. 



188 



ABDOMINAL INJURIES. 



Before strangulation can possibly occur, the mesentery must be sun- 
dered. It almost always happens to a portion of the small intestines. 
The bowel, freed from its support, soon involves itself with numerous 
complications ; or the rent membrane may twine round a knuckle of the 
gut. 





A KNUCKLE OF INTESTINE STEAN- 
GDLATED BY THE KUPTUEja) 
MESENTERY. 



EUPTURE OF THE SMALL 

INTESTINES, 



The above illustration, however, shows one of the simplest forms in 
which the accident can possibly take place; but no person, however 
acute, could distinguish between strangulation from rupture of the intes- 
tines. The last generally occurs upon the smaller bowels, and happens 
to the interspaces upon the superior portion of the tube, between the 
vessels which nourish the digestive canal. The ingesta is consequently 
forced between the layers of the mesentery. The most intense anguish, 
inflammation, and death are the consequences. 

Calculus or stone may be present, either in the stomach or in the 
canal. Those in the stomach are of small size ; those within the intes- 
tines may attain the weight of more than 
twenty pounds. Those of the stomach are 
always smooth, as also may be those of the 
bowels. To the intestines, however, there 
are common three kinds of, or differently 
composed calculi : the triple phosphate or 
the earthy ; one formed of the minute hairs 
which originally surrounded the kernel of 
the oat; and another composed of dung, 
held together by the mucous secretion of the 
bowel. Any of these calculi may, as the 
size increases, gradually stretch the intestine ; thus forming a living sac 
within which the stone abides. While it remains there, the food passes 
over it and no injury is occasioned. But by any movement it is likely 
to be dislodged and thrown into the healthy channel. There it is firmly 
grasped with such force as to produce rupture of the intestine, and the 
hold is only relaxed after inflammation has ended in mortification and in 
death. The bowels, in trut^, are impacted by calculus. The passage 




THE SAC FORMED IN THE BOWEL; THIS THE 
CALCULUS HAS QUITTED, WHILE ANOTHER 
PORTION OF THE INTESTINE HAS SO 
FIRMLY GRASPED IT AS TO RUPTURE IT- 
SELF. 



ABDOMINAL INJURIES. 189 

is stopped. However different the causes of abdominal injury may 
appear, they are each generally characterized by the severest possible 
abdominal pain. This symptom is often so violent that the agony con- 
ceals all other indications ; or if any others can be exhibited, they are 
so partially shown and displayed for so very brief a space as not to per- 
mit of their being rightly interpreted. 

It is very desirable that every one should witness a powerful horse in 
its agony. No stronger means could be found for enforcing such a les- 
son than the sufferings which spring from abdominal injuries. When 
this is proposed it is not intended the person should look on misery 
only so long as the spectacle stimulated his feelings ; but that he should 
watch hour after hour and behold the afflicted life resigned under the 
pressure of mighty torment. Were such a sight once contemplated — 
were man fully conscious of how brimming with horrible expression 
every feature of the horse's frame can become — the thought of anguish 
wrenching life out of so huge a trunk would surely compel the better 
treatment of a gentle, inoffensive, and serviceable slave. Ruptured 
stomach a little forethought would prevent. The triple phosphate cal- 
culus is common among millers' horses, which are foully fed from the 
sweepings of the shop. But if man will oblige duty to bow before con- 
venience, or make it secondary to expense, the misery he inflicts will 
surely in justice recoil upon himself. 

Abdominal injuries are probably the sources of the greatest agony 
horse-flesh can endure. To account for the generality of such lesions, it 
is merely necessary to regard the places in which horses are housed and 
the manner in which they are fed. In the owner's estimation a horse 
seems to be a horse, in the same sense as a table is a table. Both ob- 
jects are necessary to his comfort, to his pride, or to his profit. Neither 
have higher claims. Both are to be used and to be flung aside. The 
one is to be cleaned and repaired at the cheapest rate ; the other is to 
be lodged and supported at the lowest cost. When either grow old in 
his service, each is equally to be discarded. The two things apparently 
rank in man's estimation as simple chattels subject to his will and made 
to please his fancy. That there is a huge life, a breathing sensibility 
attached to one of these articles ; that it delights in its master's pleasure, 
and, if properly trained, it is capable of sharing its master's emotions, 
is so preposterous a sentimentality as to be "with scorn rejected." 

Nobody speaks of the horse as a creature enjoying man's highest 
gift — as a living animal. Everybody talks about his or her constitu- 
tion; but no one imagines the horse has a constitution which can be 
destroyed. All horses are expected to thrive equally. They are re- 
garded as things to be used, and to be sold or packed away when not 



190 



WORMS. 



required. They are obliged to live by man's direction, and are expected 
to display the highest spirit whenever they are taken abroad. Should 
it be astonishing if the framework nature has so exquisitely balanced 
occasionally becomes deranged under man's barbarous and selfish sway ? 
Is it cause for legitimate wonder if, under so coarse a rule, disease some- 
times assumes strange forms, or attacks parts which are beyond the 
reach of human science ? 



WORMS. 

Worms are of various kinds; but all, according to the notions of 
ignorance, announce their presence by particular symptoms. The para- 
sites, when really present, can, however, cause no more than intestinal 
irritation, the continuance of which may give rise to several disorders. 
Chronic indigestion is by the groom always recognized as a "wormy 
condition." 

The only certain proof of the existence of such annoyances is visible 
evidence. Upon suspicion, careful horse proprietors may administer 
certain medicine, because some physics only cool the body and cleanse 
the system. The generality of worm-powders are, however, too potent 
to be safe. Like all drugs sold as "certain cures," they are so powerful 
that they frequently do more than remove the disorder which they pre- 
tend to eradicate — for they also destroy the animals to which they are 
administered. 

Having premised thus much, the author will now commence to describe 
the usual form of irritation to which worms of 
different kinds give rise. 

The parasite especially inimical to colts is 
the taenia or tape-worm. It is mostly per- 
petuated by the farmer's prejudice, which pro- 
cures foals from dams that are done up for 
work: which starves the mother till her pro- 
duce runs by her side, and which attempts to 
rear young stock upon the sour grass of a pub- 
lic common. Both sire and dam should be in 
perfect health if a valuable colt is desired : 
neither can be too good. The mare should not, 
during gestation, be "turned out" to distend 
the abdomen with watery provender — to have 
the stomach and intestines filled with bots — to 
allow filth and excretions to accumulate upon 
the coat and to check the healthy functions of the skin. Gentle work, 
only sufficient to earn the stable-keep, will injure no animal. The mare 




THE TiBNIA OR TAPE-WOEM. 



WORMS. 



191 




IRRITATION CAUSED BT WORMS. THE NOSE RUBBED 
VIOLENTLY AGAINST A WALL. 



will rather be benefited by moderate exercise, and by also having all the 
food and attention to which she has become habituated. But to expose 
a mare during the summer months, and to stint the animal during the 
winter season, can produce nothing which shall repay the expense of 
rearing. The little progeny before it sees the light is the inhabitant of 
an unhealthy home; after birth the mother's secretion is\hin, poor, and 
watery. It neither satisfies the cravings of hunger nor can nourish a 
body into growth. Ill health in the young encourages parasites. The 
colt soon becomes the prey of the taenia. 

The young when afflicted with the above parasite may not die, but 
they are reserved for a miserable 
and a useless life. The develop- 
ments are checked. The foal grows 
up with a large head, low crest, 
tumefied abdomen, and long legs. 
If it be a male it cannot be oper- 
ated upon before the fourth year; 
even then it is cast only because 
there is no hope of further improve- 
ment. The appetite during the 
long time of rearing is more than 

good; the ribs, nevertheless, are not covered with flesh; the dung is 
■not well comminuted — it is friable and sometimes partially coated with 
slime ; the anus projects — occa- 
sionally it is soiled by adherent 
strips of tenacious mucus, al- 
most like to membrane ; the 
coat is unhealthy; the breath 
fetid ; the animal may rub its 
nose violently against a wall or 
remain straining it upward for 
a considerable time ; the eye 
becomes unnaturally bright ; 
the colt begins to pick and bite 
its body, often pulling off hair 
by the mouthful. 

All this agony and the depri- 
vation of a life depends on the 
parsimony of man. Women 
know that the body during certain times requires extra nutriment. 
Thus delicate ladies in peculiar states are accustomed to take "hearty 
pulls" at porter or at stout. It is very general for physiologists to 




>i r¥^ If " 

A COLT PICKINO THE HAIR FROM ITS LEO BECAUSE OP 
WORMS. 



192 WORMS. 

argue from animals up to man. Why should not the custom be reversed ? 
Why should not veterinary science reason from tlie human being down 
to the horse, and thereby instruct the stolid in the necessary require- 
ments of the mare during particular states? "Stint the dam and starve 
the foal" is certainly a true proverb. 

Taenia is best destroyed by the spirits of turpentine in the following 
quantities : — 

A foal Two drachms. 

Three months old Half an ounce. 

Six months One ounce. 

One year One ounce and a half. 

Two yearg Two ounces. 

Three years Three ounces. 

Four years and upwards Four ounces. 

Procure one pound of quassia chips. Pour into these three quarts 
of boiling water. Strain the liquor. Cause the turpentine to blend, by 
means of yolks of eggs, with so much of the quassia infusion as may be 
necessary. Add one scruple of powdered camphor to the full drink, and 
give every morning before allowing any food. 

This probably may kill the worms ; but as every link of the taenia is 
a distinct animal of both sexes, and capable of producing itself, the eggs 
must be numerous. For the destruction of these, nourishing prepared 
food is essential, such as gruel, scalded oats, etc.; but little or no hay. 
At the same time a tonic will be of all service. Take 

Liquor arsenicalis From one to eight drachms. 

Muriated tincture of iron . . . From one and a half to twelve drachms. 

Extract of belladonna .... From ten grains to two drachms. 

Ale or good stout IJalf a pint to a quart. 

Mix. Give every morning to the animal — strength being proportioned to age — 
till the coat is glossy. 

Lumbrici are more dreadful to contemplate than they appear to be 





THE LUMBEICUS, A 'WORM NOT 
PECULIAR TO HORSES. ONE- 
FOURTH OF THE NATURAL SIZE. 



AN ASCARIDIS, 
NATURAL SIZE. 



A STRONGULCS, 
NATURAL SIZE. 



fearful in reality; specimens are not rare which measure eighteen inches. 



ASCARIDES AND STRONGULI. 



193 



This ■worm preys upon the weakly, be they old or young. One taenia 
will produce immense disturbance; whereas numbers of the lumbrici 
will cause little or no effect. Whoever has remarked the dunghill in a 
knacker's yard has seen it to consist quite as much of lumbrici as of 
excrement. Mr. Woodger, of Bishop's Road, Paddington, removes these 
pests with ease and certainty. The above-named veterinary surgeon 
gives two drachms of tartarized antimony with a sufficiency of common 
mass, as a ball, every morning, until the pai'asites are expelled. 



ASCARIDES AND STRONGULI. 
These parasites inhabit the large intestines. They produce extraor- 



a. The Bole opening by which 
air can enter. It is placed upon 
the ground and guarded by a 
valve ; so that air, after having 
entered, cannot leave the in- 
strument by this opening. 

b. The box containing lighted 
tobacco, through which all air 
drawn into the instrument must 
necessarily pass. 

c. The pump. 

d. The end of the tube through 
which the fumes are driven. 




To load the instrument : un- 
screw the lid of the box. Fill 
that with lighted tobacco. Fix 
on the lid again. Best the air 
entrance upon the ground, and 
move the handle of the pump 
up and down. By this move- 
ment the air is first drawn 
through the lighted tobacco 
into the pump, and is then sent 
through the tube. 



THE APPARATUS BT MEANS OP WHICH A TOBACCO SMOKE ENEMA IS ADMINISTERED. 



The 



dinary ravages, notwithstanding their insignificant appearance, 
last is difficult to eradicate because of the extent 
of bowel which it infests. The stronguli will 
sometimes eat through important structures, but 
the ascarides are always located within the rec- 
tum. Then, most medicines being deprived of 
activity, are inoperative before they reach the 
last locality. For this reason it is best to com- 
mence the treatment with injections of train oil. 
Should these be followed by no result at the ex- 
piration of a week, resort to a solution of catechu 
— one ounce to the quart of water : give that 
for seven mornings. Upon the eighth, give the 
animal a mash, and at night administer a mild 
physic ball ; about four drachms of aloes and one 
drachm of calomel. Repeat the medicine if required ; but if not, resort at 
once to the arsenicalis and ale or stout, which was recently recommended. 

13 




A HORSE THAT HAS RUBBED ITSELT 
VIOLENILT AGAINST A WALL. 



194 SPASMODIC COLIC, ETC. 

Tobacco smoke enemas are sometimes efficacious when all the pre- 
vious measures are powerless. Frequently the posterior irritation is 
distressing. It is sometimes so provoking that the horse will thereby 
be induced to destroy its personal appearance by rubbing the tail and 
quarter violently against the wall, or any rough surface within its reach. 
In such cases the injections of train oil are most likely to prove bene- 
ficial ; the local itching may be in some measure removed by inserting 
up the anus a portion of the following ointment night and morning : — 

Glycerin Half an ounce. 

Spermaceti .... One ounce. 

Melt the last and blend. When nearly cold, add — 

Mercurial ointment (strong) i Three drachms. 

Powdered camphor Three drachms. 

SPASMODIC COLIC— FRET.— GRIPES. 

Spasmodic colic is an affection which every loiterer about a stable, 
from a postboy to a farrier, imagines he is able to cure. Many attacks 
no doubt would depart of themselves ; others might be removed by sim- 
ple motion. Nevertheless such possible remedies should never be trusted. 
Neither should gin and pepper, red pepper and peppermint, hot beer 
and mustard, rubbing the abdomen with a broomstick, kneading the 
belly violently with a man's knee, or any popular measure be permitted. 

Such remedies are likely to get rid 
of colic by causing enteritis. When 
inflammation of the bowels thus origi- 
nates, it is generally fatal, the strength 
being exhausted and the powers of 
nature worn out by the previous dis- 
order — not to mention the preposses- 

DIAGRAM EXPLAINING HOW THE BOWELS ARE g^Q^ (jf ^J^g gpCCtatOrS, Whlch prCVBntS 

AFFECTED BY SPASMODIC COLIC. k^iv^ » v- ^^ , ^ 

„,„,..,. , , , the more serious disease from being 

a a. The healthy intestine rendered much o 

more vascular by the blood being spasmodically earlv rCCOffnizcd. 
driven out of other portions of the tube. •' " 

b. A portion of the tube much diminished by _^iiy caUSe mav Mndlc Colic. It is 
the presence of abdominal spasm. •' •' 

c. The paHid appearance, denoting the place commOU after faSt driving: henCO 
which colic has recently attacked. " 

many gentlemen take colic drinks to 
Epsom races. That affection which in ladies is designated spasms, in 
gentlemen is called pain in the bowels, and in children is known as the 
bellyache, is, in the horse, colic ; and from the largeness of the animal's 
intestines, the affection probably provokes more anguish in the quad- 
ruped than the same disorder does in the entire human race. Under 
whatever term it may be recognized, spasmodic colic is never more than 




SPASMODIC COLIC, ETC. 



195 



partial contraction of the muscular coat of the intestines. The action 
so compresses a part of the tube as to expel the blood and render the 
natural pink of the tissues, for some time after the disorder has departed, 
a glistening white. The blood, driven from particular spots, is forced 
into those parts in which no disease exists. Excess of blood predis- 
poses to inflammation ; hence we probably trace the reason why, if spas- 
modic colic be suffered to continue, the affection is so apt to end in 
incurable enteritis. 

Colic most often attacks the small intestines, though the disease is by 
no means confined to those parts. It first occurs on a limited space ; 
presently it vanishes altogether, and afterward reappears on some dis- 
tant portion of the alimentary canal; or, in other words, colic dodges 
about, its attacks becoming more numerous and the intermissions shorter 
as the period of its commencement grows more distant. Change of 
water, change of food, getting wet, fatiguing journeys, are all likely to 
originate it ; but, perhaps, it is most frequently exhibited when no known 
cause is in operation. Aloes, however, are proved to be among the 
surest provocatives of this disease. Many horses cannot swallow pure 
aloes in any form, without being severely griped. For such animals, 
the following drench is recommended, instead of the above-named drug 
in substance : — 

Sulphuric ether and laudanum, of each One ounce. 

Compound tincture of aloes made with diluted spirits of wine . Five ounces. 

Cold water One pint. 




THE FIRST STAGE OF SPASMODIC COLIC. 



If greater strength be requisite, obtain it by the addition of tincture of 
gentian, every ounce of which is equal, when combined, to one drachm 
of aloes. 

Colic always commences suddenly ; it starts into life ready armed for 



196 SPASMODIC COLIC, ETC. 

mischief. The animal may be apparently well and feeding. Without 
visible cause the head is raised and the occupation ceases. Should the 
pain last, the hind foot is lifted to strike the belly, and the fore leg 
begins to scrape the pavement. The groom, who has merely left to pro- 
cure a pail of water from an adjacent pump, on his return discovers his 
charge exhibiting evident signs of uneasiness. As the man stares, won- 
dering what can be the matter, the horse is pawing and the nose slowly 
points to the flank. All then is explained. Fret is the matter, and it 
would be "fret,^"' should the disease prove to be of a very different 
nature. 

While the horse is being watched, every indication of disturbance 
may disappear. The countenance tranquilizes and the nose is again 
inserted into the manger. A few minutes elapse and the pangs are 
renewed. The second fit may last longer and be slightly more severe. 
Then another, but a shorter period of ease follows : thus the visita- 
tions will ensue upon spaces of entire exemption from anguish. The 
recommencement of agony usually is denoted by a disposition to lie 
down. The animal crouches ; next it turns round as though the inten- 
tion was to stretch out the limbs; but suddenly the erect attitude is 
assumed — the design, lately so nearly executed, having been forgotten. 
Then pawing and striking at the abdomen quickly follow; and while 
the horse looks toward the flank, a morbid fire is perceptible in the eye. 




THE SECOND STAGE OF SPASMODIC COLIC. 



No relief being afforded, the pains lengthen, while the intervals of 
tranquillity become shorter. The action grows more fierce and the aspect 
more wild. The pawing is more brief, but more energetic ; often during 
its continuance the foot is raised and violently stamped upon the ground. 
The animal now does not attempt to feed, but stares for a minute at a 
time, with an inquiring gaze, toward the abdomen. At length, without 



SPASMODIC COLIC, ETC. 



19T 



warning or preparation, the body leaps upward to fall violently upon 
the floor. The shock is often fearful; but the animal in its torment 
appears to derive ease from the violence. Being down, it rolls from side 
to side and kicks about, until one of its feet, touching the wall, enables 
the horse to poise itself upon the back. 

Should relief not be quickly provided, colic soon passes into enteritis. 
The pulse, from being unchanged at first, then simply quickened by pain, 




THE THIED STAGE OF BPASMODIO COUC. 



grows harder and more wiry. The intermissions are lost, and though 
the anguish may for a space be less, yet in its continuity it is more 
exhausting. 

On the appearance of colic, the morbid action ought to be imme- 
diately counteracted. Aloes in solution is generally administered; such 
a medicine, unless guarded as before recommended, is by no means ad- 
visable. Sulphuric ether and laudanum should be in the possession 
of every horse proprietor. One pint of each — the two being mixed 
together, with one ounce of rank oil floating on the top to prevent 
evaporation or mistakes — will be perfectly safe in any household. The 
mixture should, however, be well shaken before it is employed: two 
ounces of the combination in half a pint of water constitutes an excel- 
lent colic drink. Give three of these, one every ten minutes. If no 
improvement be displayed, double the quantity of the active agents 
and continue the drenches at the period stated : these medicines should 
be persevered with until the symptoms disappear. 

Turpentine, as an enema, is an excellent adjunct. Mr, T. W. Gowing, 
of Camden Town, cured a lingering fit of colic by administering a pint 
of turpentine mixed with a quart of the solution of soap. The strong 
liquor of ammonia, diluted with six times its bulk of water and applied 
by means of a saturated cloth, held to the abdomen in a rug several 



198 SPASMODIC COLIC, ETC. 

times doubled, is likewise frequently beneficial. • If these means, used 
simultaneDusly, produce no amendment in two hours, watch the pulse, 
for there is most probably something beyond simple colic to contend 
with. 

Upon the earliest symptom the horse should be removed to a loose 
box amply protected by trusses of straw ranged against the walls. Into 
this the animal should be immediately led — for the reader must under- 




APPLYINQ AN AMMONIACAL BLISTER. 



Stand colic does not always observe the stages in which it has been 
described. Occasionally it commences in the wildest form; and if a 
loose box be not at hand, one can always be extemporized by removing 
the carriage from its house, by throwing the doors wide open and by 
placing a bar across the entrance. 

No disease is more quickly dispelled if treated at the commencement ; 
nor is there one which, being left to run its course, occasions greater 
agony, is more fearful to witness, or leads to more terrible results than 
spasmodic colic. A single dose of ether and of laudanum may van- 
quish the malady at the commencement ; yet if the attack be allowed to 
progress, the fit may set all skill and remedial measures at defiance. 
The principal attention of the proprietor must be given to prevent the 
administration of the "groom's favorite" or other ignorant nostrums. 
The case, when properly treated, is cured for a few shillings; and a 
horse cannot be killed with decency for less money. 

Besides, let any human being, having feelings capable of impression, 
regard an instance of spasmodic colic which has been aggravated by 
mistaken treatment ; and as he views the fibers of a living body quiver, 
sees the frame bedewed in sweat and wrenched in mighty torture, con- 
templates the sad condition of the companion of his pleasures, and hears 
vented from its throat sounds expressive of agony, — let him, having the 



FLATULENT COLIC, ETC. 



199 



image present to his eyes, ask himself whether any man, possessing 
means at his command, has a right to make a money question of the 
creature's suffering, which exists in a state of dependence on his bounty. 

Horses must be gifted with a certain amount of reason. However 
furious may be the attack of colic, the mute expression of anguish is 
quieted when preparation is made for the administration of medicine. 
The most nauseous drenches are swallowed with a patience that speaks 
a perfect comprehension of their intent. The most wonderful proof of 
reason is, however, given by the manner in which the horse will recog- 
nize the veterinary surgeon. The author has known animals, in the 
intervals of spasmodic colic, walk close up to him, look full into his face 
with an eye beaming with intelligence, and a strain upon the features 
as though the creature "did so wish to speak;" then finding utterance 
impossible, the nose has mutely directed attention to the flank. 

Every assistance is, by the animal, afforded to him who displays a 
desire to alleviate its distress. Where language is denied, motives 
appear to be the more quickly comprehended ; and he who wishes to 
mingle safely among horses, may best protect himself by treating them 
gently and sympathizing with their emotions. 



FLATULENT COLIC, WINDY COLIC, TYMPANITIS, ETC. 

This is peculiarly the affection of old age. Horses, though not so 
liable to hoven as are horned cattle, nevertheless may be blown out if 
permitted to gorge upon moist, green food. Flatulent colic in the vast 
majority of instances, however, is not caused by any special fodder, but 




THE FIRST STAGE OF FLATULENT COLIC. 



springs from disordered digestion; living for years upon stimulating 
diet, breathing a tainted atmosphere, being now weakened by a long 
fast, then distressed by a too abundant supply; next exhausted by a 



200 



FLATULENT COLIC, ETC. 



tedious journey, and subsequently cramped by days of enforced stagna- 
tion, — all of these things ultimately tell upon the strong body of our 
domesticated quadruped. The stomach, as the earliest evidence of 
general debility, loses its tonicity. It cannot digest a full meal; the 
provender ferments, gas is released, and flatulent colic is the conse- 
quence. 

A traditionary belief in the stable asserts this disorder is provoked 
by crib-biting, wind-sucking, etc. etc. The author is indebted to Mr. 
Ernes, a most successful veterinary surgeon of Dockhead, for the earliest 
comprehension of the impossibility that such causes should operate. 
Let the reader endeavor to swallow air ; the mouth being deprived of 
all saliva, the attempt at further deglutition is fruitless ; besides, to use 
the words of Mr. Ernes, "though the stomach or the bowels do contain 
a small portion of atmospheric air, flatulent colic is generated by car- 
bonic acid or sulphureted hydrogen gas, the products of decomposition ; 
either of which, if respired, destroys vitality." 

The horse which is to be oppressed by flatulent colic exhibits uneasi- 
ness after feeding; it hangs the head; breathes laboriously; fidgets; 
rocks the body, and rests first on one leg then on the other. These 




A HOESB DTINO OP FLATULENT COUO. 



symptoms are exhibited before any enlargement of the abdomen is to 
be detected. With the swelling of the belly pawing commences; that 
action is, however, far too leisurely displayed to be for an instant con- 
founded with the same energetic movement which characterizes spas- 
modic colic. 



FLATULENT COLIC, ETC. 



201 



W. Percivall asserts tliat animals roll and kick at the abdomen dur* 
ing flatulent colic. Every fact requires to be respectfully considered 
which is recorded by so estimable a writer ; but the author has never 
witnessed such symptoms in genuine flatulent colic. The horse will 
stand in one spot throughout the day ; even the movement of the foot, 
before noticed, appears to be an exertion. The eye is sleepy, the pulse 
heavy, wind frequently passes from the body, and in such a condition 
the animal remains, slowly becoming worse. 

Almost in the same place the horse may stand three or four days; 
then the abdomen is much increased in size ; the animal is restless ; the 
pulse is extremely feeble ; the breathing is very fast ; the pupil of the 
eye is dilated and the sight is lost. A walk as in a mill is commenced ; 
obstacles are run into or upset; delirium begins; weak neighs are 
uttered in reply to visionary challenges; the coat is ragged; copious 
and partial perspirations break forth; the beat of the artery is lost at 
the jaw ; an intermittent flutter is to be indistinctly felt at the heart. 
At last the limbs fail ; the body falls ; struggles ensue, and the creature 
dies in consequence of the distended abdomen compressing the lungs, 
thus preventing the breath being inhaled. 

Relief should be aff"orded before the distress grows urgent ; when the 
flatulence comes on without green provender being consumed, the chances 
favor recovery ; even then, however, the gas may be confined to the 
stomach, which obliges entire dependence to be placed upon internal 
remedies. In the beginning, a ball composed 
of two drachms of sulphuret of ammonia, with 
a sufficiency of extract of gentian and pow- 
dered quassia, may be repeated thrice, half an 
hour being sufi"ered to elapse between each ad- 
ministration. No benefit ensuing, one ounce of 
chlorate of potash, dissolved in a pint of cold 
water and mingled with two ounces of sulphu- 
ric ether, may, at the expiration of the time 
named, be horned down. After another hour, 
should no amendment be perceptible, two ounces 
each of sulphuric ether and laudanum, half an 
ounce of camphorated spirits, and one drachm 
of carbonate of ammonia may be given in a 
pint of cold water. Should no good effects 
ensue, in another hour throw up a tobacco-smoke enema by means of 
the machine here represented. 

As a last resort, should the previous remedies prove of no avail, pro- 
cure a stick of brimstone; light it and let it fill the place with the 




THE TOBACCO-SMOKE ENEMA. VrOEMS. 




A TROCAR ARMED WITH A CANULA FOR PUNCTUKINa 
THE ABDOMEN. 



202 FLATULENT COLIC, ETC. 

sulphurous fumes which are the product of its combustion. However, 
mind that the air is not too strongly impregnated, though, at the same 
time, it should be so pungent as to allow a human being to breathe with 
difficulty. This last measure ought to be continued for two hours, at 
the end of which period repeat the remedies already recommended, re- 
sorting to each by turns ; and do not fear being active, for flatulent 
colic becomes more difficult to remove as the period of its origin grows 
more distant. Should the affection appear to be approaching a fatal 
termination, and the size of the belly convince the spectator that the 
gas has entered the intestines, a desperate remedy remains. The situa- 
tion where the vapor has accumulated may be ascertained by percussion ; 
gently cut the skin which covers the abdomen on the left side, over 

those places indicated by white 
spots in the second engraving. 
A hollow sound will be emitted 
when the proper point has been 
struck; be certain of the last 
fact, as mistakes made in this 
operation are very awkward affairs. When assured, take a sharp-pointed 
knife, and, drawing the skin tight over the place selected, nick the integ- 
ument slightly ; then take a fine trocar and push it through the opening 
which has been made. 

This being accomplished, withdraw the stilet, and the gas should rush 
out with violence ; be provided with a small probe to clear the can- 
ula in case it should become impacted. The gas being released, the 
abdomen is reduced; withdraw the canula and the skin will fly back, 
effectually excluding all atmosphere. 

The gas, on rare occasions, will be generated a second time; there- 
fore the points where other punctures may be 
Efe«-_™s^^^^^& made are indicated ; for it is never well to in- 

terfere with those openings which in the first 
instance were instituted. However, should the 
operation have to be repeated, pull the integu- 
ment in the opposite direction, so as not to 
disturb the original wounds into the abdomen. 
Puncturing the abdomen for flatulent colic 
„ has been practiced both in this kingdom and in 

THE PLACES 'WHERE THE ABDOMEN Ir O 

MAT BE PUNCTURED IN THE LAST foreign kuds ; it is by no means a certain suc- 

8TA0E or FLATULENT COLIC. <=> ' _ •' 

cess, neither is it a certain failure. It assuredly 
requires boldness to perform it; but probably it is quite as beneficial 
and far more speedy in its effects than the great majority of medicinal 
remedies. 




FLATULENTCOLIC, ETC. 203 

The duration of flatulent colic cannot be absolutely stated ; it may 
continue for days, it may be cured in a single hour. However, should 
the abdomen be rapidly distended, then the termination will be sooner 
reached ; but be the attack quick or slow, neither food nor water should 
be allowed during its continuance. The groom, while the disease lasts, 
should occasionally sponge out the eyes, mouth, nostrils, etc. Indeed, 
humanity would dictate such relief during every serious affection. Sub- 
sequent to recovery, feed for a few days on gruel and mashed oats ; give 
a ball night and morning, composed of extract of gentian and powdered 
quassia, of each a sufficiency ; of extract of belladonna and of sulphate 
of copper, half a drachm. Continue this medicine and the above food 
until the stomach has regained its tone. 

Is flatulent colic a disease provoked by domestication? Certainly 1 
The wild horse would have to travel for his food ; in domestication it is 
placed ready gathered before the animal. Besides, the free animal being 
ever with his provender, the temptation to gorge the stomach would be 
absent; moreover, the untrained creature is protected by its instincts, 
which the care of man destroys. Little, however, is thought of this ; 
the fact even may be unknown to the great majority of educated horse 
proprietors. The sense of repletion is no longer indicated with such 
force as to warn the stabled animal. The responsibility thus cast upon 
the master has possibly never occurred to the mass of mankind. So 
entirely has the notion of any duty being due to the animal been ignored 
by society that, notwithstanding nature in the above fact asserts the 
obligation, its announcement most probably will be received with 
laughter. 



CHAPTER IX. 

THE UBINARY ORGANS — THEIR ACCIDENTS AND THEIR DISEASES. 



NEPHRITIS OR INFLAMMATION OF THE KIDNEYS. 

The straddling gait is not peculiar to any one disorder. It denotes no 
more than the region in which the affection is to be sought; but it does 
not characterize any special disease. Therefore so general a trait is 




THE aENEKAL SYMPTOM WHICH ATTENDS ALL DISEASES OP THE URINAET ORGANS. 

placed at the head of the chapter treating of ailments confined to the 
urinary organs, so that he who perceives the horse assume this position 
may at once recognize that part of the body in which the disorder resides. 
Nephritis is not so common at the present time as it used to be for- 
merly ; the growing information of the people has in some measure altered 
the practices of the stable. The master is not quite so much the slave of 
a groom's ignorance as was once universally the case ; the animal is no 
longer regarded as a mysterious creature which it required a particular 
education to understand. Urine balls, therefore, are no longer regularly 
kept in every loft. Niter — one ounce of "sweet nitre," or, to speak cor- 
rectly, an overdose of harsh saltpeter — may, however, be still permitted, 
and by particular horse proprietors regarded as a charm against every 
(204) 



NEPHRITIS. 205 

ill. It is true that such a dose of a powerful diuretic is four times thtf 
strength which science would, under any circumstances, approve ; but 
certain people in remote parts are happy in the conYiction that an ounce 
of " sweet niter " can possibly do no harm. 

The urinary organs of the horse must be little disposed to disease; 
they must be capable of surmounting a vast quantity of ill treatment. 
Were not ignorance thereby protected from the consequences which it 
provokes, half the horses in England would be disabled ; inflammation of 
the kidneys would become the most common of equine disorders. 

The horse has small need of diuretic medicine ; it is much exposed in 
that direction. Every purge, should it not act as intended, passes out 
of the body by stimulating the kidneys ; the ordinary provender of the 
animal may operate in the same manner. Foxy oats, kiln-dried oats, 
new oats ; musty hay, mow-burnt hay, new hay ; beans in particular con- 
ditions ; grasses, when first in season, and water of any novel kind, will 
all operate energetically upon the renal glands; therefore the horse, in 
its ordinary food, will possibly imbibe more than a sufficiency of a most 
debilitating medicine ; and the knowledge of such a liability may induce 
some men to withhold "sweet niter" from the future diet of the creature. 

It may be necessary to inform men and masters that a horse needs rest 
when under the operation of diuretic, quite as much as when subject to 
the action of purgative medicine. It is never safe to take the horse 
from the stable while the animal is passing any unusual amount of water. 
Excess of secretion proves the eliminating organs are excited. Before 
any part can exhibit excitement, an extra quantity of blood must circu- 
late within it, or it must be in a condition bordering upon inflammation. 
The urine is secreted from the blood by the kidneys ; therefore before a 
greater bulk of water can be passed, of course more blood must flow 
through the glands. 

The animal in such a state is not fit for work ; every step taken brings 
into action muscles which pass directly under the kidneys, and which 
must, therefore, when contracted, compress those organs. During labor, 
in proportion to the force required must be the power of the contraction 
exerted by the organs of motion ; in a healthy state, such exertion is not 
always free from danger. Excitement is, however, far from a healthy 
state. Then the glands are gorged with blood ; being squeezed for an 
hour or two while thus swollen or plethoric, they are very likely to be 
bruised ; inflammation may thereby be engendered, or renal abscess may 
possibly ensue. 

Agriculturists are entreated to pause over the above statement. Such 
persons often possess a well-bred and promising colt. The farmer, how- 
ever, is mostly uneasy until he has, according to his own notions, "tried 



206 



NEPHRITIS. 



the beast." He may be a personable man, riding fully "eighteen stun." 
The colt, probably, would be taxed to carry a third that load. The 
" sweet-niter " dose is administered over night to take all fever out of 
the body; and, while the kidneys are excited, the animal is saddled, 
mounted, and ridden to the hunt. Everybody knows the manner in 
which most farmers ride. The horse may have a hard run and be kept 
out for a long day. On the return, a full rack and a heaped manger 




A COLT BROUGHT HOME AFTLR THE FARMER HAS TRIED " WHAT KIND OF STUFF IS IN IT," BY A HARD 
DAY WITH THE HOUNDS. 

are placed before the overridden quadruped. Neither are touched. The 
saddle is removed and the back appears to be "queerly sticking up." 
The large full eyes are repeatedly turned round ; and the renter of land 
is in doubt whether the creature is staring reproachfully at him or is 
simply inspecting its own quarters. However, with the apathy which 
too many agriculturists habitually display, the colt is left for the night. 
By the next morning the animal is ruined, even should it survive an 
attack of acute nephritis. 

The symptoms of inflammation of the kidneys are a hard pulse, 
decidedly accelerated; quickened and short breathing, suggestive of 
pain; pallid mucous membranes; frequent looking toward the seat of 
anguish; head depressed; back roached; hind legs straddled, and the 
urine scanty. The animal almost refuses to "come round" in its stall, 
seldom lies down, and crouches beneath pressure when made upon the 
loins. 

Subsequently, as the symptoms alter, pus or matter may subside in tho 
water. It is indicative of an unfavorable termination should a fetid 



NEPHRITIS. 



20T 



odor attend the secretion, and should it be deeply tinted by the blood. 
Death is generally close at hand when the pulse grows quicker but more 
feeble, when pressure elicits no response, when the body is covered with 
perspiration, and when a urinous smell is perceptible on approaching 
the animal. 

The treatment of nephritis consists in applying fresh sheepskins to 
the loins. Should the case be urgent, a quantity of lukewarm made 
mustard may be first rubbed in and the sheepskin placed over it ; or 
mustard poultices in any case may be employed and covered over to 
prevent them becoming 
dry, till sheepskins can be 
procured. Injections of 
warm linseed tea should be 
thrown up every hour, as 
these are the nearest ap- 
proach that can be made 
to actual fomentation. 
Two scruples of croton 
farina, mixed with half a 
drachm of belladonna, may 
be given immediately in 
the form of a ball, the bulk 
of which should be made 
up with crushed linseeds 
and treacle. One scru- 
ple of calomel, with one 
drachm of opium, may be sprinkled on the tongue every hour while the 
acute stage continues. A pail of good linseed tea should be kept before 
the horse ; but as for more substantial provender, none is requisite dur- 
ing the agony of the disease. 

Should the slightest doubt be entertained concerning the nature of 
the affection, immediately insert the arm up the rectum. This intestine 
is anatomically spoken of as "a floating gut." It is suspended from 
the spine by mesentery or a loose fold of thin membrane, and, there- 
fore, is easily raised or depressed. It is situated under the kidneys, 
and nothing consequently interposes between the diseased organ and 
the inserted hand but the pliable coats of the bowel and the fatty sub- 
stances which immediately surround the glands. The hand is not con- 
scious of the soft wall of the intestine which covers it. The motion is 
so free, and the fingers are so readily moved, that previous knowledge 
alone assures the operator his arm is within a circumscribed canal, and 
not located in a free space. 




THE TEST FOR NEPHRITIS OR INFLAMMATION OF THE KIDNEYS. 



208 



NEPHRITIS. 



By inserting the hand and moving it gradually upward, an approach 
can be made to the immediate vicinity of the inflammation. Sensitive- 






a a a. The spine. hhh. The mesentery. cc c. The rectum. 

A. The extent to which the rectum may by very gradual force be depressed without Injury to the 
animal. 

B. The rectum, with the natural length of mesentery, when not depressed. 

C. The rectum raised, showing that the mesentery is very pliable. 

ness will be exhibited as the seat of disease is touched. Heat will also 
be felt. A fore leg should, however, be held up on the same side as the 

operator stands. Should the horse strug- 
gle violently and denote positive agony 
when the hand is approaching the region 
of the kidneys, the signs may be considered 
conclusive without attempting farther ex- 
ploration. Should the animal remain quiet 
at first, nevertheless let the operator be 
cautious, as the too near vicinity to the in- 
flamed part provokes resistance, which, in 
its utter heedlessness, is closely allied to 
madness. 

Several reasons will suggest the point at 
which the hand should pause. In the first 
place, pressure cannot benefit a delicately-formed and a diseased organ. 
In the second place, the agony of the animal may endanger the safety of 
the operator. In the last place, anything approaching to downright 
resistance brings the muscles that pass under the kidneys into ener- 
getic action, which circumstance is by no means favorable to ultimate 
recovery 

Many men can speak of the pain induced by affections of the kidneys. 
The torture consequent upon disease of an internal organ appears to 
be so excessive as at times to destroy reason in the human being. No 




A CERTAIN TEST FOR INFLAMMATION 
OF THE KIDNETS. 



CYSTITIS. 209 

one can look upon a horse suffering from nephritis, without feeling that, 
in sensibilities at all events, the two creatures are alike. Sympathy 
has been interpreted to mean no more than a conscious similarity of 
emotion. Such a definition must be erroneous, or more sympathy would 
actuate man toward his slave. The life is devoted to the service of the 
master. The body is disabled before its time for the pleasure of man- 
kind. The horse is such a slave as no words can express. It lives but 
to obey. Its master's whim is the animal's joy. It is happy to exist 
where and how its superior may appoint. Still there is no sympathy 
felt toward its tortures, no feeling evinced for its sufferings : its life is 
one long solitude, its death is the degradation of misery. Were man to 
read of some wild beast capable of such sincere docility, what pains 
would not be spent to secure so valuable a companion ! The animal is 
beside him and it is disregarded ; or its goodness is converted into the 
means for its mutilation. 

The additional treatment of nephritis consists more in the food than 
in the physic ; linseed, both the seeds and the infusion, may be given for 
the body's support. The best oats should be procured upon recovery, 
and the quality of the hay also should be attended to ; as for physic, 
that is almost limited to belladonna and to aconite. Belladonna is 
administered mixed with four times its amount of opium, so long as the 
pain is acute. 

Extract of belladonna Half a drachm. 

Crude opium Two drachms. 

Make into a ball with linseed meal and honey; give three daily while 
the symptoms require them ; or, should the pain be excessive, administer 
one every hour. 

The aconite root is intended to lower the circulation. When the 
pulse is quick and hard, a scruple of the powder may be thrown upon 
the tongue every half hour, till the beat of the artery soften, or till the 
animal appear to be affected by the medicine. The above measures are 
to be adopted without regard to the calomel and opium previously 
recommended. 

A horse having survived one attack of nephritis, can scarcely, how- 
ever successful may be the treatment, be restored to its original condition. 
The glands which have suffered inflammation must be left in an irritable 
state. 

CYSTITIS— INFLAMMATION OF THE BLADDER. 

This disorder is somewhat rare in the horse. Few cases have occurred ; 
even those were not strongly marked. Besides the general indications 
present during nephritis, such as quickened breathing, accelerated pulse, 

14 



210 CYSTITIS. 

straddling gait, etc. etc., the most prominent sign concerns the emission 
of the urine. The bladder is irritable at the commencement; the kid- 
neys have not secreted half a pint of fluid before it is violently expelled, 
and much straining, accompanied by sounds expressive of pain, follows 
the act. As the disease progresses, the bladder is contracted, and the 
water issues drop by drop, or as a constant dribble. This particularity 
marks the disease, which is also distinguished from nephritis by the 
roached back being absent ; the spine rather being hollowed more than 
is usual in cystitis. 

Most lecturers direct the student to insert the arm up a horse afl"ected 
with cystitis and to feel the compressed 
bladder; this is easily accomplished, as the 
engraving demonstrates; but is the opera- 
tion perfectly safe? White muscular tissue, 
when inflamed, becomes acutely sensitive. 
The bladder possesses a thick coat of that 
substance, and the hand, grasping an organ 
of this formation when in a stat^ of disease, 
would probably torture the sufferer to frenzy. 
It is not wise to excite a creature command- 
ing so huge a strength. There is, however, 
A DANGEROUS TEST FOR INFLAMMATION a tcst which vieMs as certalu a response, and, 

OF THE BLADDER. "^ _ i ' ' 

at the same time, is far less hazardous. This 
consists in placing the hand under the flank and keeping it there till all the 
action which could be attributable to skittishness has disappeared ; then 
press the abdomen, which, should it be hard and resistant, is a convinc- 
ing proof cystitis is not present; for contraction of the recti abdominis 
muscles would force the contents of the cavity into violent contact with 
the inflamed bladder. Should any doubt be entertained concerning the 
condition of the muscle named, a little more pressure will soon ascertain 
the fact. However, let the person who applies the test be prepared for 
the consequence, as the application of pressure to a diseased organ 
provokes a sudden and energetic resistance, intended to strike the tor- 
mentor backward. 

The treatment for inflamed bladder and diseased kidneys is alike as 
regards the administration of aconite root, extract of belladonna, calomel 
and opium. The reader is, therefore, in some measure referred to the 
article upon nephritis ; there is, however, a difference in application of 
counter-irritation by means of a rug doubled over a cloth, which last is 
saturated with strong liquor of ammonia diluted with six times its bulk 
of water; should this not be within reach, hot cloths retained under the 
belly are the next best application ; but these require constant change 




CYSTITIS. 



21i 



and a larger supply of heated fluid than most private establishments 
can command. Should both recommendations prove useless, then apply 
cloths dripping wet from a cold bath, and keep renewing them so often 
as they become warm. * 




A SAFER TEST FOR INFLAMMATION OP THE BLADDER. 



The cause of cystitis is the same as produces many cases of inflamed 
kidney, namely, the abuse of medicine, or new and unwholesome food ; 
blows likewise may induce it. Kicks under the belly, the too common 
mode of expressing impatience among carters, are very likely to provoke 




APPLICATION OP THE AMMONIACAL BLISTER. 



it. Horses are frequently seen in the streets of every town now whipped 
to make them proceed ; then the rein jagged to command the animal to 
"stand still." Next the whip is again applied; afterward the animal's 



212 SPASM OF THE URETHRA. 

belly is spitefully aimed at with the heavy boot of the countryman. The 
horses know not how to interpret these different signs: they become 
confused; they turn various ways, as if they hoped by such devices to 
please their chastiser. All is in vain ! At length the animals burst 
into perspiration and shiver violently ; by their alarm they are rendered 
stupid. But so disgusting an exhibition of folly and of cruelty on the 
part of the driver mostly creates small indignation in the wayfarers who 
behold it. The spectators generally look on with smiling countenances, 
and for the most part move onward without a word of displeasure or 
rebuke. To the human mind a man appears invested with absolute 
authority over the life which he has bought. So also no man risks 
reprobation, who keeps his animals upon poisonous provender. The hay, 
oats, and beans may be of a character calculated to engender disease. 
But has not the owner purchased the right to treat his property as he 
thinks proper ? It is true, religion teaches that life is not in the custody 
of man, and that health is not at mortal command ; but where horses are 
involved, all restraints appear to be forgotten, and mankind seem leagued 
together to inflict suffering on the dumb. For, is it not universally 
agi'eed that heavenly precepts were intended for man alone, and do not 
stoop so low as to include all the creatures the existence of which dates 
prior to the origin of the human being ? Animals, according to modern 
interpretation, are excluded from the ample embrace of Christian charity. 
An all-merciful power looks down with pity only upon one inhabitant of 
earth ! 

SPASM OF THE URETHRA. 

This affection is commonly designated spasm of the neck of the blad- 
der. The part named, however, has no fiber capable of excitation ; and 
it is difficult to understand how the elastic tissue at the opening of the 
receptacle can display a condition which is inherent only within the 
contractibility of muscle. The compressor urethras muscle, however, 
being morbidly excited, is more than capable of preventing all discharge 
of urine. 

The causes which provoke the spasm are not thoroughly understood. 
The affection is mostly attributed to some acridity existing in the food 
or water; else the supposed agent is said to be developed during the 
process of digestion. , 

The symptoms are : a widely straddling gait ; total suppression of 
urine, or small portions forcibly ejected at distant intervals. The suf- 
fering attendant on distention of the bladder is sometimes so violent 
that the affection has been mistaken for phrenitis. At other times the 
horse has been imagined to be griped. Both these blunders are unpar- 




CALCULI. 213 

donable. The haggard countenance, copious perspirations, and the fre- 
quent glances toward the flanks, joined to the straddling gait and to the 
desperate but at the same time guarded struggles, are all opposed to 
such conclusions. Were a proper examination instituted, the real nature 
of the affection would at once be made apparent, beyond the possibility 
of error. 

Insert the greased arm up the rectum, and, when fully advanced, 
make pressure downward; the dilated 
bladder will then be under the hand. 
The best remedies are sulphuric ether 
and laudanum, which should be given in 
large quantities. Four ounces of each 
should, in a quart of cold water, be ad- 
ministered by the mouth : the like quan- 
tities, blended with three pints of cold 
water, ought to be thrown up as an injec- 
tion. The last being given, the hand 
should be placed over the opening and 
pressed upon it for ten minutes. Should mode to ascertain the distention op 

THE BLADDER. 

one dose not succeed, in a quarter of an 

hour the injection may be repeated. Again and again it must be had 

recourse to ; till the spasm is vanquished or till the urine flows freely 

forth. 

Should the hoi'se be seized where no medicine can be obtained, then 
extract blood from free openings till fainting takes place. Several small 
depletions are very weakening, and a large quantity of the vital fluid 
drawn at diiferent times is far less likely to overcome the disease than 
one full venesection. Open both jugulars : allow the blood to flow 
from both veins till the water rushes forth or the animal falls, when, 
insensibility being produced, everything like spasm disappears, and the 
bladder will mechanically empty itself. Should not such a relief ensue, 
the greased arm may be inserted up the rectum, and gentle pressure 
made upon the gorged viscus. Advantage is thus taken of the animal's 
insensibility to adopt a mode of relief which we dare not hazard while 
consciousness is retained. 

CALCULI. 

Stones within the urinary apparatus are designated by various names, 
that are derived from the situations in which they are found. Thus 
renal calculus represents a stone which has been discovered within the 
pelvis of the kidney. XTretal calculus implies a stone found within the 
tubes leading from the kidneys to the bladder ; but calculi of this kind 



214 CALCULI. 

are as yeh unknown in the horse. Cystic calculus signifies a stone which 
resides in the cavity of the bladder. Urethral calculus denotes a stone 
which was detected within the passage leading from the bladder. Of 
these the cystic are altogether the largest, and the renal, at a consider- 
able distance, rank as the next in magnitude. All consist of carbonate 
of lime or of common chalk, held firmly together by the secretion of the 
mucous membrane. 

The symptoms which characterize renal calculus are not well marked. 
The urine may become purulent, thick, opaque, gritty or bloody. Exer- 
tion may provoke extreme anguish, resembling a severe fit of colic ; but 
the attack is distinguished from genuine gripes by the back, during the 
pain, being always roached. However, the most decided symptom is 
of a negative nature ; being the absence of stone in the bladder to 
account for the diseased urine. The inference is, moreover, strengthened 
if, when the hand within the rectum is carried upward, pain and alarm 
are elicited; or if pressure made upon the loins causes the animal to 
shrink. 

Cystic calculus is denoted, as is the previous kind of stone, by certain 
conditions of the urine. Added to these general signs, the water, when 

flowing forth, will often be suddenly stopped, 
and every emission is followed by violent 
straining. Abdominal pains also are pres- 
ent; but the back is rather hollowed than 
roached. The point of the penis is, in par- 
ticular instances, constantly exposed; and 
the horse, when going down hill, sometimes 
pulls up short, either to recover from torture 
or to relieve the bladder. 

The way to ascertain the presence of cystic 
calculus is to make an examination per rec- 
A CERTAIN METHOD OF ASCERTAINING IF tum. Makc thc iuvcstigation with all gen- 

THERE BE CALCULUS IN THE BLADDER. ° 

tleness. The foreign body may then be dis- 
tinctly felt; even its size, form, and irregularities can by this means be 
discovered. 

Urethral calculus is a small stone which, during the flow of urine, 
has been carried out of the bladder and is spasmodically grasped by the 
muscle of the urethra. The passage is effectually closed and great suf- 
fering is induced. Should the stone be impacted within the exposed 
part of the canal, the precise situation is easily told. Behind the stop- 
page the passage is distended by fluid; while before it all is natural. 
The calculus should be cut down and removed ; the wound being after- 
ward dressed with a solution of chloride of zinc — one grain to the ounce 




HEMATURIA. 



215 



of water. This is an easy and by no means a dangerous operation 
Any person of ordinary skill having a sharp knife may undertake it. 

For renal calculus little can be done. That little, however, consists 
in mingling two drachms of hydrochloric acid with every pail of water, 
and allowing the animal to imbibe as much as it pleases. Should the 
medicated drink be refused, the horse must be starved into accepting it. 
With this liquid, however, the stone must be small to be dissolved ; but 
it effectually checks the further increase of the calculus. 

Lithotomy is the name given to that operation by which large stones 
are removed from the bladder of the horse. It is far too complicated 
and too serious a proceeding to be entrusted to any general reader. No 
direction which possibly could be misconstrued shall, therefore, be at- 
tempted. When an operation is required for stone in the bladder, a 
qualified veterinary surgeon had better be employed. Mr. Simmonds, 
of the Royal Yeterinary College, Camden Town, however, deserves 
prais# for having invented an instrument by means of which stone can 
generally be removed from the bladder of the mare without resort to 
the knife being necessary. 



HEMATURIA, OR BLOODY URINE. 

The name fully characterizes this affection. The blood emitted may 
consist of small clots ; it may congeal after it has left the body ; or it 
may be entirely mingled with — giving a brownish tinge to — the water. 
Upon the exhibition of 
this disorder, always treat 
the symptoms first ; when 
all chance of immediate 
danger has disappeared, 
examine the body to as- 
certain whence the hemor- 
rhage proceeded, because 
in this affection the symp- 
toms really constitute the 
disease ; and when the 
first has disappeared, the 
last is cured. 




A HOESE SUFFEEINQ FROM HEMATUKIA, OR BLOODT URINE. 



The extent of the bleeding, of course, regulates the symptoms. When 
that is copious, the breathing is short and quick ; the pupils of the eye 
are dilated; the pulse is not to be felt at the jaw; the head is pendu- 
lous; and the visible mucous membranes are cold as well as pallid. 
Lifting the head produces staggering; if continued, the animal would 



216 HEMATURIA. 

fall. The back is reached ; the flanks are tucked up, and the legs widely 
separated, as though the horse was aware of its inability to support its 
body. 

The treatment consists in disturbing the sufferer as little as possible ; 
in acting upon the report received, for in a case of this kind it is hardly 
credible there should be any mistake. Administer, as gently as it can 
be done, two drachms of acetate of lead in half a pint of cold water, 
or as a ball, if one can be delivered. If this has no effect, in a quarter 
of an hour, or sooner should the symptoms demand haste, repeat the 
dose, adding, however, one ounce of laudanum or two drachms of pow- 
dered opium. Give two more drinks or balls of the like composition; 
but should these be followed by no beneficial result, change the medicine 
after the administration of one ounce of acetate of lead. 

When the indications are not alarming, the horse may be left for a 
couple of hours, with strict orders that the animal be watched, but on 
no account disturbed. Should, however, activity be required, obtain 
some of the coldest water, and have several pailfuls dashed from a 
height upon the loins. After this inject some of the same fluid, allow- 
ing the water to flow freely forth from the anus — the object only being 
to procure the advantages of excessive cold. For medicine, a trial 
may be made of the ergot of rye. Pour on to four drachms of the 
drug half a pint of boiling water, and, when cold, add one ounce of 
laudanum and four ounces of dilute acetic acid — not vinegar, as that 
always contains sulphuric acid, which would counteract the action of 
the lead. Two drinks, two enemas, (each lasting twenty minutes,) and 
any quantity of water upon the loins will serve for the second hour. 

If these remedies have produced no change, all further treatment 
must be suspended for eight hours, at the expiration of which period 
the treatment may be resumed, and the previous measures repeated. 

Should the hemorrhage have ceased, leave the horse undisturbed for 
the night. On the following day, if no blood has been noti(?ed, have 
the animal gently led under cover. Then proceed to examine the horse 
per rectum. Jf the kidneys are not enlarged, hardened, or sensitive, 
and if the bladder is without stone, but of its natural thickness, there is 
every prospect of a favorable termination. 

Should the bladder be thickened, adopt the treatment laid down for 
cystitis; if stone is discovered, an operation is indicated; be the kid- 
neys disorganized, the case is hopeless. If none of these are present, 
then any of the following medicines may be experimented with, it 
always being uncertain which will prove beneficial : — 

Extract of catechu In one-ounce doses daily. 

Strong infusion of oak bark .... Three pints daily. 



DIABETES INSIPIDUS. 21t 

Alum One ounce daily. 

Sulphate of iron or of copper . . . One ounce daily. 
Muriatic acid Six drachms daily. 

DIABETES INSIPIDUS, OR PROFUSE STALING. 

In this affection, which, properly treated, is but a passing annoyance^ 
the thirst is enormous ; but more fluid is voided than the animal drinks. 
The strength and condition are quickly lost, while the flesh fades rapidly 
away. 

Either the horse has been tampered with by the groom, or the hay, 
oats, or beans are unsound. A sudden change of water is said to pro- 
duce the disorder ; but that, probably, is far more a stable excuse than 
an established cause. However, change both food and water. Take 
into the stable two slips of blotting-paper. Dip the ends of them into 
some of the urine, which will always be retained in the interspaces of 
the brick flooring. Smell one piece. If it communicates a scent re-- 
sembling violets, that is proof positive turpentine has been administered. 
Dry the other piece. Should that, when perfectly dry, and a light is 
applied, prove to be touch-paper, the evidence is conclusive: "sweet 
niter" has been secretly given to the animal. Should both these tests 
fail, the groom is innocent, as other diuretics are unknown in the stable. 

The horse should not be taken out while the prominent symptom 
lasts; it is languid; is unfit for work or even exercise. No brutality 
can quicken the body when the vital powers are exhausted ; but inatten- 
tion to the suggestion of mere humanity may change a slight and tem- 
porary evil into a severe and critical disorder — nephritis. 

A pail of good linseed tea, made by pouring boiling water on whole 
linseeds, and afterward allowing the infusion to stand till lukewarm, 
should be constantly before the manger. The animal may drink accord- 
ing to the dictates of its condition. The linseed, when strained off and 
mixed with sound bruised and scalded oats, may be given as food. No 
hay or grass should be allowed. Attend to the grooming, although it 
is a sick horse and does not go out. Nothing relieves the kidneys more 
than the restored action of the skin. A ball may be given every day. 
It should consist of — 

Iodide of iron One drachm. 

Honey and linseed meal A sufficiency. 

Or, should a drink be preferred, dilute — 

Phosphoric acid One ounce. 

Water One pint. 

Give night and morning. 



218 



ALBUMINOUS URINE. 



The author was once prepossessed in favor of iodide of potassium 
for the cure of diabetes. He is indebted to Mr! Woodger, the excel- 
lent practical veterinary surgeon of Paddington, for a knowledge of the 
very superior efficacy of the drug just named. It exercises a potent 
action over the kidneys, at the same time it is a first class tonic, and in 
a surprising manner reduces the desire for fluids. It is in all respects 
the exact medicine which could be wished for in a case of diabetes 
insipidus. 

ALBUMINOUS URINE. 

Two cases of this description occurred in the extensive practice of the 
late William Percivall, Esq, They are narrated in the admirable work 
entitled "Hippopathology," bequeathed to posterity by the estimable 
author. The present writer having been honored by the friendship of 
the gentleman named, is, from frequent conversations upon the subject, 
the better able to describe and to depict the disorder. 

The positions of both horses were remarkable. One stretched the 

fore and hind legs out, 
as though it were about 
to urinate ; the other 
roached the back and 
brought the hind feet 
under the body as far as 
possible. Turning in the 
stalls was, in each case, 
accomplished with diffi- 
culty ; and the straddling 
gait remarkable in both, 
indicating the seat of the 
affection. 

Some urine being 
caught by the groom, it 
was thick but clear — like melted calves' foot jelly — and, when cold, the 
surface was uneven. Bichloride of mercury being added to a portion 
of the fluid, caused a thick, colorless, opaque substance — resembling 
coagulated white of egg — to be thrown down, leaving a clear straw- 
colored liquor above the settlement. Another portion being first 
treated with acetic acid, afterward mixed with prussiate of potash and 
subsequently boiled, became in appearance like to milk. With time, 
however, a white sediment occurred, leaving the fluid perfectly clear. 

Mr. Percivall's treatment was mildly depletive. He bled moderately, 
gave a laxative, and applied mustard to the loins for a brief space. 




THE POSITIONS ASSUMED BY HORSES HAVING ALBUMINOUS URINE. 



ALBUMINOUS URINE. 



219 



Perfect rest, strict attention to diet, and repeated doses of opium, con- 
stituted the after-measures. It is also mentioned that diuretics, tonics, 




THE TESTS FOR ALBUMINOUS URINE. 

A. The appearance of the urine when cold, being partially rough on the surface. Sometimes, however, 
the fluid is merely thicker than usual, appearing like water in which a portion of gum has been dissolved. 

B. The white precipitate produced by the addition of a portion of the solution of bichloride of mer- 
cury. 

C. Some urine to which a little acetic acid was first added. A portion of the solution of prussiate of 
potash was subsequently introduced. The liquid was then boiled, when it became thick, white, and 
opaque, like milk. 



and stimulants were tried, but all proved injurious. Both animals 
ultimately recovered. 

Those who desire ampler details are referred to "Hippopathology," 
by W. Percivall, published by Longman & Co. 



CHAPTER X. 

THE SKIN — ITS ACCIDENTS AND ITS DISEASES. 



MANGE. 

This troublesome disease, which is the itch of the stable, generally 
preys upon the poorly nurtured, the aged or the debilitated. Neglect 
is the almost necessary associate of poverty; loss of pride attends loss 
of means, for seldom can the spirit of man brave the frowns of fortune. 
The want of emulation is always seen most emphatically without the 




SYMPTOMS OF MANGINESS WHEN CAUGHT IN THE FIEID. 

doors of the home ; the garden denotes the failure of industry, and the 
stable languishes under an absence of activity. The grooming is avoided ; 
the horse's food is proportioned to the master's means, and is not given 
at regular hours ; coarse diet and a filthy abode generate that weakness 
which will assuredly breed mangle. 

The disease, once developed, is highly contagious ; all horses standing 
near the one affected, all that may touch it, or the shafts to which it was 
harnessed, or anything that has been in contact with the contaminated 
body, are inoculated. The very robust, to be sure, may escape ; but this 
circumstance is to be regarded as the most stringent test of actual 
(220) 



MANGE. 



health rather than as the declaration of that state which the majority 
of mankind are pleased to term perfect condition. The animal which 
escapes must be of so sound a body as to afford no nutriment to the 
disorder which preys upon debility. Probably not one horse in ten. 
thousand could resist so searching a test ; the trial, however, after all, 
would be no more than a negative proof; and it is to be much regretted 
that science, up to the present time, has not discovered any means by 
which the presence of established health can be demonstrated. 

Mange depends upon the presence of an insect which is classed with 
spiders, though to the uninitiated it looks, under the microscope, far 
more like a deformed crab. A representation of this parasite, very 
highly magnified, is here given, from Dr. Eras- 
mus Wilson's paper upon the subject; and the 
reader may indulge his ingenuity by discovering 
its likeness to the spider. 

The parasites are, when attentively searched 
for, to be recognized by the naked eye. Any 
man, by scratching the roots of the hair upon 
the mane of a mangy horse, may loosen a por- 
tion of scurf; let this scurf be received or cast 
upon a sheet of white paper. The paper then 
should be subjected to a strong light ; the glare 
of the noonday sun is to be preferred, as warmth 
greatly influences the activity of the parasites. 
Numerous very small shining points may thus 
be seen moving about the mass in all directions, 
insects, and, considering the easy means we now possess of demonstra- 
ting their existence, it seems astonishing that veterinary science was so 
long before it recognized the true source of the contagion. Even at 
the last moment, the sight was quickened by the research of a human 
physician, Dr. Erasmus Wilson ; but after that gentleman soon followed 
Mr. Ernes, veterinarian, of Dockhead. 

Mange would be far less general than it is, did not the convenience or 
the prejudice of mankind predispose them to favor a "run at grass." 
The horse there placed is all at once taken from a stimulating diet,, 
while, the groom being relieved of his charge, foulness accumulates upon 
the coat. The animal, instead of standing still and feeding upon nour- 
ishing provender, has to travel far and to distend the stomach with a 
watery substance before the cravings of hunger can be appeased and 
satiety impress the creature with a consciousness that existence has 
gathered a sufficient support. The quadruped while at grass is neces- 
sitated to be eating the major portion of both day and night; little 




THE MANGE INSECT. 



Those points are the 



222 MANGiE. 

leisure is left from the cravings of appetite for rest or for repose. No 
comfortable bed is placed beneath the jaded limbs. There may be an 
open shed under which all the inhabitants of the field are free to shelter 
themselves from the storms of autumn and from the colds of early morn- 
ing. That building is, however, generally taken possession of by horned 
cattle, or by the victor of the steeds, and none but favorites are allowed 
to share the comfort of the tyrant. 

It is assuredly true that the horse, in its primitive state, must have 
galloped over the plains free from human care and without a roof to 
harbor it. In a similar state man also must once have existed. The 
early Britons are described as walking about in painted costume, and as 
living on acorns and wild berries. Which of her Britannic Majesty's 
present subjects would like for six weeks in every year to return to the 
habits of our ancestors? The horse is even more artificial than man 
himself. It proves nothing, therefore, that the creature has existed 
upon the plain ; any more than the possibility of rearing human beings 
apart from civilization can establish that the latter mode is beneficial to 
the body's development. Man has lost the desire for a wild existence. 
Then, why is the horse expected to be benefited by a return to the so- 
called natural state, although securely fenced from that freedom and 
extent of choice which primitive nature would have afforded? 

Horses, when huddled together, often commit fearful injuries upon 
their companions. The creatures are unused to the society into which 
they are forced, and awkwardness is apt to be rude. Any want of man- 
ners in the heels of a horse is a serious business. But, to put upon one 
side so weighty an argument against the grass field, as foreign to the 
present subject, — all sorts of animals are there congregated. Some are 
turned out "to regain condition;" some to become "fresh upon the legs;" 
and some to live cheaply till their services are required. Others are 
allowed "a run," after some virulent disorder; and others merely to 
afford time for the eradication of obstinate disease. The pony, the cart- 
horse, the thorough-bred, and the roadster, — all are crowded together. 
All sizes and conditions meet as at a common table. Is it very wonder- 
ful, or much out of the scope of ordinary probability, if one of the creat- 
ures so exposed, so fed, and so tended, should engender mange ? A few 
years back, the children kept at Yorkshire schools were much exposed 
to a similar affection. Those babes, however, had not been more accus- 
tomed to cleanliness than the horse, nor were they exposed to half the 
neglect which the animal at grass is obliged to endure. Is it then sur- 
prising that the lower creature should breed a disease like to that which 
afflicts the human being? Let mange appear in one, and the rest are 
prepared by exposure and unwholesome food to imbibe the disorder ; 



MANGE. 223 

the contagion rapidly spreads; posts and rails are loosened or over- 
thrown by horses rubbing against them ; or, should such things be want- 
ing, constant irritation instructs instinct, and the miserable animals scrut) 
one against the other in the open space. 

Besides the grass field, foul lodging or filth and poor provender will 
breed mange in the horse, as the same causes operating upon the human 
subject will engender a like disorder. It is sad to think that with the 
horse, as years increase, ailments accumulate and strength departs ; it is 
sad to think, that as the animal's life becomes more hard to sustain, its 
food is always the less nourishing and its labor the more exhausting; 
that as care is necessary, so is neglect encountered; that the wretched 
quadruped at length is sold to some costermonger, who, when he makes 
the purchase, nicely calculates how many days of labor the emaciated 
life is capable of before it is turned over to the knacker. Many a noble- 
man must have looked upon an animal in the last stage of a weary life 
which was formerly the companion of his pleasures. The rusty, lean, 
and worn-out carcass most probably was not recognized, or how must 
reflection have whispered that power was not given to turn away exist- 
ence into wretchedness after willfulness had rendered the body less 
capable of sustaining suffering ! 

In the vast majority of cases this disease first appears in the mane, 
among the hairs of which a quantity of loose, dry scurf is perceptible. 
Before such a sign, however, is to be recognized, excessive itchiness is 
exhibited. The disease, once established, soon extends to the head, to 
the neck, to the withers, to the sides, to the loins, and to the quarters ; 
only in very exceptional cases are the legs exposed to its attacks. As 
the disorder proceeds, the hair falls ofi", leaving vacant places upon the 
body; these have a peculiar, dry, acrid, and irritable appearance; they 
suggest that portions of the body have been scorched with quick-lime, 
so irregular, patched, and scabby are the parts just referred to. The 
integument in these places greatly thickens and is no longer soft and 
pliable as a lady'» glove, but becomes corrugated or thrown into well- 
defined folds. 

The hairs, however, are not all removed; a few and only a few re- 
main; these cling with exceeding tenacity to the surfaces which their 
fellows have quitted. The force required to pull out one of these 
remaining hairs is somewhat surprising, and the hair being extracted, 
the roots, upon close examination, will be discovered enlarged and far 
more vascular than is usual. 

The above are the broad and more obvious indications of mange. 
However, should the diseased locality be more minutely inspected, a 
number of small pimples are discerned; these elevations are clustered 



224 



MANGE. 



upon different spots. As they ' mature, the point of each contains a 
Very slight quantity of gelatinous fluid; the vesicles ultimately burst; 
the contents exude and become dry through the absorption of the atmo- 
sphere, forming incrustations upon the surface. Add to this, the irrita- 
tion provokes the diseased animal to scrub itself against any irregular, 
projecting surface which may be at hand. Raw places, frequently of 
magnitude, are often occasioned by the friction so rudely applied ; from 
this source another set of crusts spring up. The places which are 
denuded, therefore, may present a very varied aspect, but still the parched 
appearance of the scurfy and dry skin affords the best external evidence 
of the presence of mange. 

An animal, which from being gray in youth has grown white with age, 





A MANGY PIECE OF SKIN. 



THE HEAD OP AN OLD, MANGY WHITE HORSE. 



still retains to its death the signs of its youthful color upon its skin. 
The integument is dark, although the hair may have lost the last vestige 
of its original hue; the checkered appearance established by mange 
gives to the white horse a particularly ragged and dejected aspect. 
Unfortunately, man is not, at the present moment, sufficiently enlight- 
ened to recognize the 
symptoms which indi- 
cate»an approaching at- 
tack of mange ; but the 
animal energetically an- 
nounces the malady so 
soon as the contami- 
nation is established. 
The disorder being con- 
firmed, its existence is 
readily ascertained ; the fingers have only to be inserted among the roots 
of the mane, and the part titillated with the nails. The horse thus 
treated will stretch forth the head and neck, will compose its features 




THE TEST POB MANQE. 



MANGE. 225 

into an expression of excessive pleasure, and will continue motionless 
so long as the hand remains upon the crest. 

This sign, being witnessed, may be esteemed conclusive. Let such an 
animal be placed in the sunshine for an hour, should the weather per- 
mit; otherwise allow it to stand in the warmest house which is unoccu- 
pied ; then have the coat thoroughly dressed or whisked, until all the 
loose scurf and incrustations are removed ; afterward have the followino- 
ointment well rubbed in. Mind the man who whisks the horse goes 
near no other animal for eight and forty hours. See that every portion 
of the skin, from the tip of the nose to the point of the tail, is anointed ; 
mark that no crevice or irregularity escapes, from the bottom of the 
coronet to the apex of the ears. 

Liniment for Mange. 

Animal glycerin Four parts. 

Creosote Half a part.' 

Oil of turpentine One part. 

Oil of juniper Half a part. 

Mix all together, shake well, and use. 

It is impossible to state accurately how much will be required to dress 
the horse — the disease, the coat, and the size vary so materially in dif- 
ferent animals. About one pint and a half is,, however, the general 
quantity employed for one application ; every portion of the coat must 
be saturated, and in that condition the animal should be left till two 
cleardays have expired. Thus, supposing the liniment to be used upon a 
Monday, it is left on until the following Thursday. Then have the sur- 
face washed with soft soap and warm water; dry the body and allow 
the animal to stand in a warm spot as before, so that every portion of 
moisture may evaporate. Afterward employ the whisk as has been pre- 
viously directed; subsequently repeat the anointing. That operation 
must be again gone through for the third and last time after two clear 
days have once more expired, when the disease ought to be cured ; all 
the insects should have perished, and the skin have been benefited by 
the stimulation to which it has been subjected. 

There are many preparations employed to cure* mange. All have 
some repute, though all (save that already given) are attended with 
some danger. The author, however, will recite two, at the same time 
warning the reader that neither of those which follow can be sincerely 
recommended. 

Ointment for Mange. 

Strong mercurial ointment Three ounces. 

Soft soap One pound and a half. 

Mix. 

15 



226 



PRURIGO. 



Wash for Mange. 

Corrosive sublimate One drachm. 

Spirits of wine One ounce. 

Tobacco (made into an infusion) One dunce. 

Hot water (which is to be poured into the tobacco) . . One quart. 
Dissolve the corrosive sublimate in the spirits of wine. Soak the tobacco in 
the boiling water. When cold, mix. 

The question has been much debated, " whether man can derive the 
itch from an animal?" Imaginary proofs favoring the possibility are 
every now and then confidently promulgated ; but all doubts seem to 
have been put to rest by the investigations conducted by M. Bourguig- 
non. That gentleman demonstrated the unfitness of one creature to 
support the parasite generated by another. Horses may be violently 
irritated by insects bred by fowls; but, remove the birds, the supply 
ceases, and the irritation dies away. So an individual handling mangy 
horses may get some of the acari upon him and cause vexatious itching; 
but let the man keep away, from the contaminated stable and the sensa- 
tion is quickly lost. The repeated and repeated renewal of the pest 
gives a seeming warranty to the popular belief. Certain disorders 
assuredly are communicable throughout every species of life, as though 
to prove to the stubbornness of mankind that all nature is akin. Such 
are hydrophobia in the dog, and glanders in the horse; were all afi'ec- 
tions, however, equally interchangeable, the inhabitants of this world 
would speedily become one breathing mass of disease. 



PRURIGO. 

This affection may lead many a gentleman to imagine his horse has 

caught the mange; the lead- 
ing symptom in each disorder 
is the same. Excessive irrita- 
bility of the skin is, in prurigo, 
generally exhibited during the 
spring of the year; the animal 
will rub itself with a fury which 
often removes portions of the 
coat, but which never exposes the 
dry and corrugated patches that 
characterize genuine mange. 
It is very annoying to behold 
the horse, when in the stable, scrubbing its neck upon the division to the 
stall ; it is provoking to witness the animal leave its corn for the same 




THE PROOF OF PRURIGO. 



RING- WORM. 227 

employment. It excites the fancy of the master and conjures up the 
dread of every cleanly horse proprietor; the symptom is, however, 
easily eradicated. It only denotes heat of body; let a portion of the 
hay be abstracted and a couple of bundles ot cut grass be allowed eack 
day ; let a mash be given night and morning, until the bowels freely 
respond, and, without further measures, the annoyance usually ceases. 

The irritation may not, however, subside so quickly as shall be desired ; 
to hasten its departure, either of the annexed may be applied externally : 

Washes for Prurigo. 

Animal glycerin One part. 

Simple water or rose-water Two parts. 

■ Mix. 

Sulphuric acid One part. 

Water Ten parts. 

Mix. 

Creosote One part. 

Oil Eight parts. 

Mix. 

Either of these probably will answer, but the writer strongly recom- 
mends the first ; at the same time it is well to try and reach the source 
of the disease, or to improve the blood. For this purpose the following 
drink should be given every night after the last meal : — 

Drink for Prurigo. 

Liquor arsenicalis One ounce. 

Tincture of muriate of iron One ounce and a half. 

Water One quart. 

Mix, and give half a pint for a dose. 

A week after the irritation has subsided, all medicine may be with- 
drawn; but it is always well to see that a sufficiency of exercise be 
given, and to allow an extra feed of oats with a pot of porter every 
day. These last will restore the strength ; for every form of disease is 
to be regarded as the most emphatic testimony of weakness. 



RING-WORM. 

This affection at first is simply a disfigurement; but, if neglected, it 
becomes a troublesome disorder. In the primary instance, the hair falls 
off in patches, leaving visible a scurfy skin ; some say there are pimples 
Muder the scurf, but the author must confess he was unable to discern 
them in those cases which he examined. The scurfy particles, however, 
are somewhat large, and resemble, in no little degree, the scales which 




228 RING-WORM. 

form the bulk of bran. At first, these pieces or flakes of cuticle cover 
the entire surface; but ultimately they congregate upon the circum- 
ference, which, by their numbers, is made 
»MtiMlil,i\S\ > iQ assume a raised appearance. Should 

the ringf-worm not be attended to, the 
outward margin at last begins to ulcerate, 
becoming the more difficult to eradicate 
in proportion to the time of its contin- 
uance and the extent of the ulceration. 

For the cure of ring-worm, a rigid at- 
tention to cleanliness is imperative; the 
1/ 1 ■if"iii!iipni|pf^>5'/r parts should, at all events, be washed night 

A REPRESENTATION OF A RING-WORM ON A aud momlng wlth mild soap, and hot, soft 

water; to the places — these having been 
rendered perfectly dry — one of the following preparations must be 
applied and laid rather thickly upon the denuded spot : — 

Ointments for Ring-worm. 

Animal glycerin One ounce. 

Spermaceti One ounce. 

Iodide of lead Two drachms. 

Rub the glycerin and spermaceti together, and, when thoroughly incor- 
porated, add the iodide of lead, or use any of the appended : — 

Nitrate of lead Two drachms. 

Simple ointment Two ounces. 

Mix. 

Oil of tar Half an ounce. 

Simple cerate One ounce. 

Mix. 

Creosote Two drachms. 

Simple cerate One ounce. 

Mix. 

Oil of juniper One drachm. 

Simple cerate One ounce. 

Mix. 

Besides the above, which are not one-half of the remedies in general 
use, some parties are loud in the commendation of a saturated solution 
of a sulphate of iron. Others are strongly prejudiced in favor of pure 
liquor plumbi ; another class protest they employ nothing but compound 
alum -water, which invariably and speedily aifords relief There are 
people who regard a strong infusion of tobacco as a charm for ring- 
worm ; while another set will hear of nothing for that purpose but helle- 
bore ointment. 



SURFEIT. 229 

The author, however, has always employed the first preparation, which, 
in his hand, has never occasioned disappointment. It has, however, 
always been aided by the following drink, administered every night. 
No medicine could possibly act better than those here proposed; thef 
seem to go directly to the skin ; but as the state of the integument may 
be accepted as evidence with regard to the condition of the entire body, 
a most powerful alterative may not, in this instance, be out of place. 

Drink for Ring-worm. 

Liquor arsenicalis One ounce. 

Tincture of the muriate of iron .... One ounce and a half. 

Water One quart. 

Mix, and give every night half a pint for a dose. 

This drink must be continued till every vestige of the disease has 
disappeared. However, it frequently happens that, after the central 
bare spot has been cured, ulceration remains about the circumference. 
Treat this with either of the following lotions : — 

Permanganate of potash Half an ounce. 

Water Three ounces. 

Mix, and smear gently over the part six times daily. Or — 

Chloride of zinc Two scruples. 

Water . One pint. 

Mix. 

The ulcers should be punctually moistened with the last preparation 
at the periods already stated, and the horse should be thrown up during 
the treatment. The food should be of the best, and a month ought to 
be allowed for the cure. 

SURFEIT. 

Old practitioners generally entertain very false opinions concerning 
the importance of surfeit ; they being inclined to employ more stringent 
measures for its eradication than the real nature of the disease demands. 
The affection is rather annoying than dangerous; it makes its appear- 
ance suddenly, and seldom involves the entire body. It is a sudden rash 
or a quantity of heat spots bursting out upon the skin ; the spots are 
round, blunt, and slightly elevated; they resemble the blotches which, 
during hot weather, often appear upon the human countenance, only the 
horse's integument being so much more active than the skin of man, the 
outward affection in the animal may be regarded as proportionably the 
more severe. Frequently, during the eruption, the pulse is tranquil, the 
spirit and appetite being good; when such is the case, the lumps mostly 
disappear in a few hours. Still the food should be looked to ; about 
eight pounds of hay should be abstracted and two bundles of cut grass 



230 



SURFEIT. 



allowed per day ; the corn should be kept up or even increased, and a 
handful of sound, old beans, which have been properly crushed, should 
be mingled with each feed. The stable should be airy, and the following 
drink should be given every day for a month : — 

Liquor arsenicalis One ounce. 

Tincture of the muriate of iron .... One ounce and a half. 

Water One quart. 

Mix, and give once daily, one pint for a dose. 




A HORSE AFFECTED 'VnTH SURFEIT. 



Should the horse be young, and have been neglected throughout the 
winter, a surfeit sometimes appears which is of a different character. 
The lumps do not disappear; but an exudation escapes from the center 
of each. The constitution is involved in this form of disease, and the 
malady, if unattended to, is apt to settle upon the lungs. 

Should the attack assume the last appearance, on no account take the 
animal out, not even for exercise. Attend to the perfect cleanliness of 
the bed, and keep every door and window in the stable open during the 
day. Feed as directed for the previous form of surfeit, and allow two 
or three bran mashes whenever the bowels appear constipated ; but do 
not give mashes after the constipation is removed. The desire is not to 
weaken the system by purgation, but simply to relieve the body ; admin- 
ister the drink recommended above only, giving one night and morn- 
ing, but, should the appetite suffer, reduce the quantity, or withhold all 
medicine. 

Clothe warmly ; bandage the legs, and remove from the stall to a loose 



HIDE-BOUND. 



231 



box ; if the pulse suddenly sink, two pots of stout may be given at dif- 
ferent times during the day. If the appetite is bad, good gruel instead 
of water must be constantly in the manger ; cut carrots, if presented a 
few at a time, will generally be accepted. However, with all such care, 
a very speedy termination is not to be expected ; nature is casting forth 
something imbibed during a winter of neglect, and no art can quicken 
the process. The shortest cases of this kind mostly last a fortnight, 
during which time the treatment, and the entire treatment, merely con- 
sists in good nursing and in liberally supporting the body. 



HIDE-BOUND. 

Strictly speaking, the condition signified by the above term is not so 
much a disease as the consequence of exposure, of poor provender, and 
of neglect. Thrust a horse which has been accustomed to wholesome 
food and a warm stable, thrust such an animal into a straw yard and 
leave it there through the long and severe winter of this climate. Let 




ONE OF THE CAUSES OF HIDE-BOUND IN HORSES. 



the creature which has been used to have its wants attended to and its 
desires watched — let it for months exist upon a stinted quantity of such 
hay as the farmer cannot sell — let it go for days without liquid, and at 
night be driven by the horns of bullocks to lie among the snow or to 
shiver in the rain — let an animal so nurtured be forced to brave such 
vicissitudes, and iu the spring the belly will be. down, and the harsh, 
unyielding skin will everywhere adhere close to the substance which it 
coverB. 



232 LICE. 

Straw yards are abominations into which no feeling man should thrust 
the horse he prizes; and no feeling man should long possess a horse 
without esteeming it. The docility is so complete, the obedience so 
entire, and the intelligence so acute, that it is hard to suppose a mortal 
possessing a creature thus endowed, without something more than a 
sheer regard for property growing up between the master and the 
servant. 

Every amiable sentiment is appealed to by the absolute trustfulness 
of the quadruped. It appears to give itself, without reservation, to the 
man who becomes its proprietor. Though gregarious in its nature, yet, 
at the owner's will, it lives alone. It eats according to human pleasure, 
and it even grows to love the imprisonment under which it is doomed to 
exist. Cruelty cannot interfere with its content. Brutality may maim 
its body and wear out its life; but as its death approaches, it faces the 
knacker with the same trustfulness which induced it, when in its prime, 
to yield up every attribute of existence to gain the torture and abuse 
of an ungrateful world. 

Liberal food, clean lodging, soft bed, healthy exercise, and good 
grooming compose the only medicine imperative for the cure of hide- 
bound. The relief, however, may be hastened by the daily administra- 
tion of two of those tonics and alterative drinks which act so directly 
upon the skin : — 

Drink far Hide-hound. 

Liquor arsenicalis Half an ounce. 

Tincture of muriate of iron One ounce. 

Water One pint. 

Mix, and give as a dose. 

LICE. 

These parasites are the consequences natural to the states of filth and 
debility. Insects, which have been mistaken for lice, sometimes infest 
large stables and almost drive the horses frantic with the itching they 
provoke. Application after application, intended to destroy lice, is 
made use of. Every recognized source of contagion is exterminated. 
Internal as well as external medicine is resorted to, but every endeavor 
to remove the annoyance signally fails. The horses are fat and feed 
upon the best; yet they seem to breed the parasites peculiar to the 
opposite condition. At last some one points to the hen-roost which 
leans against the stable. That building is pulled down, and with it the 
nuisance disappears. 

It may to the reader appear strange that the application which killed 
lice did not destroy the insects derived from fowls. Those parasites 



LARVA IN THE SKIN. 233 

which were upon the horse doubtless perished; but the dressing being 
washed off, the pests came again and again, being supplied by the source 
of all the mischief. 

Insects breathe through the skin. On that account, a hornet is more 
readily destroyed by dropping a little oil upon the exterior surface than 
by immersing the head in hydrocyanic acid. All, therefore, requisite 
for the removal of lice is smearing the entire body with any cheap oil 
or grease. But when the skin is washed, the business is not ended 
Generally the horse troubled with lice is hide-bound, and may have 
various other affections derived from the debility which generated the 
parasites. 

LARVA IN THE SKIN. 

These annoyances are another result of turning an animal out to 
grass, the fly whence the trouble is derived never entering the stable. 
The insect rejoices in the freedonkof the field; and man, by turning out 
his horse, finds the creature a fitting spot for the deposit of its eggs. 
This body is carefully deposited upon the back or sides. The warmth 



a. The winter residence of the larva. 

h. The summer abode of the insect. 

c. A drop of tallow falling upon the center of the 




of the animal hatches the larva ; no sooner is it endowed with life, than, 
with the instinct of its kind, it burrows into the skin. The integument 
of the horse, however thick it may appear, is soon pierced by the active 
little maggot, which, thus snugly housed, retains its lodging until the 
following spring. During the winter, a small lump denotes its abiding 
place; but as the second summer progresses, a tolerably large abscess 
is instituted. 

The interior of the abscess, of course, contains pus. Upon that 

1. The spot through which the larva breathes. 

2. The insect, full size. 

3. The mouth of the parasite. 

4. The pus surrounding the body, and upon which 
the creature lives. 

5. The sac of the abscess. 

6. The fat of the horse, or the »,dipose tissue much 
swollen and inflamed. 

7. The skin. 

8. The superficial muscle. 

9. The muscle proper to the body of the animal. 

DIAGRAM OP THE LARVA ABSCESS, DIVIDED 
THROUGH ITS CENTER. 

secretion the insect lives and thrives. The inhabitant of a warm abode, 
and surrounded by its food, the early period of life no doubt is, for an 




234 LARVA IN THE SKIN. 

inactive being, highly agreeable. A division of one of these abscesses, 
when fully matured, is represented in the second cut, page 233. 

Such swellings are acutely painful and prove the sources of much 
annoyance. They mostly occur upon the back. The saddle cannot be 
laid on one of these tumors ; and, as the spine supports much of the 
harness, the proprietor has the vexation of beholding his horse rendered 
perfectly useless ; for suffering, should service be exacted, occasions the 
creature to excite displeasure ; besides, the pranks thus provoked by tor- 
ture often continue after the cause has been removed. 

Upon the summit of the abscess appears a black spot. It is at this 
spot the larva receives the air needed to support a dormant existence. 
This fact being known to certain people, the knowledge is employed to 
destroy the parasite. The swelling is first slightly greased, and then a 
drop of melted tallow is let fall upon the breathing place. By such 
means the insect is effectually suffocated, and assuredly dies. 

Others employ a darning needle as tte instrument of execution. The 
needle is thrust through the central spot into the swelling for three- 
eighths of an inch. The larva thereby is pierced, and the life certainly 
is sacrificed. 

Neither method occasions at the time the slightest pain to the horse, 
and therefore may by some persons be esteemed highly humane ; but, in 
the end, such plans of cure prove the very reverse. In either case the 
maggot dies ; but the business, unfortunately, is only rendered worse by 
killing the source of evil. The dead body putrefies. A foreign and 
corrupting substance beneath the skin may enlarge the abscess to many 
times its original dimensions. After all, the system has to cast forth 
the irritating matter, and for that purpose inflammation, with its attend- 
ant fever, must be perfected. Much suffering is thus occasioned, and 
the proprietor is, for several weeks, forced to forego the employment of 
a valuable servant. 

The safest, the surest, and the quickest manner of eradicating these 
parasites is, with the point of a lancet, slightly to enlarge the central 
opening, and then with the finger and thumb, applied on either side of 
the swelling, to squeeze out the intruder. The abscess rapidly disap- 
pears ; and it only requires a few dabbings with the solution of chloride 
of zinc, one grain to the ounce, to close the wound. However, the best 
manner to avoid such annoyances is not to endeavor at saving money 
by treating a domesticated animal as though it were an untamed quad- 
ruped. 



WARTS. 235 



WARTS. 



A wart, when of a fixed cartilaginous nature, should, in the horse, be 
eradicated immediately upon its appearance ; being permitted to exist, 
such growths always increase in number and in magnitude. By certain 
people, or rather by a tradition, these excrescences are imagined to 
breed, or it is thougTit that one can produce many. That warts are 
possessed of any such inherent property science refuses to acknowledge ; 
but the same system which has generated one may generate several. 
The faculty of casting forth such growths may even be encouraged by 
allowing them to remain ; and it is possible that the slight shock occa- 
sioned by their removal may alter the tendency of the body. Certain 
it is that, by some mysterious law, nature refuses to build up only for 
human agency to destroy. Youatt asserts that it was once fashionable 
to crop the ears of horses until animals were ultimately born with the 
ears ready shortened. 

A portrait of an extraordinary instance of warty disposition, show- 
ing the imprudence of permitting such accumulations to continue, is 
here given. The writer's expei'ience cannot at 
all equal the disfigurement there represented; 
the animal was the favorite saddle-horse of a 
lady who could not bear the idea of the creature 
being put to pain. One wart first appeared 
upon the inside of the thigh ; the motion of the 
legs used to chafe the excrescence, and frequent 
discharges of blood were the consequence. The 
growth increased in sizfe, and three times was it 
"charmed." However, the cure, said to be potent 
over the human being, was inoperative upon the 
horse; housewife's remedies were next resorted portrait op the head op a 

' HORSE WITH WARTS. 

to, but all of these proved equally unsuccessful. 

At length, smaller warts began to show ; it would have been easy to 
have removed the original excrescence, but the numerous after-growths 
assumed a form which would have rendered them difficult to destroy. 
Many of them came with wide bases and slight elevation ; to have 
attempted the excision would have almost necessitated the flaying of a 
living body. The remedy, which at first was easy, was by time rendered 
impossible; the horse being permitted to exist, could only see imper- 
fectly. It could not move or feed without hemorrhage being provoked. 
'I'he animal, of course, became useless; but still its kind mistress could 
not consent to its destruction. A country farrier, previous to the author 




236 WARTS. 

seeing the animal, had slit up one nostril to relieve the breathing, which 
before was much impeded. Of course nothing could be done for such an 
object. 

There are three different sorts of growth, all of which are recognized 
under the term "wart." The first is of a cartilaginous nature and is 
contained in a distinct sac or shell, which last is entirely derived from 
the cuticle of the skin. Upon the sac being divided, the substance 
drops out, leaving behind a perfectly clean cavity, which soon disappears. 
Little hemorrhage and less pain attend upon this trivial operation. The 
second sort also is cartilaginous, but, unlike the first, is not contained 
within a cuticular sac. It adheres firmly to the skin, and is apt to grow 
large ; sometimes it becomes of enormous bulk, when regarded simply 
in its character of a wart. The crown is rough and unsightly; the body 
is vascular, and the growth, from its magnitude and uneven texture, is 
apt to be injured, when it never heals, but invariably exhibits the ulcera- 
tive process in a tedious form. This species of wart is often to be 
found, though of a smaller development, upon the human hand. The 
third variety is hardly to be esteemed a true wart, and would not here 
be named, were it not universally accepted as one of these abnormal 
growths. It consists of a cuticular case, inclosing a soft granular sub- 
stance. 

It is impossible always to distinguish the first and third from the 
second ; therefore, in a case of this kind, it is advisable to cut into the 
excrescence as soon as it is large enough to be operated upon. When 
the warts are ascertained to be inclosed in a defined cuticular shell, the 
quickest and the more humane practice is to take a sharp-pointed knife 
and impale them, or run the blade through each in succession. The 
edge should be away from the skin, and the linife being withdrawn 
with an upward, cutting motion, the sac and substance are both sun- 
dered. This accomplished,- the interior is easily removed ; and all that 
can subsequently be necessary is to occasionally touch the part with the 
solution of the chloride of zinc, one grain to the ounce of water. 

When the growth proves of the fixed cartilaginous kind, no time 
should be lost in its removal. The quickest plan — and not, perhaps, 
the most painful method — of doing this is by means of the knife. The 
excrescence should be thoroughly excised, being sundered at the base. 
Some bleeding will follow. This may be readily commanded by having 
at hand a saucepan of water boiling on a small fire. Into the heated 
liquid a budding-iron should be placed, by which artifice sufficient heat 
is obtained to stimulate the open mouths of the vessels when the instru- 
ment is applied to the bleeding surface, without any danger being incurred 
of destroying the living flesh. 



TUMORS. 23T 

Should excision be objected to, the next best plan is the use of caus- 
tic. Strong acetic acid, only to be generally obtained as aromatic vin- 
egar, is the mildest cautery ; the next in strength is butter of antimony ; 
after that, ranks nitrate of silver, or lunar caustic ; and lastly, comes a 
preparation invented by Mr. Woodger, to whose perceptions the veteri- 
nary profession is so largely indebted. It consists of sulphuric acid, 
made into a paste with powdered sulphur, and applied by means of a 
flat piece of wood. 

Whichever remedy is adopted, it must be remembered that the appli- 
cation will occupy time in exact proportion to the mildness of the means 
employed. It may also be proper to hint to the reader that, as an 
animal has no foreknowledge to alarm its anticipatory fears, and as, the 
anguish past, the mind of the creature does not linger upon painful 
recollections, probably the knife is to be very much preferred. 

Some people remove warts by ligatures. To this custom the author 
strongly objects, for the following reasons : Because the process is slow ; 
because the pain is great and continuous, till the removal is accom- 
plished ; because the ligature soon becomes filthy, the wart, when large, 
often turning putrid before it falls off; and because, when small, the 
breadth of base and the slight projection render fixing a ligature an 
utter impossibility. 

TUMORS. 

It is impossible to particularize the nature^ of every tumor to which 
the horse is subject, such formations being so very various. Seldom 
are two cases met with in which a precisely 
similar structure is developed. More seldom 
are two cases encountered located upon the 
same part. These growths are liable to every 
possible change. One may be very small, but 
extremely malignant, or of that kind which 
seems to resent the slightest interference. Em- 
ploy the knife to this last sort, and incurable 
ulceration may start up. All remedies may be 
powerless and the life may be sacrificed. Such 
growths are, happily, rare in the equine species ; 
but the author has heard of their occurrence, 

' AN ABNORMAL GROWTH UPON A 

although it has not been his misfortune to en- horse's chbst. 

counter one. Another shall be of such enor- 
mous size as to impede the motions, yet will be perfectly bland in its 
nature. A portrait, not of the largest tumor which the writer has wit- 
nessed, but of the most awkwardly situated, is represented herewith. 




238 TUMORS. 

It was not malignant. The horse which carried about this burden was 
brought to the veterinary college during the time when the author was 
attached to that establishment. .The animal had previously been under 
the treatment of various veterinary surgeons. All had cut and cauterized 
the enlargement, but without reducing its magnitude. The wounds healed 
quickly, and the constitution appeared not to be in the slightest manner 
affected. 

Why was not the swelling removed with the knife, when the kindly 
nature of the growth had been ascertained? For good and sufficient 
reasons, No operation could, with the slightest prospect of success, be 
hazarded. In the first place, nature is apt to resent the loss of so large 
a substance, or, in other words, although the surgery may be perfect, the 
life, from some unexplained cause, is likely to depart before the operation 
is finished. In the next place, most bland tumors, when of magnitude, 
are of a semi-cartilaginous nature, and spring either from tendon or 
from bone — usually from the latter. This tumor impeded the action; 
hence it was inferred that the substance ramified among the fibers of the 
pectoral muscles. Those fibers are large, and are divided ; they present 
interspaces, between which the abnormal growth might readily penetrate. 
Now, unless every portion of the tumor were excised, the enlargement 
would sprout again, and the surgeon would be disgraced. To remove 
the pectoral muscle of a man, would be esteemed of little consequence, 
so that the life was preserved. But the limbs of the horse constitute 
the value of the creature's existence ; and to disable these from being 
safely moved, would be to return a burdensome life to the proprietor. 
Therefore that which is compatible with human surgery could not be 
entertained in veterinary science. 

A tumor may be small and soft, yet it must be respected. It may be 
hard, or even ulcerated and large, still its excision may be readily accom- 
plished. The majority of these growths which appear upon the horse, 
however, are not malignant, Nevertheless, let every man consult some 
duly qualified veterinarian of experience before he resorts to measures 
which, possibly, may lead to the acutest regret. 

One caution must be given before the subject is concluded. Gray 
horses, which have grown paler with age, or have become white, are 
liable to an incurable and malignant disease termed melanosis, which 
hereafter will be fully described. The presence of this disorder is 
generally testified by the appearance of some external tumor. Unless 
that enlargement be of great size arid admirably situated for removal, 
it on no account should be interfered with. Let, therefore, every light- 
gray or white horse having a tumor be submitted to some experienced 
judgment, and let the owner be guided by the opinion he receives. 



SWOLLEN OR FILLED LEGS. 239 



SWOLLEN OR FILLED LEGS. 

These are one of the most common troubles of the stable ; the coach- 
man is very apt to complain piteously that in the morning he is sure to 
find such and such a horse with the legs filled. Commonly the hinder 
limbs below the hock are thus affected ; sometimes the fore legs below 
the knee will be involved. The coachman mostly bandages the parts. 
In mild cases this resort may answer; but in bad instances the leg 





THE horse's leg OP A NATURAL SIZE. THE HOP.Se'S LEU WHEN FILLED. 

above the bandage is apt to enlarge. The cloth or flannel, before ap- 
plied, should be wetted ; this, however, affords but a temporary relief; 
the wet often causes the hair to curl, and the uniformity of the appear- 
ance is thereby spoiled. After some time, the bandage frequently leaves 
its impress upon the leg, and it is astonishing how long in peculiar cases 
this impress will continue. 

Swollen legs mostly occur in heavy animals and in overgrown carriage 
horses; such creatures are of weakly or soft constitutions. They have 
a vast tendency to become partially dropsical. Fast work exhausts the 
system of the carriage horse, while high food stimulates its natural dis- 
position toward disease. With heavy horses, the prolonged hours of 
labor ave equally debilitating, and the Sunday's stagnation generates 
disorder; neither have any innate hardiness to withstand injurious in- 
fluences; both, when highly fat, have the weakness inherent to their 
constitutions greatly increased. The quadruped, loaded with the accu- 
mulations of many months' repletion, may please the eye of the master; 
but it is rendered more subject to disease, and less capable of labor or of 
activity. 

Persons who require fast work, should employ light vehicles and 
small horses ; the creatures should be principally supported by grain — 
a little hay may be allowed during certain times, when the animal's 



240 SITFAST. 

attention requires to be engaged ; but the chief sustenance ought to 
consist of oats and beans. When the carriage is not wanted for the 
day, care should be taken to see the groom gives at least four hours' 
exercise. 

With regard to the heavy animals, the custom of blowing them out 
with chaff or hay is not to be commended. A good horse is surely 
deserving of good provender, and the best manger food is not generally 
deserving of any higher character than the word "good "may convey. 
A horse for work should be in sound flesh without being fat ; when not 
required, it should not be allowed to remain in the stable all day. Who, 
however, ever saw a cart-horse being exercised ? These animals have 
to stand in the stall of a heated stable throughout the Sabbath ; the 
excuse is, that the creatures may enjoy a day's rest. But four- hours' 
easy exercise given at different times, although it might occupy the time 
of the attendant, would assuredly greatly add to the comfort of the 
quadrupeds which he is paid to look after. 

When a horse is troubled with swollen legs, take it from the stall and 
place it in a roomy, loose box ; nothing more quickly removes this affec- 
tion than easy and natural motion. At grass, dropsy generally attacks 
the abdomen ; but the author has not heai'd of the legs being affected 
in the field, the limbs there being in constant action. Having placed 
the animal in a loose box, abstain from giving hay for some weeks ; pro- 
cure some ground oak-bark ; having damped the corn, sprinkle a handful 
of the powder among each feed of oats. Particularly attend to the 
exercise ; and should the legs still enlarge, do not allow bandages to be 
employed, but set both groom and coachman hand-rubbing till the natu- 
ral* appearance is restored. 

SITFAST. 

This, whenever it occurs, provokes great vexation. Generally it 
affects animals of the highest value or of fast capabilities, which are 
used only for saddle purposes. The, affection consists of a patch of 
horn, resembling a corn upon the human foot. These patches are not 
absolutely large, though of course in size they vary. Neither are they 
all similar in form or in thickness. In one respect, however, a family 
likeness runs throughout the kind. They are not simple corns, but their 
different nature is shown by a margin of ulceration. The situation 
which they invariably occupy is under the saddle-tree. Their presence, 
of course, obliges the horse to be disused ; and they are the more an- 
noying, since there is no chance of these comparatively trifling ailments 
disappearing without treatment. The treatment, moreover, cannot be 
speedy. Whatever measures may be resorted to, time is necessary for 




SITFAST. 241 

the cure ; and, during this space, the proprietor sees his horse in high 
health and spirits, but is forbidden to mount it because of a pettj 
blemish which, in his eyes, is perfectly contemptible. 
Sitfasts, though all said to be caused by the fric- 
tion of the saddle, have several distinct excitants. 
The saddle is without life, and cannot of itself injure 
the quadruped. It is common to account for a sit- 
fast by saying the saddle does not fit. Such may 
occasionally be the case ; for a saddle, if badly 
made, will chafe the skin and produce a sitfast. But 
this cause is in operation less often than is imagined. 
A retired surgeon, whom the author had the honor 
of visiting at Reigate, wore a cork leg. That •». sitfast, as it appears 

° UPON A horse's back. 

gentleman stated that, whenever the leg used to 
chafe the stump to which it was attached, he always considered his body 
was out of order. Medicine then was taken, and the symptom disap- 
peared. We mortals refuse to think the horse ails anything unless the 
animal is alarmingly prostrated. All smaller ills are disregarded ; yet 
that derangement of the stomach which caused the stump of a man's leg 
to become painful from pressure may; if not attended to, also cause the 
skin of a horse to exhibit a sitfast. 

An awkward horseman is the more frequent source of the complaint. 
There are gentlemen so very energetic as riders that the best of saddles 
may be readily moved under them. The saddle must be well made 
indeed which can, under no circumstances, be stirred upon the back to 
that extent which is required to generate a sitfast. Loose girths will 
likewise establish the nuisance, and so also may the saddle-cloth when- 
ever it is hastily put on so as to become thrown into a fold when the 
horse is mounted. 

The speediest cure for a sitfast is the knife. The excrescence is 
quickly removed ; and the wound, if treated with the solution of chloride 
of zinc, one grain to an ounce of water, soon heals. A more tedious 
plan of removal, and one not recommended by any proper feeling, is to 
rub into the sitfast, every night and morning, a small quantity of blis- 
tering ointment. Such is the usual direction ; but the ointment may be 
applied, for some time, to a layer of compact horn, before the true skin 
or flesh beneath is affected. The unguent must therefore cover the per- 
haps ulcerated margin of the sitfast; and even then it is a tedious and 
a painful operation, not likely to improve the disposition of an animal 
which it is so desirable to keep free from every excitement. 

While the sitfast is being operated upon, the bowels should be ren- 
dered pultaceous by bran mashes. Four of these per diem will usually 

16 



242 GREASE. 

loosen the most constipated body in two days. That effect being gained, 
while the food is liberal and the animal is led to plenty of exercise, give 
one of those drinks, night and morning, which are tonic to the system, 
but seem to exhaust their virtue upon the skin. 

Drink for Sitfasts. 

Liquor arsenicalis Half an ounce. 

Tincture of muriate of iron . . . Three-quarters of an ounce. 

Water One pint. 

Mix, and give. 

GREASE. 

This filthy disorder is a disgrace to every person concerned with the 
building in which it occurs ; it proves neglect in the proprietor, want of 
fitness or positive idleness in the groom, and culpable ignorance or the 
absence of the slightest moral courage in all people entering the doors 
of the stable. It is one of those disorders which it is easier to prevent 
than to cure. By an ordinary regard to cleanliness, and by an average 
attention to the necessities of the animal, this taint may be avoided ; 
wherever it is witnessed, it not only argues the human being to whom 
the building belongs to be in the lowest stage of degradation, but it also 
testifies to the sufferings endured by the poor creatures which are com- 
pelled to drag out life in such custody. 

The grease is, in the primary instance, inflammation of the sebaceous 
glands of the legs ; but it soon extends beyond the limits of its origin, 
and involves the deeper-seated sti'uctures. A white leg is more subject 
to the disorder than one of another color, and the fore limbs are almost 
exempted from the ravages of grease. The reason of that exemption is 
found in the greater proximity of the anterior extremities to the heart 
or to the center of the circulation. Consequently the vitality in the fore 
legs is more active, and the flow of blood much more energetic ; hence 
the anterior extremities can resist that ailment which fixes with impunity 
upon the posterior limbs. Added to this, in the fore legs the vessels 
describe almost perpendicular lines, whereas in the hind members the 
arterial current is impeded by numerous angles ; these conditions doubt- 
less operate upon the health of parts, but, above everything else, ranks 
the fact that the front legs are not subject to the same external causes 
as are the members more backwardly located. The stalls are drained 
from the manger to the gangway ; consequently all the contamination 
of the space in which the horse is confined flows toward the hind feet ; 
there are, moreover, other reasons, which the intelligence of the reader 
will not require should be particularized. 



G R E A S"E. 243 

Grease is banished from every decent stable ; it may, however, be occa- 
sionally encountered in situations very much secluded ; there yet remain 
places whence so foul a disgrace is never absent. The wretched animals 
which are employed in brick-yards, in dust-carts, and in drawing canal 
boats are hardly ever free from this loathsome disorder. These creatures 
labor incessantly, and are removed far from the wholesome check which 
brutality receives from public opinion ; they are resigned to the mercies 
of men who, as a class, are certainly not the most refined, and are seldom 
inconvenienced by any excess of feeling. The places, not stables, into 
which the miserable quadrupeds are thrust can rarely be entered without 
the peculiar smell which announces the existence of grease almost over- 
powering the stranger. The fact is unpleasant to human sense, but it is 
only right that the probable effect upon the creature, which is doomed 
for the duration of its weary life to inhale such an atmosphere, should 
be considered. 

Smell is perhaps the most acute sense with which the equine race are 
endowed ; the horse can appreciate that in which the human being vainly 
endeavors to detect even the slightest odor. Not only is the scent far 
more acute than that of man, but the two beings have to be compared 
as regards their habits ; the animal is most cleanly in its tastes. Flesh 
it abhors, and all fatty substance it shrinks from ; men eat such things 
with appetite. Then, the human subject can dwell, and even labor, in a 
tainted atmosphere with comparative impunity. A quadruped may be 
forced to toil in such a place ; but those who oblige the creature to do 
this kind of work know the certain consequences of the act. They buy 
cheap and old horses — animals which have suffered much, and have but 
a year or two longer to exist. Were younger or dearer quadrupeds 
purchased, in which an energetic constitution would render disease more 
malignant, and were such animals obliged to breathe such contamination, 
the loss in every way would be fearful. 

There is, at present, a great fuss made about sanitary laws ; but the 
attention of those to whom such subjects are confided seems to be en- 
grossed by man and his excretions. No one yet appears to have imagined 
that the subject involves life in all its varieties ; the horse cannot exist 
in the air which human lungs have exhausted ; man cannot live in the 
atmosphere in which the horse has perished. The two creatures are 
not, therefore, entirely distinct ; but the open nostrils and huge lungs 
of one horse can consume the oxygen which would support many men. 
Then, the dung of the horse, which is always exposed, gives off fumes 
only slightly less dangerous than those which emanate from the human 
body. Yet officers pry into alleys and into courts ; they enter the hab- 
itations of the poor, and count the number of those who sleep in each 



244 GREASE. 

room. The impacted people are pointed to as tlie source of certain dis- 
eases, and society shudders as the medical report is circulated. No one, 
however, visits the stable ; no one inquires whether horses live in the 
space which affords sufficient atmosphere to support existence ; no one 
has yet traced disease in man as probably originating in the close and 
contaminated fumes of nearly every London mews. Still, if the over- 
crowded rooms of the poor merit an elaborate report as so very danger- 
ous to society, may not the stifling and reeking condition of the stables 
deserve a passing comment in its relation to the same effect ? 

Cutting the hair from, and thereby exposing the hinder heels to the 
operation of cold and of wet is no unfrequent cause of grease. Such 
is a common practice with lazy horsekefepers when not stimulated by the 
proprietor's eye. In winter, when the legs most require warmth and 
protection, the heels are deprived of the covering which nature intended 
should protect them ; and parts where the blood flows most tardily are 
laid bare to the effects of evaporation and of frost. When the animal 
returns soiled from work, most grooms will sluice a pail of cold water 
over the legs ; the dirt is thereby washed off, but the legs are suddenly 
chilled, and soon become more cold, because of the moisture which they 
retain and of the evaporation which ensues ; for very few stablemen, 
finding the appearance pleasing to mortal perceptions, think about the 
comfort of the creature which is principally concerned. 

Sudden chill striking a part, and followed by gradually-increasing 
cold, will certainly induce congestion ; the foundation of disease is thus 
laid. The better plan would be to instruct the groom that appearance 
is secondary to the welfare of his charge. Order the man not to mind 
about leaving his horses so very clean and tidy ; never allow the hair, 
which grows long and luxuriant about the heels, to be cut off. Leave 
strict orders that, when the animal returns with dirty legs, the stableman 
is to take several wisps of straw and rub them until the surface is quite 
dry. The absence of wet will greatly add to the comfort of the horse, 
while the friction will increase the circulation and prove the very best 
preventive to disease. With the moisture, of course, much of the dirt 
must be removed ; any which is left behind will readily fall out on the 
following morning, upon the hair being carefully hand-rubbed and 
combed. However, mind and see this is done, for it entails some 
trouble : and, if you are content with merely giving orders, the " old 
buffer's megrims" are sure to be laughed at and disobeyed. 

Turning out to grass, especially during the colder months, when the 
wet is particularly abundant, and the bite peculiarly short, is another 
fruitful source of this affection. If a well-bred, aged animal, which has 
done its work, after a life spent under the protection of the stable and 



GREASE. 



245 



in the enjoyment of its carefully-prepared diet, is, from mistaken mo- 
tives, turned into the field, life may be prolonged, but it is at the expense 
of much suflfering, with the almost certain visitation of grease in a 
virulent form. 

The earliest symptom of approaching grease 
is enlargement of the legs, accompanied by con- 
siderable heat of the skin. If the animals be 
now observed, they will be seen to be uneasy in 
their stalls ; the hinder feet are occasionally 
noisily stamped upon the pavement. Should 
the hair be examined, it will be discovered loaded 
with scurf about the roots, while one hind foot 
will be frequently seen employed to scratch the 
back of the opposite leg. 

Should these indications attract no attention, 
the hairs soon begin to stand on end or to pro- 
ject outward, as though each was actuated by a 
separate purpose, and each desired nothing so much as to avoid its fel- 
lows. At the same time, the part begins to exude a thick, unctuous 
moisture, from which the disease derives its name. This hangs upon all 
the hairs of the heel in heavy drops. It is an offensive secretion. It 
emits a remarkably pungent and a very peculiar odor, which, once 
inhaled, is never afterward to be forgotten. 

Should no regard be now bestowed upon the sufferer, and should the 
horse be worked on despite the lameness which it now exhibits, the skin 




A HORSE SCRATCHING ONE LEG 
WITH THE OTHER FOOT — A SYMP- 
TOM OF THE EARUESr APPEAR 
ANCE OF GREASE. 





imST STAGE OF CONFIRMED GREASE. 
EXUDATION. 



THE SECOND STAGE OF CONFIRMED GREASE. 
CRACKS. 



swells, while cracks, deep and wide, appear upon the inflamed integument. 
The lines of division ulcerate, sometimes very badly ; a thin, discolored, 
and unhealthy pus mingles with the discharge; the odor grows still more 
abominable, while the wretched animal becomes yet more lame. 




246 GREASE. 

Should, even at this period, no proper remedy be applied to check 
the disease, the leg enlarges. Proud flesh, or fungoid granulations, 
sprout from the lines of ulceration. The granulations grow in bunches, 
and have a ragged surface. Often the masses are 
of great size, and shake, as though about to fall, 
with every movement of the foot. The points, 
from exposure, become dry and hard ; their na- 
ture, from that of fungoid granulations, changes 
to a substance resembling horn, like which, they 
are without sensation. These bunches have been 
named " grapes," which they are vulgarly thought 
to resemble. The likeness, however, is very dis- 
tant — the one being pleasant to look upon, the 
other forming a painful and disgusting spectacle. 

THE THIRD STAGE OF CON- ,-, . • , • , , . . ^ ■ i i i 

FIRMED GREASE. HORNY Howevcr luscnsitive the points or the bunches 

BUNCHES WHICH ARE COM- , ., ti., to.i i ,.i i. 

MONLT CALLED GRAPES. T^^J bccomc, thc limb itseli, throughout the disor- 
der, possesses a morbid sensibility. The gentlest 
touch occasions exquisite torture, and the animal will tremble lest the 
agony should be repeated. Upon the slightest impression, the leg is 
instantly snatched up, nor is it trusted again upon the earth until fatigue 
necessitates rest or till the cause of suffering has departed. Horses 
have even suppressed their urine, lest the fluid, splashing upon the seat 
of disease, should provoke any access of the infliction. Few greasy 
animals ever have a bed under them, the straw of which might arrest 
the liquid in its flight. Indeed, such a luxury might save them from one 
source of torture, but assuredly would start up another. The ends of 
the straw, pricking or even touching the disorder, would cause such 
agony as must occasion the animal constantly to stand in terror. 

One peculiarity, witnessed during grease, has not been indicated in 
the above illustrations. It has been purposely omitted, because, though 
invariably attendant upon the disorder, it in reality forms no part of the 
malady, being only a sympathetic effect. The cutis is continuous with 
the coronet and lamina, which secrete the outward horn of the hoof. 
Any disease fixing upon the one, of course cannot but affect the other. 
The irritation which involves the skin of the leg, therefore, necessarily 
stimulates the growth of the foot. The hoof of a greasy leg, from this 
cause, often becomes of enormous dimensions ; but this peculiarity has 
not been noticed, because it was desired to keep the attention of the 
reader fixed wholly upon the more immediate symptoms of the loathsome 
affection. 

The remedy for grease is simple enough. Indeed, did not a sense of 
duty oblige it to be resorted to, the smell would, in the majority of per- 



GREASE. 247 

sons, induce it to be employed. In the first place, clip off the hair — if 
any remains to be cut off. The natural protector of the heels now can 
conserve nothing. It can only heat the skin and retain the discharge. 
This being accomplished, if the leg merely be hot and scurfy, have it 
thoroughly cleansed with curd soap and warm water. Then a cloth, 
saturated with the lotion for the earliest stage of grease, should be 
laid upon the inflamed integument. This should be removed so soon 
as it becomes warm, and another, also dripping, should immediately 
supply its place. Thus a wet, cold cloth should constantly cover the 
part till the heat is destroyed, or at all events is greatly mitigated. 

For this purpose, two men are required, one to remove and the other 
to apply. Four old cloths will be necessary. These, when removed, 
should be flung over a line, so that as large a space as possible may be 
exposed to the cooling action of the atmosphere. There is nothing so 
disagreeable in performing this office as might at first appear. The 
active agent of the lotion is a powerful disinfectant and deodorizer. 
The first cloth removes almost all the fetor, and hanging the wrappers 
subsequently over the line effectually purifies the atmosphere. The 
part being reduced to a comparatively natural temperature, the after- 
treatment consists in renewing the cloths so often as the heat returns; 
and in otherwise moistening the limb with some of the subjoined lotion 
thrice daily : — 

Lotion for the earliest stage of Grease. 

Animal glycerin Half a pint. 

Chloride of zinc Half an ounce. 

Water Six quarts. 

To be employed after the manner already directed. 

When the cracks, with ulceration, appear, the previous lotion is too 
weak to be of much service ; but the same treatment must be adopted : 
only one of the lotions subsequently given should then be used ; — 

Lotion for the ulcerative stage of Grease. 

Permanganate of potash or phosphoric acid One pint. 

Water Six quarts. 

Or— 

Chloride of zinc One ounce. 

Creosote Four ounces. ' 

Strong solution of oak bark One gallon. 

Both to be used after the manner of the previous solution. 
Should the spurious granulations have begun to sprout, lose no time 
in having the horse cast. Have near at hand a small pot, with a char- 
coal fire beneath it. Let the vessel be full of boiling water. Within 
the fluid, previous to the casting, insert several irons ; then throw the 



248 GREASE. 

animal. With a keen knife excise the external bunches of proud flesh. 
As each lump is removed, much bleeding will ensue ; therefore, before 
using the knife again, take an iron and lay it flat upon the raw surface. 
Should one not check the hemorrhage, return the first to the saucepan 
and apply a second. It is necessary to operate with as small a loss of 
blood as possible ; for horses having grease are always old and debil- 
itated. In this manner proceed till all the external growths are cut 
away. Then let the animal rise. Enough has been suffered for one 
occasion; more agony the exhausted system of the animal might not 
sustain. Besides, with every attention concerning the irons, the bleed- 
ing, generally, will not permit more to be accomplished. 

One thing has been forgotten. When removing the fungoid excres- 
cences, it is always well, for the comfort of the operator, to have the leg 
previously saturated with chloride of zinc; also to have a man, with a 
sponge and a quart of the solution, ready to bathe the limb as fresh sur- 
faces are exposed. Subsequently wet the leg frequently with the lotion 
last recommended. 

In another three days the animal may, a second time, be cast. The 
operation being again confined to the crop of growths which on the 
former occasion were exposed; all the previous directions should also 
be strictly carried out. After three days have once more been suffered 
to elapse, the horse, if necessary, should be thrown for the last time, and 
the knife once more employed. The after-treatment will depend much 
upon circumstances. If the ulceration predominates, employ the last 
lotion. Should the granulations appear likely to grow, make use of the 
first solution of chloride of zinc — only it should be double the strength 
which was originally recommended. When both ulceration and granu- 
lation appear equal, the first and last lotions may be alternated. 

Sach are the chief remedies necessary for the cure of grease. The 
other measures are : the removal to a loose box thickly bedded with 
refuse tan ; the food should be liberal — old beans are now of every ser- 
vice ; each feed of oats should be rendered damp, and a handful of 
ground oak-bark ought'to be thoroughly mixed with it. For medicine, 
those excellent tonic and alterative drinks may be thus prepared, and 
given daily : — 

Drink for Grease. 

Liquor arsenicalis One ounce. 

Tincture of the muriate of iron .... One ounce and a half. 

Porter or stout One quart. 

Mix, and give one pint night and morning. 

Chopped roots, speared wheat, hay tea, and a little cut grass, should 
it be in season, are all proper in this disease. At the same time, vralk- 



MALLENDERS AND SALLENDERS. 



249 



ing exercise is mucli to be commended. Motion quickens the circula- 
tion ; but in grease it seems, in a manner which is not understood, also 
to allay pain. A horse having grease will be led out of the stable 
limping lame ; but after an hour's exercise it may return walking firmly 
and almost soundly. After cleanliness, good food and medicine, nothing 
is so beneficial to grease as moderate exercise. 



MALLENDERS AND SALLENDERS. 

These names are to be traced to no derivation, but in their arbitrary 
signification they denote a certain condition of the parts situated on the 
points of principal flexion in either limb. Mallenders appear upon the 
back of the knee ; sallenders are located in front of the hock. Both, 
in the first place, are scurfy patches exhibiting a roughened state of hair 
and suggesting considerable irritability. Either, if neglected, will degen- 
erate into a troublesome sore from which a foul discharge will issue. 





MALLENDERS, OR A SCURFY PATCH AT TQE SALLENDERS, OR A SCURFT PATCH IN FRONT 

BACK OF THE KNEE. OP THE HOCK. 

With ordinary care they neither do much harm ; but are rather regarded 
as proofs of idleness and as eyesores, than as actual diseases, to which 
importance they now seldom attain. For their relief it is essential to 
pay scrupulous attention to cleanliness ; as, when the coat suffers from 
neglect, it is very probable the same cause may likewise influence the 
constitution. Therefore, always begin the treatment with the tonic 
alterative drinks described on the previous page; at the same time 
applying with friction a little of the annexed ointment thrice daily : — 
Ointment for Mallenders and Sallenders. 

Animal glycerin One ounce. 

Mercurial ointment Two drachms. 

Powdered camphor Two drachms. 

Spermaceti One ounce. 

Incorporate all thoroughly together, and apply as directed. 

When the scurf, through neglect, degenerates into a sore, treat after 



250 CRACKED HEELS. 

the mat net subsequently advised for cracked heels. But in every case 
of this kind always begin the treatment with a change of stable attend- 
ant ; for where certain diseases appear, these are conclusive proof that 
duty is neglected. No remonstrance, no chiding, can amend the habits 
of the groom, who has, from drink or other indulgence, lost pride in the 
stable over which he should reign supreme. 

CRACKED HEELS. 

This is, save where very wrong-headed measures are pursued, the affec- 
tion peculiar to the cold and wet months of the year. Even during the 
inclement weather of the summer, however, the horse may, if badly man- 
aged, exhibit this form of disease. Should the hair, which nature with 
kind intention placed upon the fetlock, be ruthlessly cut away, the animal 
is thereby rendered liable to cracked heels. The wet very rarely pene- 
trates that designed defense. When it does, the ample covering of hair 
falling over the skin prevents evaporation, and the 
moisture rather promotes warmth than causes any 
excess of cold. The dirt of the road always lodges 
upon the surface of the hair, and if the horsekeeper 
exercise only ordinary care it can never soil the flesh. 
The liability induced by removal of the natural 
covering exemplifies the folly of those practices 
which have lately become so very fashionable as at 
the present time to be almost universal. But there 
has always appeared to exist in the human mind a 
restless desire to improve the beauty of the horse. 
Now the tail has been docked ; then the ears have 
THE HEEL OP A HORSE IN A jj^ggj^ g^^ ^ gj^Qj.^ spacc pHor to thcsc amcud- 

CRACKED CONDITION. ^ ^ 

ments, the skin was tampered with to produce a star, 
as a white spot upon the forehead was termed. At the passing hour 
almost every man who owns a horse must have the body clipped or 
singed. The length of hair is given in this climate as a necessary pro- 
vision. Nature never forms anything without its use ; though man in 
his ignorance may not always be able to comprehend her intention. 
"Were finer coats desired, it would probably be wiser to obtain them by 
warming the stable, increasing the clothing, and avoiding those long 
stagnations during which the animal has to remain motionless before 
street doors. A long coat is a defense against a cold winter ; and unless 
man provides against the consequences of our climate, it is evidently 
flagrantly wrong to deprive a dumb creature of the protection which 
nature has bestowed. 




CRACKED HEELS. 251 

Shortening the coat, if anywhere justifiable, is certainly most pardon- 
able among hunters. Animals used for this purpose always have, or 
should have, plenty of attendance ; these creatures also are mostly re- 
quired during the autumn and early winter. Removing the coat cer 
tainly does stimulate the body. The horse assuredly is capable of greater 
exertion immediately after the deprivation. At the same time, however, 
a greater susceptibility to disease is engendered, and often the deprived 
animal falls a victim to man's fancy, notwithstanding all the care and 
attention which the hunting-stable can command. A burst and then a 
check, when a piercing wind blows from the northeast, invariably pro- 
duces sad effects among the horses, especially at the commencement of 
the season. A gentleman who prizes the animal he rides should take 
it to "the meet" undipped; and, perhaps, should the run be long, the 
quadruped may hold a better place at the death than horses adorned 
after the prevailing fashion. 

The folly of the custom is shown in the animals attached to London 
vehicles. These horses are mostly wanted for spring service. The 
stimulant of the autumn is purchased at the cost of debility during the 
spring. The coat is shed the later because of the previous deprivation. 
When the summer hair is growing, the creature presents a very uneven 
and ragged appearance in consequence of the points of the new and the 
roots of the old coat being of opposite colors. The gentleman who, 
therefore, has his nag and carriage horses shorn of their natural cover- 
ings at the time when hunters are thrown up, beholds the objects of his 
pride deficient in animation and beggarly in aspect, while the animal 
that has been allowed to wear its native garments dashes past him in 
all the briskness of the season and the smartness of new apparel. 

The question of clipping and of singeing is simply this. Do you 
require your servant's services all the year round, or do you want its 
utmost exertions for a comparatively short space immediately subsequent 
to the removal of the outer hair; and, at how great a hazard are you 
prepared to purchase your wish ? 

Were the legs of horses allowed to retain that adornment which 
nature gave, and were the parts not shorn of their shaggy beauty — 
were men not inclined to confound the difi"erent breeds of horses, and, 
because the thorough-bred has clean legs, to imagine the cart-horse can 
be artificially made to display members equally fine — were masters more 
resolute in resisting the selfish suggestions of lazy grooms, who love to 
have the bushy heels clipped — were the stable-keeper not afraid of doing 
his duty, but would go down upon his knees and rub the fetlocks dry, 
instead of drenching them with water, and then leaving them to chap in 
moisture and in cold, — were these things attended to, there is no reason 



252 CRACKED HEELS. 

why cracked heels should not speedily become a thing which has been, 
but no longer is. 

However, if animals are exposed throughout the wintry season, under 
the pretense of being placed in a straw-yard, the proprietor must expect 
to take the creatures up with some defect. The worst case of cracked 
heels the author ever looked upon, was produced after the last-men- 
tioned method ; the skin was much thickened and deeply marked by fis- 
sures. In places it had sloughed, and where the integument was absent 
fearfully deep ulceration was established. Fortunately, the absorbing 
process had reached none of those important structures which are situ- 
ated about the heel of the horse; and the animal, after lengthened 
treatment, was cured. 

For cracked heels, if bad, the animal must rest, at all events till the 
parts are improved. When slight, always wash them with tepid water 
and mild soap, upon the animal's return to the stable ; dry them thoroughly 
with a soft leather ; then damp them with the following : — 

Wash for Cracked Heels. 

Animal glycerin Half a pint. 

Chloride of zinc Two drachms. 

Strong solution of oak-bark One pint. 

Dissolve the zinc in water, then mix, and use thrice daily. 

Should sloughing and ulceration have commenced, that condition 
claims the first attention as being the most dangerous. 

Forbear all exercise while such a state exists. Throw up the animal. 
Allow it to rest in the stable. Give a few bran mashes or a little cut 
grass to open the bowels ; but do not take the horse out even for exer- 
cise while such an unhealthy action is in existence. Ulceration is too 
dangerous and morbid a process not to be treated with every consider- 
ation ; and it is far too irritable and painful a state not to necessitate 
perfect inaction for its relief. Apply the following to the heels : — 

Wash for Ulcerated Cracked Heels. 

Animal glycerin or phosphoric acid Two ounces. 

Permanganate of potash or creosote .... Half an ounce. 

Water Three ounces. 

Mix, and apply six times daily. 

Upon the ulceration being arrested, the last prescription may be dis- 
carded, and the former recipe resorted to ; with these, however, it is 
always well to attend to the constitution. A drink, each day, composed 
of liquor arsenicalis, half an ounce ; tincture of the muriate of iron, one 
ounce; water, half a pint, should be given every night. This compo> 
sition has been often recommended, but the author knows of none which 



CRACKED HEELS. 253 

is more beneficially tonic to the general system, and which, at the same 
time, acts so directly upon the skin. 

Stablemen are fond of urging various excuses to hide their disincli- 
nation for exertion. Thus it is common for such people to assert that 
the horse's heels cracked while the animal was out on a cold, a wet, or 
a windy day : this is nonsense. Stablemen, of course, do not desire the 
creatures which they look after to be exposed to that soil which it is 
their duty to remove ; but nature, that ordained the climate, formed the 
animal to endure it. 

Were not the heels clipped, nothing short of extreme stable neglect 
could occasion those parts to crack. If the hair is removed, nothing but 
excessive good fortune will prevent this affection. The groom in the 
last case is not to blame, should the heels become sore. However, the 
Aest method of avoiding this affection, where the hair is cut short, 
experience has proved to be the following : Upon return to the stable, 
wash the feet scrupulously clean with cold water ; then dry them thor- 
oughly. Use several cloths to effect the latter purpose, and do not 
relinquish the object while the slightest moisture remains ; nor cease to 
rub them until the parts are in a glow. Subsequently, smear over the 
heels a little glycerin ; but even this will not in every instance prevent 
the affection. No care can render safe that which human folly has ex- 
posed. 



CHAPTER XI. 

SPECIFIC DISEASES — THEIR VARIETIES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 



BROKEN WIND. 

Broken wind in the horse approaches very nearly to dry asthma in 
the human being. Man, however, can suit his work to his capabilities ; 
but all horses have only one employment, which, to be sure, may differ 




CONVULSIVE SPASM, INDUCED BY FATIGUE, IN A BROKEN-WINDED HORSE. 

in its intensity ; still, the most afflicted animal always has to perform the 
severest kind of draught. Let any person propose that individuals 
having dry asthma should pull loaded trucks, to earn their bread or to 
purchase a right to live ; the cruelty of such a proposition would be 
apparent to the dullest sense. Yet is it the horse's doom that, no matter 
with what disease it may be afflicted, the animal must work or die. Old 
or sick, weak or disabled, still the body's toil must earn the creature's 
food and the master's profit. Spasm or agony can excuse no pause ; let 
the sufferer even slacken the space sufficiently to mitigate in some degree 
the pangs it endures, and the long whip, aided by the harsh voice of the 
driver, will urge the flagging cripple onward. The horse has no words 
to plead with ; the signs of its distress are not understood ; the law 
(254) 



BROKEN WIND. 255 

which assumes to protect it is a delusion ; the animal is given up, help- 
less, frieudless, and unpitied, to the almost unrestrained barbarity of its 
master. It is born doomed to live in solitude, to wear its life out under 
the goad, and to yield up existence in a knacker's yard. 

" Broken wind " is a sad affliction ; it is the more sad because no men 
but the very careless or the very poor will keep an animal thus diseased. 
The author has known it to be a frequent reason given by the better 
class of horse proprietors for having the life destroyed ; which decision 
may have been quickened by the fact that the horse is generally old 
before this disease appears. In the knowledge of the writer there is 
no recorded instance of a colt having "broken wind." The malady is 
usually witnessed after the adult age has been attained, or during the 
latter period of life, whether the affection has been naturally induced or 
aggravated by the cruelty of man. 

It is said to have been produced suddenly ; thus a man has been 
reported to have ridden an untrained horse after the hounds, and so have 
provoked the disorder. Another is asserted to have galloped a nag with 
a stomach loaded either with food or water, and thus to have broken the 
wind. Doubtless the seeds of the disorder may by either process have 
been sown ; but that the disease was fully developed after either incident, 
is more than doubtful. 

The seat of this affliction is not confined to any one organ ; its ravage 
is universal. No part escapes ; that the entire animal economy can 
change all at once, like a trick in a Christmas pantomime, is a circum- 
stance which has yet to be established. The malady is most general 
among the agricultural districts ; the farmer's poor team, in many parts 
of England, seldom tastes much of that which can be taken to market. 
Cut grass constitutes its chief summer food; the coat is rarely groomed ; 
the stable often left open, and only cleaned when manure is wanted. 
During the winter months the animals have to luxuriate in the straw- 
yard ; the body's abuse, in such horses, may readily lead to the body's 
degeneration. Green-meat will not support the strength, though upon 
it the life may be sustained. The occupiers of the soil would find it to 
their account, could the class be brought to bestow a little more atten- 
tion upon their living property. The yeurs of labor would be prolonged, 
and the activity of the laborer be quickened ; fewer horses need then be 
kept, and the anxieties of the farmer would be lightened. Agricultural 
teams would not then be encountered slowly creeping along the high- 
way, and sleeping as they journeyed. Care naturally begets pride, and 
worth generally resides where pride is exhibited. Increased value would 
reward the farmer, whose animals would not then so often present the 
spectacle of horses doing slow work, being touched in the wind. 



256 BROKEN WIND. 

Broken wind is evidently a disorder of slow and of long growth ; any 
abuse may lay the foundation of such an affliction. Where abuse of life 
is possible, there folly is too often habitual ; thus repetition may hasten 
the development of broken wind, but no one act could provoke so 
lamentable a consequence. 

There is some dispute whether broken wind originates in the stom- 
ach or in the lungs. The mass of evidence would favor the opinion that 
originally it was a disease of the digestive organs ; but, as the disorder 
proceeds, all parts of the body appear to be involved. 

The symptoms of broken wind are a short, dry cough, which is 
described as "hacking," and which may be readily imitated by any 
person making a coughing noise while he withholds from enlarging the 
mouth, moving the lips, or employing the tongue, but at the same time 
endeavoring to pronounce the word "hack." 

The cough arises from irritability of the larynx, the mucous membrane 
of which is directly continuous with that proper to the lungs, and is 
joined to that of the stomach, any disease of which organ is frequently 
accompanied by cough. 

The appetite is ravenously and unscrupulously morbid ; the thirst is 
insatiable ; the flatus is most abundant ; the dung is but half digested ; 
the abdomen is pendulous ; the coat is ragged, and the general aspect 
is dejected. 

The leading symptom, or that which is looked for as indicative of 
broken wind, is found in the breathing. Respiration is accomplished by 
a triple effort : inhalation is quick and single, expiration is slow and 
double. The air is drawn upon the lungs as by a gasp. This being 
quickly accomplished, the ribs commence to expel the vapor, and move 
laboriously to their utmost extent without being able to effect the pur- 
pose. The movement of the chest and the inhalation are counted as 
two efforts. Then ensues the third. The abdomen begins to rise, with 
an evident desire to aid in emptying the lungs by driving forward the 
diaphragm, and thereby diminishing the capacity of the thorax. These 
two last efforts are comparatively laborious ; but the double effort is only 
partially completed before a sense of suffocation forces the animal to 
gasp once more for breath. 

There certainly are several circumstances which favor the opinion that 
broken wind is a disease of the digestive organs. In the first place, the 
great majority of broken-winded horses are to be found in those stables 
where the animals are badly fed ; moreover, it is no unusual thing for a 
gentleman to turn his nag out to grass, or into the straw-yard, and to 
take it up broken winded. Then, again, low dealers, who frequent fairs 
and public houses, have a method of what they term " setting broken 



BROKEN WIND. 251 

wind ; " this consists in pouring into the stomach various substances 
which cause the indicative symptom of the disease to be for a time con- 
cealed. Grease, tar, shot, and many filths are used for this purpose — 
anything which seems to induce nausea appears capable of producing 
such an effect. These things may conceal, but they cannot destroy, the 
characteristic cough ; a copious draught of cold water, by refreshing 
the stomach, will induce the restoration of all those signs natural to the 
disorder. 

Formerly there was very generally accepted a supposed cure for 
broken wind. The flatus is one of the most marked and troublesome 
symptoms of the disease ; that, when coaches had possession of the 
roads, rendered a broken-winded animal unsuited to run in such vehicles. 
To master the objection, and also, by relieving the intestines, to enable 
the broken-winded horse to live through the pace, a hole was bored into 
the rectum from without by means of a heated iron ; into this hole a leaden 
tube was inserted, and by that the flatus found egress without the outside 
passenger being unpleasantly aware of its perpetual escape. 

For broken wind, prevention is far more easy than cure ; in fact, 
the utmost which science can at present accomplish is to relieve the dis- 
tress. To effect this, water should be given only at stated times, and 
never immediately before work. Four half pails may be allowed each 
four and twenty hours ; one the first thing in the morning, another the 
last thing at night, and the other two at convenient times during the 
day. Into every drink of water it is likewise well to mingle half an 
ounce of dilute phosphoric acid, or half a drachm of dilute sulphuric 
acid. 

Besides this allow oats and beans, five feeds each day, with only five 
pounds of hay ; two pounds in the morning, when being dressed, and the 
remainder in the rack at night. Crush the oats and beans; thoroughly 
damp all the food before it is presented to the horse, and also scald the 
corn. 

Remove all bed by day, and muzzle when littered down for the night. 
Place a lump of rock-salt at one end of the manger, and at the other 
put a block of chalk. 

Such is the little science can propose for the alleviation of an incapaci- 
tating disorder. All other recommendations rather concern the owner 
than the stable. A horse thus afflicted should never be pushed hard or 
called upon for any extraordinary exertion. Fatigue, when severe, 
is apt to provoke alarming spasm ; a spectacle which the author once 
witnessed, of an animal which had journeyed far, pulling a heavy load, 
is represented at the head of this article. The horse had only paused 
while the carter took his beer, and had received nothing but hay upon 

n 



258 



BROKEN WIND. 



the road. It bad traveled all night, and it was still in the chains when 
the writer beheld it on the afternoon of the succeeding day. 

After death, the body which has suffered from the disease declares the 
ravage of the malady. The lungs are larger than usual, and always 
pallid ; small bladders containing gas are upon their surface, and when 
taken from their cavity the organs do not collapse as do the healthy 
lungs, nor can the air by compression be entirely driven forth. The 
hand being forced upon the surface elicits crepitation, or provokes a 
crackling sound, induced by the vapor passing out of one cell into 
another; for broken wind causes the terminations of the bronchial 
tubes to give way or to freely communicate one with another. Now, it 
is within these air-cells that the blood absorbs the oxygen from the 
inhaled atmosphere, and purifies itself by yielding up carbonic acid. 
How much must the destruction of their integrity, therefore, affect the 
entire body ! Impure blood cannot nourish a healthy life ; and the 
reader, after the above explanation, will easily account for the ragged 
and dejected aspect of the horse with broken wind. 

The diaphragm is also disintegrated ; the fibers of its tendinous por- 
tion are separated. The stomach is distended and thin ; the bowels are 
enlarged and blown out with gas; the muscle of the anus is flaccid; the 
visible mucous membranes are of an unhealthy tint ; the lining of the 
windpipe and the bronchial tubes is greatly thickened ; the muscles are 
soft and deficient in color; and, where fat should have been, is only 
found a gelatinous fluid. 

Having related the living and the morbid changes which characterize 
the malady, it remains now to inform the reader how so terrible a scourge 

may be avoided. The horse is so valuable a 
helpmate that it merits, for its own sake, 
man's greatest care. Never, for any reason, 
therefore, drive the animal from the shelter 
of the stable to the exposure of the field; 
never turn the steed which has thriven upon 
prepared food to the starvation of a "run 
at grass," or rankness of the "straw-yard." 
Never, for cheapness, buy damaged proven- 
der; never load a famishing stomach; be 
generous in all provision for those creatures 
which devote their lives to your service. 
Never, where such a thin^ is possible, per- 
mit the groom to ride or exercise the nag out of your sight. Be very 
attentive that the times of watering are rigidly observed. Never suffer 
an animal to quit the stable soon after it has drank or eaten. Be very 




HOWTG HEAR THE SOUND MADE 'WITHIN 
THE HORSE'S VTINDPIPE. 



MELANOSIS. 259 

attentive to all coughs; accustom yourself to the sound of the healthy 
horse's windpipe, that when the slightest change of noise indicates the 
smallest change of structure, you may be prepared to recognize and to 
meet the enemy before disease has had time to fix upon the membrane. 

Having laid down the above rules, it may, to the ignorant, appear 
that every possible movement of the proprietor has been interfered with ; 
that, in fact, the horse owner has been left no freedom of action. To 
the informed, however, it will seem that nothing more than every gentle- 
man should observe has been proposed ; and the horseman will smile 
when he learns that by such trivial matters can so heavy an affliction as 
broken wind be avoided. 



MELANOSIS. 

A quantity of black deposit, accumulated in large quantities upon 
certain parts of the frame, and contained within an 
increased amount of cellular tissue, constitutes this 
disease. At an early period swellings may be 
detected externally; they may be as small as a 
millet-seed, or as large round as a plate. These 
may remain dormant for years, or, if cut into before 
they start into activity, are almost white, and very 
glistening in parts, much resembling cartilage. ^ melanotic tumor divided, 

a O r ' O O SHOWING THE IMTERIOR IN THE 

As time progresses, however, all the white disap- middle staqb of develop- 
pears, and its place is filled by a material not unlike 
lamp-black when thoroughly incorporated with water. These growths 
increase both in number and in size. Should one be cut into after it is 





THE SPLEEN OP A HORSE LOASBD WITH MEJ.ANOTIO TUMORS. THE BLACK SPOT TOWARD THE BIOHT HAND REPRE- 
SENTS ONE OF THE OB0WIH3 DIVIDED. 

fully matured, an inky fluid follows the knife. The disease is not con- 
fined simply to external tumors ; the coverings to nerves, the coats of 
arteries, and the recesses of the closest bones, are each found to bear 
minute evidences of a melanotic tendency. The deposit, however, seems 
principally to attack the internal organs. The interior of the sheath is 
not unfrequently clogged to that degree which forbids the passage of the 



260 



MELANOSIS. 



natural emission ; while the preceding engraving of a loaded spleen by 
no means represents an extreme case, 

A tumor should be admirably placed for operation, and its removal 
should be almost imperative, before the surgeon presumes to meddle 
with it. As a general rule, the best treatment for melanosis is to let 
it alone. Our present knowledge points to no medicine which can pre- 
vent or disperse such deposits, and the tumors appear to resent the 
slightest interference. The integrity of one swelling being violated 
seems to start off the disease with enraged intensity. If let alone, 
melanosis may exist for years, and cause little inconvenience to the 
body in which it resides. The horse is, by its daily service, exposed to 
various accidents. The large majority of the tribe perish before their 
youth has passed. The animal may, therefore, cease to live by other 
causes than disease, or die before disease has become formidable. But 
irritate the system by employment of the knife, and a lamentable malady 
may speedily render the knacker's office an act of charity. 

Above all, let the master not permit any man to blister, seton, rowel, 
fire, stimulate, or slough out the tumor; such deeds are cruel folly. 
Bleeding is worse than useless. Purging weakens the body which dis- 
ease is sapping. All medicines used in ignorance are probable hazards. 
Let such things, therefore, be discarded ; but if something must be done, 
let the animal have daily an eight-ounce dose of any Wand vegetable 
oil. Some linseed may likewise be mingled with the corn, or a decoction, 
of the whole linseed may be presented as drink before the seeds them- 
selves are given with the oats. 

It is but natural to connect melanosis with the changed aspect of the 




THE COLORED HORSES -WHICH ALONE ARB EXPOSED TO MELANOSIS. TO THE LEFT IST'HE OLD HORSE, -WHICH 
HAS BEEN gray; TO THE RIGHT IS THE TOCNQ ANIMAL, WHICH -WILL -WITH AGE BECOME WHITE. 

skin. A young gray horse seems to be exempt ; but as the dark hairs 
disappear from the coat, and the animal with age turns white, a black 



MELANOSIS. 2G1 

deposit accumulates upon various parts of the body. Creatures of other 
colors are not liable to so terrible a scourge ; and seeing that the disease 
is in some manner connected with a change in the skin, probably some 
attention to the integumental covering might be of service. 

All use of the curry-comb should be forbidden. The dressing should 
be long continued, only with the brush ; but it cannot, at the same time, 
be too gentle. Twice a week the body should be anointed with the 
following : — 

Animal glycerin One part. 

Rose-water Two parts. 

Mix. 

A brush should be moistened with the liquid, and the hair of the body 
should be rendered thoroughly damp, not wet, with the fluid. The after- 
dressing should consist in the long employment of the brush, so as to 
carry the glycerin from the hair and to lodge it upon the cuticle. 

Glycerin has the peculiar property of destroying scurf; therefore, if 
glycerin be used, the curry-comb may be dispensed with. It likewise 
renders soft and moist the cuticle, which invariably becomes harsh and 
dry with age. Acting thus, it will, in the human subject, so far restore 
the color to the hair as to conceal the presence of the gray or white ones 
common to advancing years. The effect on one animal argues favorably 
for its action in another direction. 

A dappled gray is perhaps the most beautiful covering in which boun- 
teous nature could invest a graceful body. Creatures so clothed are 
usually the favorites of their owners, as well as generally the pets of the 
stable. Therefore the author may assert there are more than a few 
horse proprietors who would not bestow a thought upon any expense 
which could secure to them the services of their much-prized steeds. 

When melanosis threatens, a tumor no larger than an egg generally 
appears upon some part of the body. It may show on any locality. It 
has no fixed abode. It is hard to the touch, and apparently devoid of 
sensibility. In this state the disease may remain for one, or it may 
continue stationary for six, years. When the next and the more active 
stage commences, the tumor suddenly enlarges. It becomes soft in 
places, and will fluctuate under the pressure of the fingers. The horse, 
at the same time, grows slothful. The tumor, which previously seemed 
in no way to affect the animal, by its enlargement marks the departure 
of all spirit. This sluggishness rapidly increases till the poorest owner 
becomes dissatisfied with the perpetual use of the goad. 

The body, when opened, generally displays a condition which, from 
the outward signs, was far from expected. The internal organs are 
covered with tumors. Numberless morbid growths, of various dimen- 




2G2 T*Ai'ER FARCY. 

sions and in every stage of development, crowd upon every part. These 

readily account for that disinclination to move which characterized the 

latter days of existence. 

There is one test for melanosis which does not invariably meet with 

a response, but which, when successful, seldom deceives. This is a pim- 
ple near to the root of the dock ; it is very 
rarely of magnitude ; there may only be one or 
there may be several, and the largest may not 
exceed the dimensions of half a pea. When, 
however, such an indication can be detected 
upon a gray horse which is turning white, the 
evidence is almost conclusive. The author does 
not know an instance, where it has suggested 
the presence of melanosis, that the post-mortem 

THE SIGN THAT TELLS OP THE . . , T T l 

EXISTENCE OF MELANOSIS. examinatiou has contradicted the indication. 

With regard to the ultimate termination of 
this disorder, the author has no experience. Horses thus affected are 
always slaughtered when the second stage interferes with their utility ; 
but, judging from the similarity of the disease in man and in the animal, 
it is conjectured the last stage in each would be alike. 

WATER FARCY. 

Water farcy, like so many equine disorders, is the offspring of. weak- 
ness. Man, having a servant willing to work and incapable of complain- 
ing, too often proportions the toil only to the master's desire or the 
master's convenience. Many horses — which perform slow labor — are in 
harness eighteen hours out of the four and twenty ; their rest is while 
the carter drinks, eats, and sleeps. 'No, not even can they enjoy such 
brief respite as is afforded by avarice to the laboring fellow-being ; often 
is one of the drivers seen soundly sleeping on the top of the load which 
the stiff and jaded animals are compelled to draw. Thus the horse's 
toil is almost constant ; wagoners are well aware that many horses sleep 
while in the shafts or in the chains. Overcome by fatigue, the animals 
doze, but continue to walk and to pull the burden onward. Who, know- 
ing such a fact, can wonder that a living frame thus abused should often 
bow beneath its yoke, and, through death, set torture at defiance ? 

Water farcy is a warning which nature gives to human selfishness ; 
it is, when rightly viewed, an intimation that, if the owner does not use 
the life intrusted to him more gently, the common parent will speedily 
take the sufferer to its rest. The complaint proceeds from debility ; 
should the cause of exhaustion be continued, the affection soon changes 



WATER FARCY. 



263 



its character. Water farcy is dropsy of one hind leg ; very rarely does 
the malady involve two members. Such is the form of the admonition; 
but the labor undiminished, or the dropsy removed by means of coarse 
and drastic medicines, the local affection speedily becomes a constitu- 
tional disorder ; and true farcy releases an ill-used slave from custody 
of the tyrant who has abused his power. 

Horses that are liable to water farcy are mostly of the heavy breed, 
or are animals which perform slow work. It is usual, on a Saturday 
night, for the driver to throw much provender before such creatures, and 
then to lock the stable door, satisfied he has discharged his duty. 

Often he does not visit them on the Sunday ; the creatures pass " the 
best of all the seven" confined in a close atmosphere, and eating food 
which they have contaminated by breathing upon. The man observes 
the day of rest himself, and takes his ease ; for the " brutes" he has 
heaped up rack and man- 
ger — so they have to eat ; 
what more can dumb an- 
imals require ? Upon 
opening the door on Mon- 
day morning, he may see 
one horse with a swollen 
leg. The drudge general- 
ly, not invariably, is lame, 
and holds the enlarged 
member in the air ; the 
coat stares ; the aspect is 
dull ; and much of the 
abundance which was 

placed before the animal remains untouched. The poor creature was 
too tired and in too much pain to eat ; but agony has created a con- 
suming thirst, and it will drink the foulest water. 

The horse doctor is sent for. In the opinions of veterinary surgeons 
there are two kinds of water farcy — one springs from debility, the other 
is accompanied with irritable symptoms. It, however, requires no vast 
knowledge of physiology to recognize debility and irritability as the chil- 
dren of one parent ; indeed, most veterinarians admit the sameness in 
practice, however much they may dispute it in theory. They bleed, purge, 
and send in half a dozen diuretic balls, when, the swelling having been 
removed by such coarse measures, the horse, still further weakened, is 
once more put to its work. 

Let every man who keeps cart-horses view a case of water farcy as a 
caution, proceeding direct from nature, that the management of his stable 




THE CABTEE'S first APPEARANCE IN THE STABLE ON A 
MONDAY MORNING. 



264 WATER FARCY. 

requires immediate change. Tlie work is too heavy; pecuniary loss will 
soon follow, if the system be not amended ; true .is it, the writer has 
known men rated " good " in the world's report, and who were very 
"professing Christians" in their own esteem; he has known these men 
never to give more than ten pounds for a horse, and, at the time of pur- 
chase, the premeditated sin was to work out the life over which money 
had established authority. It is the most offensive feature of what is 
termed modern civilization that, rarely as individuals, never as a society, 
do mankind entertain the slightest sympathy for the animals by which 
they are surrounded. Most men are only eager for the services of the 
horse; they do not regard its ailments with the smallest feeling; they 
seek a veterinary surgeon merely to restore their animal to labor, and 
care only for a fellow-creature's sufferings as these disable it from toil- 
ing for their profit. 

Water farcy is, however, an admonition which all men should under- 
stand ; the horse, when thus attacked, announces that farcy hovers over 
the stable. Let the work of the team be made less prolonged and less 
exhausting; let the provender be improved. Green food is no sufficient 
sustenance for a working horse ; it may fill the stomach, but it brings 
down the belly, and it impoverishes the blood. The team may not travel 
fast, but they are out for many hours ; generally they cover more ground 
than horses of a quicker pace ; they also pull weights before which none 
but a cart-house would be harnessed. On the appearance of water farcy, 
therefore, let the distances be shortened and the loads lightened. 

Then, for remedial measures, let the diet be nourishing, the bed cleanly, 
the house drained and airy. As for exercise, let the horse, so soon as it 
can bear the motion, be gently led out morning, noon, and night, for 
one hour each time. Do not turn the creature from the stable to the 
field. Grass may be the cheapest food ; but it never yet did a domesti- 
cated animal good "to blow itself out" upon such a diet. 

As for medicine, when the limb can bear friction, let it be well and 
often hand-rubbed ; the oftener and the longer the better. Every morn- 
ing saturate it with pails of cold water; wipe it dry immediately,. and 
then set to work hand-rubbing the leg. This is all that is absolutely 
necessary, save that if the lameness continues longer than the first day, 
a few punctures may be made through the skin. These should be equally 
distributed, each being about three-eighths of an inch deep, and one 
inch long, so as to divide the skin but not to wound the muscles beneath. 
Through these incisions the fluid, by which the limb is distended, will 
escape. As for physic, the following ball should be given every morn- 
ing, if the proprietor can think a sick servant merits such trouble and 
expense : — 



PURPURA HEMORRHAGICA. 265 

Iodide of iron One drachm. 

Powdered cantharides Two grains. 

Powdered arsenic One grain. 

Cayenne pepper One scruple. 

Sulphate of iron One drachm. 

Treacle and linseed meal A sufiQciency. 

Make into a ball, and give. 

This should be made as it is wanted, for, by keeping, the ingredients 
become hard, and are apt, when given in that state, to cause injury to 
the animal. 

By such slight and simple means, water farcy has generally been re- 
moved ; but no delay should occur in having recourse to them, as some 
cases will set all endeavors at defiance, and delay is always dangerous 
where health is concerned. A few days of neglect will often permit the 
limb to become organized. It ceases to pit on pressure. Fibrin has 
been effused under the skin. The swollen leg is even harder than is the 
healthy member. Then the horse, should it escape true farcy, will carry 
about an enlarged member for the duration of its remaining life. 

PURPURA HEMORRHAGICA. 

This disease formerly was unknown, though at present it appears to 
be rather common. What is there can shut up the sight of man. like 
ignorance ? It is but fair to conclude that purpura was as frequent in 
past times as it now is ; yet men, having professional zeal to quicken their 
recognitions, could not read what was before their eyes, because they 
had not been tutored to know and to understand it. It was so with our 
forefathers, and, we may not deny, it is so with the 
existing generation. Science begets an infatua- 
tion. Men, because they have learned much, imagine 
nature has no more lessons to enforce. At all 
events, they act as though such were their convic- 
tions ; else why is it that genius every now and then 
startles pedantry, by widening the sphere of human 
perceptions? 

The cause of this terrible affliction is a mystery. 
The horse has worked, fed, and looked well, when a horse's head deformed 
locked up for the night. The next day the animal is 
discovered breathing with difficulty, and having several parts of the body 
greatly enlarged. The creature appears, by the disorder, to be rendered 
stupid rather than insensible. It stands erect, but seems not to be 
acutely conscious of its condition. Not only are several portions of the 
horse's frame swollen beyond all recognition, but through the skin there 




266 PURPURA HEMORRHAGICA. 

issues streams of serum fearfully variegated by the admixture of blood. 
The openings to the nostrils and the lips soon enlarge ; then the tongue 
likewise increases in size, a portion of it hanging out of the mouth. 
The appetite is never entirely lost, though the affliction prevents deglu- 
tition. In this lamentable state the wretched horse may continue for 
several days, or the disorder may reach its termination in a few hours. 

As the horse begins to recover, extensive sloughs occur, generally in 
those parts which have been much enlarged. 

Recovery appears to restore the consciousness in some degree, and 
the life is prolonged at the expense of much suffering. The appetite 
remains. The power to eat is, nevertheless, slowly attained. The desire 
for fluids, however, appears to exist throughout the attack, and should 
be taken advantage of to nourish the patient, by presenting thin gruel in 
the place of water. 

Purpura hemorrliagica is universal congestion. If the body of an 
animal which has succumbed to this disease be examined, the cellular 
tissue will be found distended with serum and with blood of a dark 
venous character. In this case, therefore, a blood-letting judiciously 
managed may be beneficial. No pulse can be felt, nor is any needed to 
guide the surgeon. So soon as the heaviness is ameliorated, the can is 
to be withdrawn, and the orifice is to be pinned up. The smaller the 
quantity taken the better, as the patient has no strength to spare. 
Should the congestion return, a second venesection may be imperative 
to relieve the vessels ; such a resort, however, should be practiced only 
upon the conviction of its absolute necessity. 

Mr. Gowing, of Camden Town, in two cases reported in "Blain's 
Veterinary Art," gave turpentine with success. Turpentine is, however, 
a potent diuretic to the horse, and therefore, the writer thinks, not the 
best diffusible stimulant in these cases. Preference would, by him, be 
given to sulphuric ether or to chloroform. Half an ounce of the last, 
blended with a pint of linseed oil, should be given in the earliest stage. 
Half an hour having elapsed, the dose may be repeated. No amend- 
ment being witnessed, discard the chloroform and administer two ounces 
of sulphuric ether in one pint of cold water. After a little space, as in 
the previous instance, more diluted ether may be administered, though 
it will seldom be required. 

It is imperative to be speedy in adopting the measures intended to 
relieve purpura; for the disease rapidly attains its termination. For 
that reason, if the breathing is distressed, as is pretty certain to be the 
case, at once perform tracheotomy. Impure oxygenation of the blood 
is one of the most active causes of congestion; indeed, that state 
appears only possible during impeded respiration. 



STRANGLES. 267 

The tongue often becomes infiltrated, and, hanging out of the mouth, 
renders the appearance of the head most unsightly. It is, when thus 
enlarged, a fixture, and is in danger of being injured by the teeth. So 
soon, therefore, as the member is protruded, several free incisions should 
be made through its integument. The organ should then be manipu- 
lated, so as to cause the fluid to exude. These processes should again 
and again be had recourse to so often as they are required to return the 
tongue to the mouth. 

The sloughing of the skin is a serious matter. It is treated by the 
solution 01 the chloride of zinc — one grain to the ounce of water — 
applied by being squeezed from a sponge on to the denuded part. This 
lotion will not only promote healing, but it will also destroy the fetor 
which results from decomposition. 

After all, however, these cases are mostly very unsatisfactory. They 
would prove less so were tracheotomy more generally resorted to ; but, 
in some instances, the horse seems to be ren- 
dered stupid by the disease. Instead of court- 
ing man's assistance and yielding up itself to 
his will, it appears to resent every effort made 
for its relief, as though all it desired was per- 
mission to die in peace. The beautiful resig- 
nation and the pleading solicitude for human 
sympathy appear to be lost. The brain evi- 
dently is affected; and when it is known the 
purpura hemorrhagica consists in universal con- 
gestion, no wonder will be expressed that an 
organ so sympathetic as the brain is affected the mND leo op a horse endto- 

. INQ PURPURA HEMORRHAGICA. 

durmg this disease. 

The condition of the animal suffering from this terrible disorder is 
indeed dreadful. If the brain be oppressed, the body is deformed out 
of all recognition. The beauty of the animal is lost, and the carcass 
becomes so misshapen as to be commonly compared to a hippopotamus. 
The legs share with the trunk the general disorder; and from these, as 
from other parts, blood and serum will exude. 

STRANGLES. 

Strangles, in its effects upon the body of the horse, is similar to 
measles in the human being. Both are diseases peculiar to the young ; 
both sometimes occur after the attainment of maturity; and both are 
dangerous in proportion as their advent is delayed. Both, also, are 
attended with evil consequence if driven inward, or if any irregularity 
warps the even tenor of their course. 




268 STRANGLES. 

Here, however, the similarity ends. Strangles is developed as an 
abscess under the jaw; measles appears as a rash all over the body. 
Both, however, are eruptive, and both are cast outward at some expense 
to the system. 

Strangles is peculiarly the property of the rich man's horse. It is 
spoken of as relieving the body of some matter prejudicial to the after- 
health. The author has known several poor men's horses which never 
exhibited strangles. Those animals certainly seemed none the worse 
for escaping the disorder. Nevertheless, it may relieve the body of the 
high-bred and tenderly-nurtured animal of something which might prove 
injurious if retained, although every quadruped does not appear to need 
such a cleansing. And the man must have some extraordinary faculty 
who would enter a certain stable, and point out the creatures which had 
sufifered and which had escaped the strangles. Still, it may be, and 
probably is, an effort of nature to adapt the body to a sudden change of 
circumstances, though whether these circumstances are natural or induced 
remains to be proved. 

Highly-bred horses are cared for from the moment of their birth. Tip 
to a certain period — varying in different parts of the country and in 
different animals — the colt is allowed to roam the field. All at once, 
however, it is taken up, and its education commences. From the dew, 
and from the grass under its feet and within its mouth, the colt is sud- 
denly removed to dry food, and is imprisoned inside a hot and fetid 
stable. Nature rebels against such treatment. The strangles is the 
consequence, after which the poor captive becomes better adapted to its 
unnatural situation. 

Strangles is ushered in by slight general indisposition, which, how- 
ever, does not pass away. Sickness rather hovers over the colt than 

plumps directly upon it. The ani- 
mal is then, in stable phraseology, 
" breeding strangles." After a few 
days, a stiffness of the neck is con- 
spicuous ; subsequently an enlarge- 
ment can be perceived. It is, at 
first, very hard, hot, and tender. A 
discharge from the nose appears. 
The symptoms of general disease 
THE HEAD oE A HOESE ^TH STRANGLES. bccom^c aggravated. The throat is 

sore ; 'the breathing is oppressed ; 
the discharge is copious ; the coat stares ; the appetite is lost ; the 
creature stands, with eyes half closed, the picture of mute distress. 
At length the tumor softens. It becomes prominent at a particular 




STRANGLES. 269 

spot. Upon this place the surgeon makes an incision. A pint or more 
of pus escapes, and the animal quickly recovers. 

Such is the history of a case of strangles, as the disorder generallj' 
develops itself. Of course it will vary in degree, though in every instance 
a sufficient similarity will be apparent to guide the student. 

With regard to treatment : never purge or bleed a colt when it ex- 
hibits a dubious sickness. It may be "breeding strangles," and the 
strength then will be needed to cast off the disease. Give all the nour- 
ishment the animal can imbibe. If food should be rejected, whitened 
water, or boiling water into which some flour has been stirred, or thin 
gruel, is useful for that purpose. A little green-meat is generally rel- 
ished. But, if the colt is not frightened at the approach of a stranger, 
the food should be offered, little at a time, by the hand — not forked into 
the rack or cast upon the ground, for the animal to breathe upon and 
then turn from with disgust. Corn, crushed and scalded, maybe allowed, 
if it can be eaten. ^NTo grooming must annoy the feverish body ; the 
clothing must be light ; the bed should be ample, and scrupulously clean : 
the loose box ought to be large, perfectly well drained, with every door 
and window open during the day, and only partly closed at night. 

Some persons blister the abscess, and then apply a poultice over the 
blistered part : to this practice the author objects. In the first place, 
sufficient friction cannot be employed to insure the effects of a blister. 
In the second place, a blister is said to be endowed with the properties 
of bringing forward or of dispersing a tumor. In strangles, one of these 
processes alone is desirable, the dispersion being much to be dreaded. 
In the third place, though oil and water are in their natures antagonistic, 
yet water will creep through a coating of oil, and warm water, especially, 
thickens the cuticle. This action may possibly prevent the vesicatory 
from reaching the cutis, should the emollient be applied immediately 
after the blister. In the last place, the weight of the poultice is likely 
to stretch the cloth in which it is applied ; when, being removed from the 
skin, the cold air of course finds its way between- the poultice and the 
tumor. Cold is not desirable where we seek to promote suppuration ; 
but cold is increased by damping a surface, and allowing it to be swept 
by a current of air. Evaporation then takes place, and the warmth is 
decreased by many degrees. 

The writer prefers gently stimulating with the following mixture : — 

Spirits of turpentine Two parts. 

Laudanum One part. 

Spirits of camphor One part. 

This may be applied, by means of what cooks term a " paste brush," 




270 STRANGLES. 

morning, noon, and night, until soreness is produced. It will, at first, 
seem cool, and be grateful to the part. After every application, have 

ready three pieces of flannel — no 
house-cloth, no open and thin stuff, 
which some economical housewives 
presume to think is good enough 
for the stable, but soft, thick, and 
warm, new flannel, such as any feel- 
ing person would bind around a 
sore and inflamed part. Put these 
over the embrocation, and bind all 

A HOESE WITH STRANGLES WEARING- AN EIGHT- ^^ ^^^h a flaUncl Cight-tailcd baud- 

TAiLED BANDAGE. ^gc. Au cight-tailcd bandage is 

simply a long piece of flannel having 
three slits at either end. Its use, and the manner of applying it, is 
shown in the above illustration. 

When the tumor points, the surgeon takes with him two assistants 
into the box where the horse is confined. One proceeds to apply the 
twitch ; this twitch is an instrument of torture — it is a strong stick, 
having a short loop of cord at one end. The sensitive upper lip of the 
horse is grasped by the assistant's left hand, which has previously been 
thrust through the loop of the twitch. The loop is next slid over the 
left hand, and with the right hand placed upon the lip, while the fellow- 
assistant, by twisting the stick round and round, tightens, and thus pinches 
into a ball this most sensitive lump of imprisoned flesh ; for in the upper 
lip of the horse resides the sense of touch — anatomy shows us it is more 
largely supplied with nerves than any other part in the body. 

The attendant, who had first put on the twitch, gives the stick to his 
companion, and lifts up one of the animal's legs. The horse, with its 
attention engrossed by the agony of its lip, is rendered disinclined to 
motion, and is comparatively powerless while standing on three legs. 
The surgeon then takes an abscess knife, not a lancet, which is a coarse 
and clumsy instrument — the lancet simply punctures, whereas in an 
abscess more is desirable. A free opening is always wished for ; and 
where living flesh is to be operated upon, it is, for very many reasons, 
preferable to do all the cutting at once. The knife is held lightly in the 
hand, with the thumb resting on the back of the blade. The horse, 
when it feels the incision, is apt, spite of the twitch, to drag suddenly 
backward. Thus it pulls against the back of the knife, and no injury 
can occur ; whereas, with a double-edged lancet, an ugly and a danger- 
ous wound has, by the motion of the animal, been inflicted. The thumb, 
in this situation, also serves another purpose. It allows only so much 



STRANGLES. 



2n 



of the blade to enter the abscess as is above the nail of the member — 
this is usually about three-quarters of an inch. The thickness of the 
skin, increased by disease, requires so much ; and if not, the pus, accu- 
mulated beneath the skin, will save the more important parts from being 
injured. 

The leg being raised and the head guided upward by the elevation of 
the twitch, the operator approaches the horse. He looks well at the 




OPENING THE ABSCESS OF STRANGLES. 



part he has to open, and mentally determines where to make his incision. 
He also ascertains the extent of the tumor. This is necessary; for if 
the swelling be to one side, a single incision will be sufficient ; but if 
this extend (as is usually the case) from right to left, two incisions are 
requisite. In either case the surgeon seizes the left rein with the left 
hand, and, placing his right hand in a proper position, by a short and 
simple motion of the wrist the knife is driven through the skin. 

The horse, during every operation, is usually blinded. Darkness 
invariably increases terror, and is unnecessary, since the horse cannot 
see what is being done under its jaw ; nevertheless, the creature is obvi- 
ously amused by watching the people about it. From the behavior, 
we have no reason to imagine the animal draws any conclusions. To 
blind the horse is, therefore, to increase to fears of excessive timidity. 
It is easily accomplished. Double a handkerchief into close longitudinal 
folds ; then tie either end to the sides of the bridle, so that the handker- 
chief may rest upon the eyes, and the object is attained. 

Every case of strangles will not be settled so readily. Occasionally 
the soreness of the internal throat will cause much annoyance. The 
animal is continually gulping its saliva. "When it attempts to drink, 
the fluid flows back through the nostrils. The animal will not eat, and 
the strangles or tumor may threaten to be absorbed. In such cases the 



212 STRANGLES. 

food must be carefully prepared. No mashes, made by merely pouring 
hot water into a pailful of bran, stirring it round once or twice and 
splashing the mess into the manger, will now do. Even malt mashes 
will not answer the purpose. Good gruel must be carefully prepared 
and frequently changed. The drink must also be varied, so as to tempt 
the sick stomach, — as a general rule, equal parts of grits, (not oatmeal,) 
linseed meal, bean or pea flour, may constitute the ingredients. Let the 
drink be always just warm when placed before the animal. Sometimes 
clover-hay, or simple hay tea, may form the basis of the drink ; some- 
times one or other of the constituents may be withdrawn. Too much 
care cannot be taken of the horse at this period. Good nursing is now 
the most effectual, as well as the cheapest medicine ; and all warranted 
expense at this time is a saving in the end. The breathing also is fre- 
quently most acutely distressed. In severe cases the symptoms are" so 
alarming as to demand the immediate performance of tracheotomy. 
This the surgeon is forced to have recourse to, although at the time he 
knows it will only be temporarily required. When, though distressing, 
the disease is not of so fearful a character, relief may be sometimes 
obtained by mingling steam with the air which the animal inhales, and 
casting upon the source of vapor ten or fifteen drops of the etherial 
tincture of phosphorus. This last artifice may be renewed every quar- 
ter of an hour should it appear to afford even the slightest relief. 

Avoid physic as much as possible. In strangles, purge and kill is the 
rule. Open the bowels, if it be imperative, by green-meat ; if that should 
not answer, let them alone, however confined they may be. Let the fever 
rage, but do not potter with one drug and another "to cool" the body. 
Some horses suffer terribly when they have strangles. The reasons 
for such a difference have not hitherto been ascer- 
tained; but doubtless science will one day dis- 
cover them. In bad cases the tumor appears 
under the throat, but it is larger than usual, and 
longer in maturating than is customary. Tears, 
frequently mingled with pus, flow frona the eyes ; 
a copious discharge runs from the nose ; the pen- 
dulous lips are disfigured by long bands of thick 
saliva; the coat is dull, erect, and rusty; the 
heavy lids close the sight ; often the nostrils 
become dropsical; the breathing is fearful; the 
tumor presses against the larynx, and a roaring 
sound is audible at each inspiration. 

A BAD CASE OP STRANGLES. -r-i , i • , ■, ^ .^ 

For this case no more must be done than was 
directed for the milder form of the disease. The animal may be gently 




STRANGLES. ^^^ 

cleansed, but this office must be tenderly performed ; for tbe filth will 
do far less harm to the horse than the provocation of irritability. 
Gruel, repeatedly changed, should always be within easy reach of the 
mouth; the pail should be hung upon a hook, so that the head may 
not be necessarily raised to reach the nourishment. A little of the sed- 
iment, strained from the gruel, should be placed in the manger, as some 
quadrupeds will only eat ; others will only drink ; a third class will be 
content with such nourishment as they can suck up from the more solid 
form of slops ; a fourth may all but starve, yet no coaxing will induce 
the sufferers to look at aught but the dry, hard food, which they dare 
not swallow. Most, however, will feed on green-meat, and this should 
always be at hand. Should the animal become worse, tracheotomy may 
be necessitated. Then stout and ti'eacle should be liberally horned 
down — half a pound of treacle being mingled with the quart of stout, 
and the whole mixed with a quart of good thick gruel. However, give 
at one time only so much as can be taken without distress being occa- 
sioned. 

Such cases, bad as they may appear, are not to be despaired of; nor 
are the tumors, on any account, to be opened before they have thoroughly 
maturated. Hasty incisions may throw the abscesses back upon the 
system. When that is the case, real danger is provoked ; the horse sel- 
dom thrives afterward. 

In some instances the tumor will burst internally. It may find egress 
through the nostrils ; but if it burst into the large guttural pouches of 
the animal, the pus may be there imprisoned until it becomes inspissated, 
and, by the motion of the jaws, kneaded into numerous distinct masses, 
resembling small sea-side pebbles. Such has been witnessed, but should 
hardly now occur; since Professor Yarnell, of the Royal Veterinary 
College, has invented an instrument by means of which these cavities 
can be effectually injected, and even washed out. 

Besides those varieties already mentioned, there is yet another form 
of strangles : that is, where no tumor appears beneath the jaws, but 
several form on other parts of the body. The greatest number of 
abscesses the author has heard of, being developed on one body, is seven. 
They generally contained about a pint of pus; and, if the direction 
given for the treatment of strangles be observed, the animal will usually 
recover upon these being opened. 

The great danger of strangles is in the disease fixing upon any inter- 
nal organ; the horse is of no use afterward. It sinks from bad to 
worse, till it resembles the illustration appended to " Chronic Indiges- 
tion." The best thing which can happen in such a case is the death of 
the wretched creature. To prevent so lamentable a termination to a 

18 



2T4 GLANDERS. 

generally mild aflfection, nurse with every possible care, and begrudge no 
expense which can add to the comfort of the patient. 

GLANDERS. 

This is the most loathsome disease to which the horse is subject. It 
is provoked by stimulating food combined with exhausting labor. It 
was formerly very common in posting stables ; long stage teams were 
seldom free from it. The London omnibuses, by night, are said to drive 
glandered horses, and the proprietors of those vehicles are reported to 
keep glandered stables. 

In all of such cases the food is of the best and most stimulating 
description — twenty pounds of oats and beans with five pounds of hay, 
per day, are needed to keep a glandered horse in working condition. 
Gentlemen formerly used to fee the post-boy to "push along." We well 
remember the quivering forms of gasping flesh which were unharnessed 
whenever the old coach changed horses. 

Omnibuses are very heavy ; the constant stoppages make the draught 
still more severe. The animals which appear in front of these vehicles 
are small in size, rarely sixteen hands high, but the best and strongest 
their proprietors can afford. A little breed is desirable, as a coarse 
horse would lack the courage to take the collar and to persevere. The 
age of these horses is generally three years when first bought in. Some 
animals have worked through many seasons, but such instances are ex- 
ceptions. Numbers annually yield to the drag upon the constitution. 
These are sold for what they will fetch. But several, either from weakness 
or some other cause which our science yet lacks perception to discover, 
annually become glandered. 

Youth and high feeding, conjoined with excessive labor and damp 
lodging, will certainly produce glanders. Age, starvation, and ceaseless 
toil generally induce farcy. The glanders and the farcy, however, are 
one and the same disease, modified by the cause which originates them. 
Glanders is the more vigorous form of the disorder ; farcy is the slow 
type, fastening upon general debility. 

These disorders have been the scourges of horse-flesh. They still are 
the inheritance which man's willing slave gains by service to a harsh and 
cruel master. Men, to their fellow-men, sometimes confess, without any 
sense of shame, that they buy cheap horses to work them up. It is, in 
some cases, esteemed more economical to exhaust the life than to pur- 
chase and to maintain that number of animals which would be equal to 
the labor. This horrible system is in daily operation in a country 
professing Christianity ! 



GLANDERS. 2T5 

Glanders is provoked by human depravity. Had people common 
feeling for the life over which they are given authority — would they only 
admit, in its largeness and its truth, that " the laborer is worthy of his 
hire" — the disease might, in one year, become a tradition. 

At present the affection exists as the dread of every horse proprietor. 
It is highly contagious — all owners of horses know this. The stable 
may be scrupulously clean, yet the poison may have been lodged there 
by the last inhabitant. It is not only contagious to horses, but it is 
equally dangerous to men. Three sad instances of this fact have come 
to the author's knowledge. Two respectable gentlemen, moving in good 
society, were each contaminated, and both pitiably perished of this terri- 
ble disease. They were no stable-helpers, moving and living among 
suspicious beasts, but individuals whose avocations did not oblige them 
to mix with horses — gentlemen of professional standing, who were inoc- 
ulated they knew not how. Mr. Gowing, of Camden Town, informed 
the writer, of a boy who once went from a shop to stand at the head of 
a pony the master of which wished to make a purchase. The animal, 
while the boy was so placed, cleared its nostrils, and a portion of the 
ejected matter flew into the lad's eye. The handkerchief removed the 
soil, and the accident was soon forgotten. However, the poor youth 
was glandered, and became a patient in the University Hospital. 

Such facts sufficiently prove all men have an interest in opposing any 
conduct likely to generate so horrible a scourge. Man, as a community, 
is answerable for the comfort of every creature intrusted to his charge. 
He may refuse to accept the conditions of the trust, but he cannot escape 
the responsibility. In proof of the truth of this conclusion, glanders is 
now recognized as one of those incurable diseases, generated by neglect, 
to which the human being is liable, in every hospital throughout the 
kingdom. 

Why is the legislature behind the medical profession in the extent of 
its recognitions ? Any man may now, according to law, drive or ride a 
glandered animal through the crowded streets of any town in the three 
kingdoms. He may, without fear of punishment, endanger the lives of the 
unsuspecting wayfarers, whom it is the especial province of the Parlia- 
ment to protect. Why should not the glandered stable be detected, and , 
the animals, dangerously diseased, be slaughtered ? Why should any 
man be allowed to retain, and openly use as property, that which is per- 
ilous to society ; and wherefore should law protect him, when harboring 
pestilence for the sake of profit ? 

That the foregoing observations are correctly based, is proved by the 
pest becoming less common as the public have morally improved — only, 
why leave so immediate an evil to be cured by so slow a process ? Years 



*2V6 GLANDERS. 

ago, an affected horse, led through the streets, was an almost hourly 
occurrence. Since that time we have improved, and such sights are no 
longer common. Therefore the morality here alluded to is not of limited 
meaning. It implies improvements in drainage, and all those innovations 
by which life has been made more secure. He is the truest benefactor 
of mankind who lessens the ills to which existence is exposed. 

Glanders is the phthisis of the horse. Phthisis is, in some countries, 
esteemed even more dangerously contagious than glanders and farcy are 
in England admitted to be. Man, however, employs a handkerchief; 
the plates off which he feeds are washed. The manger is never cleansed ; 
and the discharge soils the boards on which the corn reposes. 

The lungs of very many horses, however, which have perished of the 
pest, will exhibit numerous tubercles ; these, in the human subject, are 
considered conclusive evidence as to the existence of phthisis. 




THE LUNGS OF A HORSE WHICH HAD PERISHED FROM GLANDERS. 

(A portion of the left lung has been excised, to show the ravage of the disease.) 

By some practitioners glanders is esteemed a purely local disorder. 
In books, schools, and elsewhere, the running from the nose has been 
pointed out as the disease itself; and the situation of the affection is 
said to be the frontal sinuses — hence the dependence placed in various 
caustic injections forced up the nostrils. 

A very little reflection will, however, enable the reader to take a more 
extended view of the malady. When glanders exists, a staring coat 
generally declares the skin affected; and the customary termination of 
the disorder — farcy and dropsy — proves more than the surface of the 
body to be implicated. The lungs — or, at all events, the air-passages — 
never escape. Loss of flesh and swelling of the glands demonstrate the 
absorbent system to be involved. Absence of spirit and inability to work, 
toward the close of the affection, are evidence the nervous system does 
not escape. The secretions are derived from the blood ; and the blood, 
it has been shown, by a silly experiment, is capable of generating the 
malady. Their pallid aspect, after death, convinces us the muscles were 
far from healthy. Of all parts, perhaps, the abdominal contents are least 
diseased, though the marked decay of appetite does not favor such an 
opinion. What disease, then, can be considered a constitutional disor- 




GLANDERS. 211 

der, if one which involves so many and such various structures is to cti 
regarded as a strictly local affection ? 

A horse, full of corn, and in the prime of health, if unfortunately 
inoculated with the virus of glanders, generally has the disease iu its 
acutest form : the animal may be dead by the expiration of a week. 
Other quadrupeds, in which the disorder is provoked by natural causes, 
may, on the contrary, exhibit glanders in the most chronic shape. If 
the exciting cause has a strong con- 
stitution to act upon — especially 
if the horse, soon after imbibing 
the poison, be removed to easier 
work or a more dry abode — the 
malady may exist for years in a 
subtle, undeveloped form. A thin ,' 

discharge only may run, irregu- '°= rrLLrio™.^r/^^'^ 

larly, from one nostril. At times l- The lymphatic gland enlarged, hard, and adher- 

•' ' ent firmly to the interior of the jaw-bone. 

no fluid may appear, nor is the 

liquid ever copious. One of the kernels, or lymphatic glands, situated 
between the branches of the channel, may be more or less fixed. But, 
otherwise, the horse is active, full of fire, and exhibits nothing to excite 
suspicion. During all this time the creature may be endowed with a 
fatal power of communicating the disease. Horses, having received the 
taint from such a source, may die within the week, while the cause of 
the mortality eats well, works well, delights the master's eye by its 
thriving appearance, and in such a condition even may exist for years. 

In the early stage it is difficult to pronounce positively upon a case of 
glanders. Ulceration of the nasal membrane would be confirmation of 
the worst doubt ; but the ulceration may be situated so high up as to 
defy all our efforts to distinguish it. Yet running from the nose may 
be perceptible, and the gland may be fixed to the jaw. Both of these 
symptoms, although lawfully provoking our fears, are frequently attend- 
ant upon aggravated or upon prolonged colds. The only lawful test, 
in such cases, is the administration of three doses of solution of aloes, 
eight ounces to the dose — allowing three days to elapse between each. 
If the horse be glandered, before the last purgative has set the real 
nature of the malady will be apparent in the aggravation of the symp- 
toms. If glanders be not present, a little careful nursing will generally 
remove all effect of the medicine. 

The glanders is mostly ushered in by febrile disturbance. The appetite 
is bad, the coat stares, and the pulse is quickened. A mash or two, 
however, apparently sets all right, and the matter is forgotten. Soon 
afterward a slight discharge may issue from one nostril ; but it is so very 



2T8 



GLANDERS. 



slight, it excites no alarm. One of the lymfihatic glands, on the same 
side as the moist nostril, alters in character. It may remain loose and 
become morbidly sensitive. Usually, however, it grows adherent to the 
jaw, turns hard, insensitive, and, from being wholly imperceptible in the 
healthy animal, enlarges to about the size of half a chestnut. 




THE PRIMARY DISCHARGE OF GLANDERS. 
SIMPLY A SLIGHT WATERY DEFLU^ON. 




THE SECONDARY DISCHARGE. A THICK AND COPIOnS 
BUT STILL TRANSPARENT EXCRETION, CONTAININa 
PIECES AND THREADS OF MUCUS. 




THE THIRD, OR SUP- 
PURATIVE STAGE 
OF GLANDERS. 



At a later period the discharge, retaining its clear appearance, becomes 

more consistent, and, to a slight degree, the hairs and parts over which 

it flows are incrusted. It subsequently adheres to the margin of the 

nostril, and then, in the transparent, albuminous fluid 

may be seen opaque threads of white mucus. This 

marks the second stage. 

The next change takes place more rapidly. The trans- 
parent fluid entirely disappears, and in its place is seen a 
full stream of unwholesome pus. At this time there is 
some danger of glanders being mistaken for nasal gleet. 
A little attention will, however, rescue any person from 
so imminent a peril. The smell of glanders is peculiar. 
It is less pungent but more unwholesome, suggesting a more deep- 
seated source, than characterizes the disease with which it has been con- 
founded. The ejection of glanders, moreover, is obviously impure ; 
whereas that of nasal gleet generally flows forth in a 
fetid stream of thick and creamy matter. 

When the third stage is witnessed, the disease is 
rapidly hurrying to its termination. The membrane of 
the nose changes to a dull, leaden color. The margins 
of the nostrils become dropsical, and every breath is 
drawn with difiiculty. The defluxion exhibits discolora- 
tion. Scabs, masses of bone or pieces of membrane, 
mingled with patches of blood, next make their appear- 
ance; and the internal parts are evidently being broken 
up by the violence of the disorder. 

The above description of filthy facts is, probably, sufficiently explicit ; 
but to render the foregoing more clear, the following diagram is ap- 
pended. The reader will perceive there are two kinds of tubercles — 




THE FOURTH, OR LAST 
STAGE OF GLANDERS. 



GLANDERS. 



:T9 



the large and the small. One is no bigger than a grain of sand ; the 
other is as large as half a pea. The disease which follows both is the 
same, — is equally contagious and is equally fatal. It will also be re- 
marked, the membrane appears swollen and partially discolored in the 
case of glanders. It loses its bright, fleshy, or healthy hue; and it 
assumes a dull, heavy, and dropsical aspect. It will likewise be 
observed that comparatively few blood-vessels are ramifying upon the 
affected membrane, which sign, in a well-marked case, is often so obvious 
as to become a leading indication of the disorder. 




THE SEPTUM NASI OP AN OLD HORSE, SHOWING THE DIFFERENT KINDS AND STAGES OP GLANDERS. 

1. A large tubercle. 

2. The same in the ulcerative stage, pale in the center and dark at the edges. 

3. The same ulcers after they have united, sloughed in one another, or become confluent. 

4. The roughness which announces granular tubercles to be beneath the skin. 

5. The slightly elevated condition of the membrane when granular tubercles appear. 

6. Granular tubercles in the vesicular stage. 

7. Granular tubercles in the ulcerative stage. 

8. Granular tubercles after they have ulcerated and assumed the confluent form. 

It is usual for low dealers, when a tubercle in the vesicular stage is 
detected, to assert that it is only a piece of mucus. To test such asser- 
tion, wrap a portion of tow, or anything soft, round a small stick, and 
wipe the place. If it be mucus, it will be removed ; but if it remains, 
the reader may rest assured as to its nature. When an ulcer is seen, 
the dishonest salesman will laugh, and ask if that is all the inspector 




THE TURBINATED BONES OP A YOUNG HORSE WHICH WAS FREE FROM GLANDERS, SHOWING THOSE APPEAR- 
ANCES A GLANDERED NOSTRIL IS OFTEN ASSERTED TO EXHIBIT. 

1. A punctured wound, the skin removed, but darkest toward the center. 

2. A lacerated wound, with a flap of pendant membrane. 

3. A scratch — ^long and rough — having the edges slightly raised. 



can discover — declaring the horse recently hurt itself against a nail. 
The interior of the nostril is a very sheltered part, and, therefore, very 
unlikely to be wounded. Yet so that the reader may be prepared to 



280 GLANDERS. 

recog^nize such reality, in spite of the hard swearing and loud jocularity 
which is designed to confuse him, a diagram of a portion of the nostrils, 
covered with healthy membrane and showing the veins natural to the 
part, also displaying the shapes and appearances of wounds — when they 
occur — is inserted. 

The reader has been told what constitutes glanders. He has been 
instructed how to recognize its more marked indications. There, how- 
ever, remains to teach him the manner in which a suspected horse should 
be handled or examined. 

The animal's head should be turned toward the strongest light obtain- 
able ; if toward the blaze of the noonday sun, so much the better. The 
examiner should then place himself by the side of the creature's head, 
not in front, but in a situation where, though the animal should snort, 
he is in no danger of the ejected matter falling upon him. With one 
hand the upper and outer rim of the nostril should be raised ; when, 
grasping this part between the finger and thumb, no fear need be enter- 
tained. The case would be something more than suspicious, were any 
risk of contamination incurred. 

The wing of the nostril being raised, the examiner must note the 
appearances exposed; this he will best do by knowing where to look 
and what to expect. His eye has nothing to do 
with the skin nor with the marks that appear 
upon it. The opening of the lachrymal duct often 
challenges observation by being well defined and 
particularly conspicuous ; but that natural devel- 
opment does not concern him ; to that no atten- 
tion must be given. The inspection must be 
concentrated upon the membrane more internally 
situated than the skin seen at the commencement 
of the nostrils. The skin, moreover, suddenly 

THE PROOF OF GLANDERS. ,.,. iifni il ii 

ceases, and is obviously defined by a well-marked 

1. Termination of the lach- . ,. . ,, „ toi tj. • t 

rymai duct— a natural devei- margin ; there IS, therefore, no dimculty in dis- 
"T™ discolored membrane, tinguishing the mcmbrauc by its fleshy and moist- 
patches!'^ ^ " cerative ^^^^ aspcct, as Well as by its situation. If, on 
this membrane, any irregular or ragged patches 
are conspicuous, if these patches are darker toward their edges than in 
their centers, and if they, nevertheless, seem shallow, pallid, moist, and 
sore, the animal may be rejected as glandered. Should any part of the 
membrane — after being wiped as before directed — seem rough or have 
evidently beneath its surface certain round or oval-shaped bodies, the 
horse assuredly is glandered. The membrane may present a worm-eaten 
appearance, or be simply of a discolored and heavy hue. In the first 




GLANDERS. 281 

case, the animal ouglit to be condemned ; in the second, it is open to 
more than suspicion. 

No animal should be permitted to slowly perish of glanders. The 
disease, as it proceeds, affects the fauces, pharynx, and larynx; all 
become ulcerated. Not a particle of food can be swallowed ; not a 
drop of saliva can be deglutated ; not a breath of air can be inspired, 
without the severest torture being experienced. As the disease pro- 
ceeds, the obstruction offered to the breathing grows more and more 
painful. Farcy breaks forth, and, as a consequence, superficial dropsy is 
added to the other torments. The edges of Ihe nostrils enlarge ; the 
membrane lining the cavities bags out, while the fauces and larynx con- 
tract : the discharge becomes more copious and the breathing is impeded. 
Thus the difficulty of respiration is increased, just as the condition of the 
lungs renders the necessity of pure air the more imperative. Ultimately, 
however, laborious breathing induces congestion of the brain, and the 
wretched sufferer falls insensible — it is hoped — to die of actual suf- 
focation. 

Such is a brief description of glanders, to cure which every now and 
then pretenders arise. No medicine, however, can restore the parts 
which disease has disorganized. There is no cure for glanders, which is 
essentially an ulcerative disorder. Every horse being thus contaminated 
should be at once destroyed: it is now lawful to do this when animals 
are taken in Smithfield market ; but what is just in one place is surely 
not unjust in another. Moral rectitude resides on no particular spot. 
The blackguards who deal in contagion, driven from the public market, 
now reap a rich harvest by private sales. A chronically-glandered horse 
is an actual property to these rogues. It is sold. No sooner is the 
money paid and the vendor out of the way, than an accomplice appears 
and points out the nature of the bargain. The unfortunate purchaser 
seeks advice, and finds his worst fears confirmed. The accomplice offers 
to buy the horse at a knacker's price. It is obtained ; and again it is 
advertised as "a favorite horse, the property of a gentleman deceased." 

Any person ought by law to be empowered to give any man, driving 
or riding a glandered horse, into custody. There should be appointed 
certain qualified practitioners who should have authority to enter any 
stable at any time. Those abominations, where numbers of glandered 
horses are now stived together, whence they only are taken out to draw 
public vehicles by night, would then soon cease to exist. Were glan- 
dered horses by law condemned, men, from mercenary motives, would 
soon cease buying cheap life for the purpose of working disease to utter 
exhaustion. Such proprietors, were glanders declared just cause for 
slaughtering any horse wherever found, would soon discover their cheap 



282 FARCY. 

purchases to be dear bargains. It is terrible now to witness animals, in 
almost the last stage of a most debilitating malady, goaded through the 
public streets with cruel loads behind them. It is horrible, when we 
reflect that every citizen in a large town is, by the avarice of unscrupu- 
lous people, exposed to a most loathsome disease, and to a most tortur- 
ing death. 

FARCY. 

When the horse, which has been the pampered favorite in its youth, 
grows old, it generally becomes the half-starved and over-worked drudge 
of some equally half-starved proprietor. In the fullness of its pride 
and the freshness of its strength, it had to canter under the airy burden 
of my lady's figure. When the joints are stiff — when accident, disease, 
and sores, have rendered every movement painful ; and when its energy 
is poorly fed upon the rankest provender — then the wretched animal is, 




THE OLD FAVORITE AND THE NEW PET. 



by the whip of a thoughtless hireling, forced to toil between the shafts 
of some creaking cart. It is sad to watch the vehicles on a London 
road, and speculate upon what has been the past fortune and will be the 
future fate of the animals which propel them I 

Farcy is peculiarly the lot of the poor man's horse. It is the conse- 
quence of utter exhaustion. It is the horrid friend — the last and dread- 
ful rescuer of the thoroughly wretched. No one cause will produce it. 
To generate farcy, there must be a congregation of evils : the constitu- 
tion must be weakly ; the grooming must be neglected ; the food must 
be stinted ; the bed soiled ; the dwelling small ; the drainage bad ; the 
master unfeeling, and the work excessive. All of these things, or so 
many of them as nature can endure, must exist before farcy can be 
generated. 




FARCY. 283 

It is trne the disease can be communicated by inoculation. But that 
source of farcy is of very small importance. Not one case in a thousand 
thus originates. Farcy is essentially a skin disease. It commences with 
specific inflammation of the superficial absorbents. 
This inflammation leads to suppuration and to ul- 
ceration. Abscesses first appear. They may come 
on any part of the body. They seem to be, in the 
primary instance, lumps or hard enlargements. 
Something of the annexed form is first observed. 
There may be one of these, or there may be many. 
Ultimately they burst or are opened. Apparently 
healthy matter then issues from the interior. But 
the first discharge being released, the wound does a farcy bto. 

not heal. The edges grow rough, the center of 
the sore becomes pale, and moistened by a thin, semi-transparent fluid. 
Then, if the neighborhood of the sore be felt, cords, more or less thin, 
will be discovered running from it toward some other lumps on the 
body. 

Such is the distinguishing sign by which to recognize farcy. Lumps 
appear, which prove to be abscesses. They, after discharging, do not 
heal ; they become ulcers. From them run certain cords, which are the 
swollen lymphatic or absorbents. Till the enlargement of the absorbents 
is discerned, a man, from the other signs, may suspect, but he cannot 
pronounce with certainty, the disease to be farcy. 

If a recent case of farcy be slaughtered and dissected, the affection 
appears to go no deeper than the skin. The cellular tissue will exhibit 
indications of dropsy, which invariably is present. The muscles will be 
pallid and flabby, suggesting bodily debility ; but, to most observers, 
such signs will be all that is discernible. 

Is farcy, then, strictly, a local disorder? Can such be asserted of a 
malady which appears to be so constitutional in its origin ? Is there 
nothing continuous- with the skin ? Yes, there is. Intimately connected 
with the outward covering of the body, imperceptibly blending with it, 
and capable, after exposure, of assuming its appearance, is the mucous 
membrane. Mucous membrane lines the interior of the body, and is 
very abundantly supplied with absorbents. The French, who are far 
more minute observers and more accomplished dissectors than the gen- 
erality of English surgeons, have, in cases of farcy, detected signs which 
assure us the disease is not strictly an external affection. It has an 
internal and a deep-seated origin, as is evidenced by the discovery of a 
few tubercles upon the mucous membrane of the interior. 

The course of the disease would likewise teach us to arrive at this 



284 



FARCY. 



conclusion. The appetite often fails ; sometimes it becomes voracious. 
The matter is, by pressure, to be squeezed through the skin. The thirst 
becomes torturing; the horse will cry for water. All it drinks, however, 
passes quickly through the body, and the desire for fluid cannot be satis- 
fied. At last — as though to prove the correctness of our opinion con- 
cerning the constitutional nature of farcy — glanders breaks forth. 

Glanders and farcy seem to be the same disease, modified by certain 
circumstances to which the animal is exposed. Thus a horse, inoculated 
with the matter of glanders, may become farcied ; or an animal, infected 
with the taint of farcy, may exhibit glanders. These results, together 
with the fact of a glandered horse displaying farcy prior to death, and 
of a farcied animal exhibiting glanders previous to decease, are pretty 
conclusive evidence. 

Farcy is of two kinds, the large and the small. The large may appear 
as one or more abscesses. . Generally it is dis- 
posed to select, in the first instance, those places 
where the skin is thin and the hair all but ab- 
sent. It breaks, and becomes shallow ulcers, 
which, however, may heal upon the application 
of any escharotic. The abscesses are not, in 
every instance, of one absolute figure. They 
vary in such respect, and have a tendency, if 
neglected, to generate large ulcers, from which 
spring unsightly bunches of fungoid granulations. 
The smaller description of this disorder has 
no preference for any particular locality. It 
appears, like surfeit, in small lumps all over the 
body. These lumps, from their size and uni- 
formity, have been likened to buttons — hence 
the term "button farcy." Cords soon connect 
maturate and burst, like the larger sort. The "button 
farcy," however, leaves a deeper and a more 
painful ulcer. It yields less readily to 
treatment, and seems to exhibit itself be- 
fore the body is utterly exhausted. 

How very numerous the absorbents of 
the skin are, may be conjectured from the 
subjoined engraving of a prepared speci- 
men — and not a very successful one either 
■ — of a piece of farcied skin, when deprived 
of hair. In this case, the animal suffered 
under the large or common form of the 




farcy on the inside of the 
horse's thigh, where the SKI.V 
is thin and the hair almost 

ABSENT. 



them ; 




A PORTION OF SKIN, TAKEN FEOM A 
PARCTED HORSE, INJECTED WITH 
UEBCURT. 



FARCY. 



285 



disease. In the button variety, the tumors would only be smaller, of a 
more even size, and far more numerous. 

Farcy is, by the generality of practitioners, regarded as a more tract- 
able disease than glanders. Certainly the course of the disorder is 
arrested much easier ; but, to cure the malady, there is a constitution 
to renovate and a virus to destroy. Is it in the power of medicine to 
restore the health and strength, which have been underfed, sapped by a 
foul atmosphere, and exhausted by overwork ? Tonics may prop up or 
stimulate for a time ; but the drunkard and the opium-eater, among 
human beings, can inform us that the potency of the best-selected and 
the choicest drugs, most judiciously prescribed and carefully prepared, is 
indeed very limited. What, then, can be hoped for in an animal whose 
treatment is generally an affair of pounds, shillings, and pence ? Sul- 
phate of copper or of iron, oak-bark, Cayenne pepper, and cantharides, 
probably, are the chief medicines tlie practitioner will give. With such 
the horse may be patched up ; it may even return to work. But at what 
a risk ! It carries about the seeds of a disorder contagious to the human 
species, and in man even more terrible than in the quadruped. Is it 
lawful, is it right, to save an avaricious master the chance of a few shil- 
lings, and to incur the risk of poisoning an innocent person ? The 
author thinks not. Therefore he will give no directions how to arrest 
the progress of farcy. The horse, once contaminated, is, indeed, very 
rarely or never cured. The animal, after the veterinary surgeon has 
shaken hand^s with the proprietor and departed, too often bears about 
an enlarged limb, which impedes its utility, and, at any period, may 
break forth again with more than the virulence of the original affection. 




A QENTlEMAIf'S SEKVAMT OtJT OP PLACE. 



CHAPTER XII. 

LIMBS— THEIR ACCIDENTS ANB THEIR DISEASES. 



OSSEOUS DEPOSITS— SPAVIN. 

"One horse could wear out two pairs of legs," is an old jockey's 
phrase. Most men, when purchasing a dumb slave, pay great attention 
to the lower extremities. If an animal be used up or has performed 
hard work, the indications are sure to be found on those parts; but 
what a comment does the language and the act referred to pass upon 
the conduct of those masters, the history of whose treatment, or rather 




A PARK NAG 'WITH BONE BPAVIN LED OUT OF THE STABLE. 

whose abuse of a living creature, is thus sought for and often found 
upon a breathing frame ! 

Before the strength has departed, or the legitimate number of years 
are exhausted, cruelty deprives a most obedient drudge of its power to 
serve. The history of almost every horse in this kingdom is a struggle 
to exist against human endeavors to deprive it of utility. Nature, when 
she made the animal, formed a creature hardly second to her master-piece 
in anatomical perfection ; the legs are strong, but, in his impatience and 
in his blind obedience to the dictates of fashion, man will put them to 
(286) 



SPAVIN. 28t 

their fullest use before their structure is confirtued. Racers go into 
training when one year old. Carriage horses, omnibus machiners, cart 
horses, nags, roadsters, may-birds, and park hacks generally come into 
work about the third year. The animal, however, does not cut all its 
teeth till the completion of its fifth birthday. It requires to look upon 
eight seasons before its adult period is entered upon; and yet at the 
third year, or before that period, it is put to such work as only a horse 
can or does perform. 

When the horse was designed to be only matured, the frivolity of 
mankind pronounces the creature to be aged. The life is, indeed, gener- 
ally worthless before the eighth year is entered upon. The young flesh, 
bones, and sinews, long before that time arrives, are made the seats of 
poignant diseases. Work, not in the first instance laborious, but sud- 
den and energetic beyond what the frame of the young horse can endure, 
casts it out of the gentleman's stable. Once removed from that place, 
its descent is rapid. From the carriage to the cab is a leap often cleared 
in equine history; but every change adds misery to its lot. It fares 
worse, lodges worse, and works harder with every new proprietor, till 
at length, as its years and wretchedness accumulate, Nature interposes 
and takes the sufferer to herself. 

At the head of this article stands an engraving of the mildest form 
of reward which docility reaps by service unto cruelty. When will this 
land, which so loudly boasts its Christianity, apply in its fullness and its 
strength the sacred maxim — "Do unto others as you would others should 
do unto you "? When will churchmen teach that the religion which does 
not enlarge the heart toward every breathing life upon the earth, is un- 
worthy of the Christian title ? Men who would rage to hear their faith 
called in question, nevertheless feel no shame when they urge the young 
steed to that act which probably will cripple the animal for the short 
remainder of its life. 

Spavin, splint, or ring-bone are no more the legitimate consequences 
of equine existence, than nodes and anchylosis are the natural inherit- 
ances of human beings; yet what would the world look like, if men 
had their motions impeded and their joints firmly locked by bony 
deposits in anything like the proportion which such misfortunes are 
witnessed in the inferior life ? The most useful, the most trusting, and 
the most joyous of animals is the one toward which man acts as though 
his study was to abuse the authority intrusted to him. Its utility lies 
in its legs ; its play also is a canter ; but before its body is set, its limbs 
are disabled. Kindness can subdue the creature, which, however, is 
never taken out of its prison without the whip ; it is treated as a thing 
without feeling : but its body is not more impressible to brutality than 



288 



SPAVIN. 



its feelings are sensitive to gentleness. The one is often injured, and 
the others are frequently vitiated by the master it too literally obeys. 

Spavin and splint both are the change of ligamentous structure into 
bone: spavin occurs at the inner and lower part of the hock; splint 
also may be sometimes found at the same part of the knee. The name 
splint is likewise applied to any bony enlargement upon 
the shins or below the hocks and the knees. 

Splints in the fore leg are mostly seen on the inner side. 
On the hind limb, however, such growths principally 
favor the outer side. The advent of splint, when near 
the knee, is generally accounted for by saying the inner 
side of the joint lies more under the center of gravity, 
BONE sPATijf. ^^^ therefore, is the more exposed to injury. Such an 

A swelling or bony ^ o ^ 

tumor, situated interpretation, however, leaves the preference for the outer 

upon the lower i ' ' 

and inner part of locality — wheu spliuts are witnessed on the hind leg — 

the hock-joint. •/ i. a 

unexplained. Perhaps the reader will — after having con- 
templated the two following engravings, and subsequent to having 
observed that the artery of the hinder limb crosses the inferior part of 
the hock, to take its course down the outer side of the leg, while in 
the fore extremity the vessel continues along the inner side of the shin- 






THE inside OF the fore leg, showino the 

VESSELS PROPER TO THAT PART OF THE 
LIMB GENERALLT AFFECTED BY OSSEOUS 
DEPOSITS. 



THE outside OF THE HIND LEO, DISPLATINO 
THE VESSELS NATURAL TO THAT PART OP 
THE LIMB WHICH IS COMMONLr THE SEAT 
OF OSSEOUS DEPOSITS. 



bone — conclude with the author that, in splint, the distribution of the 
blood is more to be regarded than the weight, which, originally conveyed 
through a ball-and-socket joint, can hardly afterward affect one part to 
the release of the rest. 

Having explained the peculiarity attending some bony tumors on the 



SPAVIN. 



289 



hind extremity, it now becomes our duty to explain what actually con- 
stitutes a spavin. Any bony growth or bony enlargement, however 
small, which is to be seen or felt upon the inner side of the hock, is a 
"spavin." But of spavins there are three kinds. The low sort, or the 
"Jack" of the horse-dealer's phraseology. This answers to the splint 
of the fore leg, and originates in the top of the splint bone. 





A SHIN-BONE HAVING AN OSSEOUS DEPOSIT UPON 
ITS HEAD AND ON THE INNER SIDE, WHICH 
MIGHT BE A SPLINT OR A SPAVIN, AS IT OC- 
CURRED UPON THE FORE OR HIND LEG. 



THE INNER SIDE OP THE HOCK AF- 
FLICTED VrlTH HIGH OR INCUR- 
ABLE SPAVIN. 



The bony enlargement, should it be located comparatively high upon 
the joint, often produces acute and incurable lameness. When low 
down, the granules of bone have little to interfere with. Being placed 
higher up, the tendons have to play over the osseous deposit ; and, when 
that happens, the cure is hopeless. 

The above form of disease, however, does not ensue upon every case 
of spavin. Many good racers, and most seasoned hunters, have spavins, 
which do not in any way detract from their speed, however much these 
growths may interfere with their action. 

Bony spavin does, when the quadruped starts, sensibly deteriorate that 





THE NATURAL POSITION OF THE HEALTHY FOOT 
■WHEN RAISED FROM THE EARTH DURING AN 
EASY TROT. 



THE FOOT, INCAPABLE OF BEING FREELY 
RAISED FROM THE GROUND, BY A HORSE 
WHICH IS BADLY SPAVINED. 



grace of motion which should characterize the action of the perfect 
horse. During the trot, the leg should be lifted clear of the earth, 

19 




290 SPAVIN. 

while, by an involuntary movement within the hock-joint, the hoof is in- 
clined outward. This peculiarity is exhibited in the engraving on page 289, 
which supposes the spectator to be standing by the side of the animals. 
Exostosis, formed on any part, locks together the bones which the 
deposit may involve, or it unites the several distinct parts into one 
osseous mass. By the bones of the hock being thus joined, all movement 
of the shin is effectually prevented ; the foot of a spavined horse is, to 
a spectator who is laterally situated, always presented in a side view. 
Moreover, when severe spavin is present, the entire flexion of the lower 
portion of the limb is rendered impossible. 

The toes being moved along, instead of being lifted from the ground, 
occasions the hoof and shoe to suffer wear. The hoof 
generally presents a toe blunted by perpetual friction ; 
while the shoe of a spavined horse is, in front, worn to 
a state of positive sharpness. These indications of dis- 
ease should always be sought for, and, when present, 
they are so obvious as hai'dly to be mistaken. 

Another test for spavin consists in observation made 

5BHE FOOT OF A SPAV- ^^ n ■ l i .1 «. , n 

iNED LIMB, sHowma upou the manner of going. A horse thus attected comes 
TOE OF THE HOOP AND out of thc stablc always stiff, and sometimes lame. 

shoe; BOTH ARE CON- -i-l • 1 • j_l 1 1 i p, ,1 

SEQUENT UPON DRAG- Exercisc, by warmmg the body, seems to soften the 

GINO THE MEMBER .11 I^ j.1 J- Jj.1 -ll'l 

UPON THE GROUND. stuobomness oi the disease ; and the same animal, which 
left the stable in a crippled condition, may return to it 
in a state which, to the generality of gentlemen, would represent sound- 
ness. So well are dealers acquainted with this fact, that it is a custom 
with these folks for a spavined horse to be warmed before it is shown to 
a probable purchaser. No person, however, should hazard an opinion 
on any quadruped which is not perfectly cool, especially when there is a 
motive to be suspected of the slightest desire for a favorable judgment. 
The horse which, after exercise, should trot past with no obvious sign 
of spavin, having stood for an hour in the stable, would come forth a 
decided cripple, or, at all events, with such faulty action that a novice 
would immediately detect something wrong about the legs. This 
peculiarity is illustrated by the engraving which heads the present 
chapter. 

Should the dealer refuse to exhibit the animal when cool, such refusal 
would be convincing evidence as to the condition of the horse. The 
sale should, under such circumstances, be at once repudiated. 

However, when judging of disease, it is always well to divest the mind 
of every kind of prejudice. Animals of a certain kind of conformation 
are said to be disposed, or to be more than ordinarily subject, to spavin. 
Creatures of the foregoing sort show what are denominated sickle-hocks 



SPAVIN. 



291 




A SICKLE-HOCKED OR COW-HOCKED HORSE. 



or cow-hocks. A sickle-hock is not a diseased joint, but it is one 

which the majority of horsemen have stigmatized as very liable to 

become diseased. Weakness, it 

it is only natural to imagine, such 

a malformation indicates ; but, 

so far as the author's experiencdi 

goes, creatures thus formed often 

continue sound when limbs of 

model shape give way. 

It is now our duty to inform the 
reader how to examine a horse for 
spavin. In this operation there 
are four points of view to be taken 
— behind the animal, though al- 
ways at a safe distance from the 
heels ; in the front, but not close 
to the horse, yet so near that the 
examiner must bend to view the 
hocks between the fore legs ; and 

from both the sides. In all these positions, it is prudent now to elongate 
the distance and now to approach nearer; then to move the head about, 
and occasionally to step to the right or to the left. In short, it is advisable 
to get as many different points of sight as possible ; for in one, and only 
in one, may a spavin be detected on the hock, which, seen from any other 
spot, shall look perfectly clean. At the same time, from every point 
care should be taken to compare one hock with the other; if the slightest 
difference in point of size can be detected, it is fair to suppose one is 
enlarged by the commencement of disease. Any indication of this sort 
is always to be sought for. The disease may have just begun, but it is 
impossible to say where it may stop. The spavin may be very small ; 
yet who can assert its growth is perfected ? In the examination for 
spavin, however, allowance should be made for the age of the horse. 
Spavins, in young horses, may be regarded with alarm ; in old animals, 
they generally are perfected, and, however large they may be, probably 
they will grow no bigger — on the contrary, as the years increase, they 
are usually diminished, being absorbed ; but the bones, once locked 
together, are never subsequently unloosed, although all the swelling 
should entirely disappear. 

The examination having been up to this point properly performed, 
there is yet another test to be adopted before the animal is trotted forth; 
here a well-trained and attentive groom is of every value — one who will 
keep on the same side as you may be upon, and who will follow your 



292 



SPAVIN. 



footsteps whenever you change from right to left. The duty of this 
groom is to hold up the front leg ; the more stress is placed upon his 
attention, because no horse can kick with the hind foot of that side upon 




THE POINTS OP VIEW 'ffHENCE TO LOOK FOB SPAVIN IN A HORSE. 



which one fore leg is off the ground. The attempt would deprive the 
body of all lateral support, and a fall would ensue ; whereas many quad- 
rupeds can, for a short time, balance themselves upon two legs, each 
being on opposite sides of the body : therefore the examiner, probably 
engrossed in his occupation, would be in considerable danger, should the 
groom forget to follow his movements. 

Most horses are averse to having the hocks fingered ; such liberties 
are apt to call up vehement indignation ; it is necessary, therefore, to 
guard him who undertakes to inspect them. This the groom does most 
effectually ; but the examiner should also take some caution — he should 
stand as close to the foot of the horse as may be convenient. Thus, 
should the animal kick out, he may escape, or, at most, be very rudely 
pushed on one side. The horse's kick is only severe after the heels have 
reached some distance, or have obtained power by propulsion ; for that 
reason is the advice given to stand as near the hind foot as may be 
convenient. 

Being in this situation, one hand is laid upon the top of the hock, and 
the entire weight of the body is brought to 
bear upon that part. The object is three^ 
fold — to obtain, by this means, the earliest 
intimation of any design on the part of the 
animal to use the limb ; to impede in some 
measure the extension of the leg ; and to 
gain a point of rest on which to lean, while 
the head is bent forward to inspect, the free 
hand being employed to feel the part ap- 
propriate to spavin. Afterward comes the 
trot, the peculiarities to be detected in which 
have been anticipated. 

Now we encounter the important ques- 
tion, What can be done for a spavined horse ? If the animal be not 




THE MANNER IN 'WHICH TO PEKL FOR A 
SPAVIN. 



SPAVIN. 293 

lame, let it alone. However large, however unsightly the deposit may 
be, do not run the chance of exciting a new action in a part where 
disease exists in a quiescent form. 

The regular treatment is to purge, give diuretics, bleed, blister, rowel, 
seton, periostoteomy, neurotomy, fire, and punch. The bleeding may be 
great or small, local or general ; the blister, mild or severe, applied over 
half the joint at a time, or rubbed in after the limb has been scored by 
the iron. Rowels and setons may also be simple, or they may be smeared 
with irritants, which are made of different strengths. Periostoteomy 
may be single, or may be made compound by the addition of a seton 
and a blister. Neurotomy is very unsatisfactory, and very often a most 
tedious affair when employed to cure spavin. The fire may be down to 
the true skin ; it may be through the skin, and on to the tumor ; or it 
may be inflicted by means of a blunt-pointed instrument, which, when 
heated, burns its way into the bone itself. The punch also admits 6t 
variety ; it may be with or without a blister ; it may be holes made in a 
living body, which holes are filled with a corroding paste. Or the oper- 
ation may consist of the exposure of the bone, and cutting off the offend- 
ing portion with a saw, or knocking away part of a breathing frame 
with a chisel and a mallet. 

All these tortures have for centuries been inflicted ; they have been 
practiced upon thousands of animals, only for men, at this day, to doubt 
whether the cruelty has been attended with the slightest service. Flesh, 
as capable of feeling as our own, has been cut, irritated, burnt, and 
punched for hundreds of years ; and now, at the twelfth hour, such 
operations are not discarded, but their efficacy is mildly questioned. 

Reader, if you have a horse which is lame from spavin, and your cal- 
culations tell you it will not pay to nurse the cripple, have it slaughtered. 
Do not consent to have it tortured for a chance ; do not sell it to the 
certainty of a terrible old age and of immediate torment. 

The cure for spavin is good food and rest — perfect rest : such 
rest or stagnation as a healthy horse submits to in the stable. This, 
enjoined for months, with the occasional application of a mild blister, 
with the best of food, to- enable nature to rectify man's abuse, will do 
more good, cost no more money, and occupy no more time than the 
devilries usually adopted, and very often adopted without success. As 
an additional motive on the side of humanity, it may be stated that the 
horse suffers much more when disease is located in the hind than when 
it is exhibited upon the fore leg. The ravages which, in the first case, 
would endanger the life, in the last would be borne with comparative 
tranquillity. The posterior parts of the animal seem to be endowed 
with exquisite sensibility ; yet, in spite of this, the so-called cure for 



294 SPLINT. 

spavin, and the boasted treatment for ages, only consists in torturing the 
hocks of the animal. 

While inflammation exists, apply poultices, and well rub the part with 
a mixture of belladonna and of opium — one ounce of each drug rubbed 
down with one ounce of water. Or place opium and camphor on the 
poultices ; or rub the enlargement with equal parts of chloroform and 
camphorated oil. The pain having subsided and the heat being ban- 
ished, apply, with friction, some of the following ointment. It may 
reduce the disease by provoking absorption ; at all events, it will check 
all further growth by rendering further deposit almost an impossibility. 

Iodide of lead One ounce. 

Simple ointment Eight ounces. 

Mix. 

SPLINT. 

The horse, could it only speak, would have sufficient cause to over- 
whelm man with its injui-ies. It is to be hoped that He who heeds not 
language, but reads the heart, will not peruse the horror written on that 
of the most contented and sweetest-dispositioned of man's many slaves. 
It is true, colts have spavin and splints. Creatures, whose days of bit- 
terness are as yet to come, exhibit exostoses ; but these blemishes are 
the sad inheritances of the cruel service exacted by thoughtless masters 
from the progenitors of the deformed. Nature gave the horse a fibro- 
cartilaginous or elastic union to particular bones, so that all its motions 
might be bounding and graceful. The animal, thus formed, was pre- 
sented to man ; but the gift was not prized by him to whom it was given. 
The authority possessed was abused. The capability of the horse was 
only measured by what it was able, at the risk of its life, to perform. 
The most humane of modern proprietors is an ignorant tyrant to his 
graceful bond-servant. The most meek of owners likes his horse to 
possess high action. The consequence is, the leg, lifted from the ground 
to the highest possible point, is forcibly driven again to the earth. This 
pace is imposed upon a creature so docile, it only seeks to learn that 
which pleases its master, and, in the entirety of its confidence, never 
mistrusts its instructor. The lesson is learned. The animal soon 
becomes proud to exhibit its acquirement. High action, however — 
especially that kind of action the horse is taught to exemplify — soon 
deranges the system. It breeds inflammation in the fibro-cartilaginous 
tissues, upon which its chief strain is felt. The union between the splint 
bones and the cannon, or between the shin-bone and the accessories, one 
on either side, speedily becomes converted into osseous matter. 

However, man cannot say to nature, " Thus far shalt thou go, and no 



SPLINT. 



295 




farther," otherwise the alteration of structure, if unseen, might distresf* 
the horse, but would little affect the owner. A diseased action, once 
started up, is apt to involve other parts than those in which it originateti'. 
Thus, a splint is strictly an exostosis or bony tumor on the inner and 
lower part of the knee-joint; but there are found to be others which this 
definition will not embrace. Here, for instance, are the ordinary kinds 
of splint to be seen, more or less, in every animal subject to man's usage. 

Number 1 is unsightly. Moreover, it gives an unpleasant jar to 
the rider of the poor horse thus deformed ; and few men, when they 
state this fact, ever think of what sensation that which jars 
the equestrian must occasion to the steed. It will produce 
lameness at first; but, this surmounted and the tumor fully 
formed, it causes no inconvenience beyond a loss of elasti- 
city when in motion ; and because it provokes no lameness, 
man says it is unattended by feeling. 

Figure 2 is a splint on the side of the leg. It also is 
unsightly, and produces a disagreeable sensation to the 
person in the saddle. Moreover, it is exposed to accidents. 
If the horse has high and close action, the tumor may be 
struck when the foot is being raised. Such a possibility is 
not altogether free from danger. The horse, having grazed 
the swelling, will often fall down as though it were shot. 
That circumstance warrants the supposition that these 
growths are not quite so devoid of sensibility as most 
horse owners are pleased to assert they are. 

The slight enlargement, opposite which stands figure 
3, denotes a growth of small size. It may be of no 
great consequence, if it appear on a vacant part of the bone, or on 
a place over which no tendon passes ; but it is of serious import, if 
situated beneath a tendon, as then it causes incurable lameness. 

Man having provoked these blemishes, Nature generally strives to 
remove the effects of his stupidity. She will smooth the top of the 
tumor by the interposition of cartilage and of ligament, that the skin 
may not be irritated when passing over these enlargements. She will 
also develop a false bursa on the top of each, thereby causing the integ- 
ument to move with an approach to ease. 

Yet there are other sorts of splints which often are very serious 
affairs. That the reader may comprehend, these, let him attend to the 
next engraving. 

1 — Represents a splint which has involved the bones of the knee, and 
which has left the horse only the joint formed by the lower end of the 
radius to progress with. This is a sad business. The action is injured 



THE DIFFERENT 
KINDS OF SPLINT. 

1. A high 
splint, near the 
knee. 

2. A low splint, 
fai- from the 
knee. 

3. A small 
bony growth on 
the front of the 
Ieg,whichi3al80 
called a splint. 



296 



SPLINT. 




SPLINTS OP A SERIOnS KIND. 



for life; and death, or a cart, is the lot of the wretched animal so 

diseased. 

2 — Shows fine points of bone, so placed that they would impinge upon 
the suspensory ligament, if not upon the flexor 
tendons. Lameness, in its acutest form, would 
thereby be caused wherever the limb was bent. 
The lameness, probably, would last till death, as 
splints in this situation are rarely discovered dur- 
ing* life. 

3 — Denotes an enlargement, probably produced 
by a blow received during a leap, or given by an 
impatient groom. It is placed directly under one 
of the extensor tendons. In consequence of this 
minute substance, the severest agony is endured, 
or the most marked lameness exhibited, whenever 

1. A splint involving the the leg is advauccd. 

bones of the knee-joint. mi j. • -i. i? j.i. t j- ij. 

2. A splint interfering with Thc great majority of these maladies may result 
s.'A^'smaiV'spHnt^situated from the present rage for high action, and the too 

rofmusde!'"''^''''''^^'' '''''''" general practice of pushing the horse beyond his 
speed. Racers and hunters commonly have splints : 
almost every roadster exhibits them. Few draught-horses are without 
them : they are all but universal. It may be easy to detect or to feel a 
full-sized splint ; but it is rather difiBcult to discover these tumors when 
they are small, or when they are just beginning to develop themselves. 
At that period they are most painful. They may be mere deformities when 
fully formed ; but, when growing, though not to be 
seen, they are apt to cause decided lameness. 

The cause of such failing action very often can 
only be guessed at. To detect a fully-developed 
splint, stand at the side of the animal's leg and 
grasp the posterior part of the shin ; then, by run- 
ning the thumb down on one side and the fingers 
on the other, in the groove formed by the junction 
of the two small splint-bones with the cannon- 
bone, the examiner may recognize enlargement or 
feel heat, should either exist. By making pressure 
where the heat or swelling is perceived, he may 
cause the leg to be snatched up. Should nothing 
result from this trial, the animal is trotted gently 
up and its action is observed. Horses with splints, when lame, gener- 
ally "dish" or turn the leg outward, when it is raised from the ground. 
That is done because the bending of the limb pressed the splint-bone 




A HORSE "dishing," OR CAR- 
KTING THE FRONT lEG OUT- 
WARD, WHEN ON THE TROT. 



SPLINT. 29t 

downward, the outward carriage of the shin being an endeavor to lessen 
the pain which attends upon the natural action. 

Should no "dishing" be remarked, next observe whether the leg is 
fully flexed or advanced; and, after the hints thus received, the inves- 
tigation may be resumed with a better prospect of success. 

The treatment of splint is conveyed in the old maxim, "time and 
patience." Rest will do more than physic. A man, therefore, may as 
well let his horse rest in his own stable, as pay for rest, lodging, and 
useless treatment in another place. Splints, moreover, if only subjected 
to rest, accompanied with liberal feeding, are likely the sooner to attain 
their maximum magnitude. If they are interfered with under the pre- 
tense of treatment, the irritation may cause them to increase ; thus the 
proprietor, through his impatience, may purchase an injury. 

When they are acutely painful, a poultice, on which one drachm of 
opium and one drachm of camphor is sprinkled, will frequently afford 
relief They may also, at such times, be rubbed with a drachm of chloro- 
form combined with two drachms of camphorated oil. These measures, 
however simple, aim at mitigating the present symptoms — they do not 
even infer the possibility of cui'ing the disease. Periostoteomy pre* 
tended to do something of that sort ; but has failed so often, it is now 
seldom recommended by practiced vetferinarians. 

When, however, a particle of the bone interferes with a tendon, the 
lameness is so acute that often the choice lies between cure and death ; 
for some, even of present proprietors, scorn to sell a favorite horse which 
has become sick in their service. In these cases, it is lawful to open the 
* skin, and with a fine saw, a chisel or a sharp knife, to remove the offend- 
ing growth ; after the operation, leave the skin open and dress the wound 
with a lotion made of chloride of zinc one grain, to water one ounce. 
This application has the great merit of keeping down granulations ; but 
employ nothing irritating to the bone, or the result may be worse than 
the injury which has been removed. 

Splints sometimes occur on the outer side of the hind leg ; there, how- 
ever, they are little thought of. The hind leg propels the horse, but 
does not support its body; therefore, splints of this last sort are less 
unpleasant to the rider. The hind leg, not bearing much weight, splints, 
when situated on that member, do not occasion very severe lameness, 
and the enlargement being located upon the outside of the shin, is thereby 
removed from the possibility of being struck by the opposite hoof. For 
these reasons, splints of the foregoing nature are considered trifles, and 
are rarely esteemed worthy of much notice. 

To check the further enlargement of a splint with a fair chance of also 
removing the deformity — though with no hope of releasing the parts 




298 RING-BONE. 

locked together by bony union — employ the ointment already recom- 
mended for spavin : — 

Iodide of lead One ounce. 

Simple ointment Eight ounces. 

Mix, and apply with friction thrice daily. 

RING-BONE. 

The whole soul of the horse seems devoted to man's will ; who has 
not seen a team of small but sturdy horses contrive to drag a heavy load 
up a steep hill, as though nothing could afford them such content as to 
leave their hoofs behind them 1 What Londoner 
but has witnessed the cart-horse dig its toes into 
the stones of Ludgate Hill, and make the muscles 
bulge out upon the glossy coat as though life had 
but one object, and to that object the animal was 
straining every nerve 1 

A sight such as this, when properly contemplated, 
A HORSE STRAINING TO canuot othcrwisB than teach man to esteem his fel- 

MOUNI A STEEP HILl. l -i 

low-laborer; for what creature on earth toils so 
willingly in the service of humanity as the horse ? At any hour it is 
ready — in health it is willing, and in sickness it is obedient ; even when 
worn out, entirely used up and driven to the slaughter-house, it looks 
upon its slayer with large placid eyes, stands quietly in the place 
where it is bid, with no mistrust in the kindness of its abuser, and ends 
a life of devotion by accepting the blow almost as a favor. It is the 
only animal which lives but to more than share the burden of its owner; 
yet, of all existing quadrupeds, the horse is the most ill treated. 

Ring-bone is an osseous deposit; so far it resembles splint and spavin: 
it differs, however, in the kind of horses it attacks. Splint and spavin 
are principally witnessed upon quadrupeds of speed. Ring-bone is all 
but confined to the cart-horse. It is caused by those violent efforts this 
animal makes, in obedience to the voice of the driver, when dragging a 
heavy load up some sharp ascent. The entire force is then thrown upon 
the bones of the pastern ; inflammation ensues ; lymph is effused ; the 
lymph becomes cartilage, and the cartilage is converted into bone. Then 
an exostosis is established, and a ring-bone is the consequence. 

The disease may implicate one or more bones; it may involve one or 
more joints; it may also be confined to one bone; it may be either par- 
tial or complete. It may exist as a slight enlargement in front of the bone, 
or it may quite encircle it. On page 299 is a specimen of the disease. 
The exostosis, as in this case, was prominent during life. The disease 



RING-BONE. 



299 



did not quite encircle the bones, and though, when the preparation was 
dried, the different parts could be slightly moved one upon another*, 
yet, daring life, the joints were firmly locked. 




THE PASTERN AND PEDAI, BONE OF A HORSE 
AFFECTED WITH SEVERE BING-BONE. 

1. The joint between the pastern bones, showing 
the groove in which the tendon of the extensor 
pedis muscle reposed. 

2. The joint between the lower pastern and the 
bone of the foot. 




THE FOOT OP A LIVING HORSE WTTH 
AGGRAVATED RING-BONE. 

The animal, from which the above sketc> 
was taken, although used to propel a cart, 
was by no means of a cart breed. The crea- 
ture rather hobbled than went lame ; but all 
flexion was entirely lost in the pastern bones. 



One of the above sketches depicts this disease as it appeared 
prior to death. The reader has now to consider the consequences of 
such a deformity; it materially interferes with the value. The hind 
limbs are the instruments of propulsion in the horse ; these are much 
incapacitated by the presence of ring-bone. An animal thus affected 
might move an easy load upon even ground ; but when the weight had 
to be drawn up hill, the creature would obviously be unable to use the 
toe ; the foot, placed fiat upon the ground, or so shod as to have an even 
bearing, would perceptibly be of comparatively little use in such a case. 
So, also, in descending an inequality, the horse with severe ring-bone 
will be unable to bite the earth. Ring-bone, therefore, does incapacitate 
the animal for many uses, besides interfering with the free employment of 
the muscular energy ; no persuasion or brutality can induce a maimed ani- 
mal to cast its full weight upon a diseased limb. The pace may be quick- 
ened by the lash ; but the horse will, nevertheless, continue to hop when 
the affected member touches the earth. 

Let mankind, therefore, reflect that the horse is given as their fellow- 
laborer. The life of the quadruped is the property of the master; but 
who, being sane, would abuse his own property ? The being who should 
destroy chairs and tables — although such things can be mended — would 
be speedily confined as mad. Yet it has not entered the mind of man, 
as a reasonable idea, that to deface a living image — to destroy the value 
or to deteriorate the property which is present in the animal — deserves 
more than the very mildest of punishments. The breathing creature, 



300 STRAIN OF THE FLEXOR TENDON. 

when defaced, cannot be made sound again. Horse property is noto- 
riously hazardous. It should be the care of men to use a tender thing 
with a greater gentleness. Instead of which, horses are galloped till 
they become blind, and lashed to drag weights beyond the proper limits 
of their strength. Men, who never think in whom the fault really lies, 
complain that Providence has not suited the horse to purposes 'such as 
would derange most iron-wrought machines ! 

When a horse first shows ring-bone, seek to allay the pain. Apply 
peultices, on which one drachm of powdered opium and one of camphor 
has been sprinkled. Rub the disease with equal parts of oil of camphor 
and of chloroform. The pain having ceased, have applied, with friction, 
to the seat of enlargement and around it, some of the following oint- 
ment, night and morning : — 

Iodide of lead One ounce. 

Lard Eight ounces. 

Mix. 

Continue treatment for a fortnight after all active symptoms have dis- 
appeared, and allow the animal to rest — being liberally fed for at least 
a month subsequent to the cessation of every remedy. When work is 
resumed, mind it is gentle, and be very careful how the horse goes to its 
full labor. 

STRAIN OF THE FLEXOR TENDON. 

The flexor tendons of the legs are liable to a variety of accidents 
Injuries to these structures, according to their severity, are denominated : 
strain of the flexor tendon, clap of the back sinews, sprain of the 
back sinews, and breaking down. 

The first accident is common enough, and springs from the horse being 
forced to perform extraordinary work on uneven ground. Else it is 
caused by the irritability of the rider; tugging now at one rein, then at 
the other; forcing a timid animal into strange contortions, and at the 
same time elevating the head, thereby throwing all the strain upon the 
muscles. This is a spectacle repeatedly presented to him who walks 
about town. An angry rider is seen sawing, without compunction, at 
the mouth of some patient horse. The spectators look on complacently. 

There is nothing offensive to them in an enraged man venting his 
anger on an unofi'ending creature. Were the act generally reprehended, 
it would not be so frequently exhibited ; but the only emotion the con- 
templation of another's brutality appears to elicit, is a desire in the pas- 
sengers to provide for their own security. 

The main cause, however, of the most prevalent of these sad deform- 
ities is that of the shaft-horse descending a steep declivity with a load 



STRAIN OF THE FLEXOR TENDON. 301 

behind it. The weight would roll down the descent : this the horse has 
to prevent, and the chief stress is then upon the back tendons. The in- 
juries to such parts are generally of a chronic character. The strain 
seldom occasions decided lameness. But the horse being harnessed to 
the shafts, the cause is in daily operation. The part injured is being 
constantly excited. Thus, without the development of a single acute 
symptom, the tendons are stretched — a low kind of inflammation is 
generated — and this action being kept up, the sinews gradually lose 
their elasticity, and shorten. 

When strain of the fore leg is received, the animal goes oddly, but is 
not lame. However, if put into the stable and taken out the next morn- 
ing, the horse is found to be stiff and apparently very cramped. The 
halting action may disappear upon exercise ; but assuredly it will again 
be present on the following dawn. The proprietor may resolve to work 
"the brute" sound. Such a speculation with disease may occasionally 
answer ; but, on the large scale, it is a losing game, for it more often 
fails than succeeds : the limb, on work, commonly does not amend. The 
symptoms are aggravated in every way ; and what was curable in the 
first stage is apt, after the lapse of time, to degenerate into an intracta- 
ble malady. The many horses to be seen in the London cab ranks, with 
the fore limbs permanently contracted, are evidences as to the result of 
such very knowing treatment. 

When a horse slightly strains the flexor tendon, do not expect to 
discover the seat of the affection till several hours have elapsed. Then 
pass the hand gently down the injured limb. A small swelling may be 
detected. The enlargement may feel soft, slightly warm, but hardly 
tender. Bind a linen bandage round the leg rather tightly, and keep 
this constantly wet with cold water. For the three first nights, have 
men to sit up in the stable and perform that operation. After that time, 
if everything goes on well, wet the limb only during the day. 

Throw up the horse till more than recovered, and do not put it to full 
work till some period after that event. Give immediately four drachms 
of aloes. Allow only two feeds of corn per day ; but do not turn out 
to graze, under the idea that it saves cost and gives a chance that th« 
animal may be taken up sound. At grass, the horse must walk many 
miles to eat poor food, sufiicient to support life. This kind of motion 
will not suit a strain, which does best with absolute rest. Keep, there- 
fore, in a stall, and do not begrudge the necessary meat to support the 
life which has suffered injury, and is now enduring pain, in consequence 
of exertion made in your service. 



302 



CLAP OF THE BACK SINEWS. 



CLAP OF THE BACK SINEWS. 



When the accident is more severe, and the sprain more decided, it is 
spoken of as "clap of the back sinews;" this is a serious aflfair. The 
usual fate of the wretched animal thus maimed is to be sold to the 
highest bidder. It passes from a carefully-tended stable to some wretched 
out-shed ; and its new master is made happy, if the crippled horse can 
only limp, and somehow get through a day's labor. No pity is wasted 
upon agony ; " the beast," as it is now called, has to live worse, work 
harder, and drag out a miserable existence with the heavy burden of an 
almost useless limb. 

Clap of the back sinews results from exertion ; it may be the work of 
an instant. The horse sometimes is pulled up, or, 
in severe cases, it falls. If it be pulled up, it refuses 
to move at a quicker pace than a hobble, and stands 
still again so soon as whip or spur are not appljied 
to the sufferer's body. The maimed limb is flexed, 
and rests upon the toe of the injured leg. There 
can be no mistake now about the seat of lameness ; 
the foot of the afiFected limb will hardly be put to 
the ground. The seat of the malady is soon de- 
clared. In a short space a tumor displays itself; it 
is small, hot, tender, and soft, in the first instance, 
though it soon enlarges, and grows very hard. The 
animal does not exhibit much constitutional distress, 
for it requires excessive pain to call forth such a dis- 
play in the patient and most enduring horse. 

Physic is necessary in this case ; a gentle blood-letting, 
even, may be required, followed by a few doses of febrifuge 
medicine ; but the treatment should be carried no further 
than is necessary to reduce the pulse to fifty-five degrees. 
The leg should be wrapped in a stout linen bandage ; day 
and night the part should be saturated with the coldest 
possible water until the primary symptoms have abated. 
Cut grass should be the food while any fever rages, but no 
longer, for the wish is not to destroy the powers. of repara- 
tion by weakening the body. The cold water should be 
continued till recovery appears confirmed ; but it will be 
many months before the horse, thus disabled, will again be 
fit for full or energetic work. Commonly, however, this 
accident takes place in the hunting-field ; and sportsmen. 




THE EARLIEST SYMPTOM OF 
CLAP OP THE BACK SIN- 
EWS, OR SEVERE SPRAIN 
OF THE TENDON. 




THE BLEMISH 
LEFT BT CLAP 
OF THE BACK 
SINEWS. 



SPRAIN OF THE BACK SINEWS. 



303 



silly as may be their amusements, are no niggards. If they occasionally 
injure a horse, they will spare no expense that can aid its restoration ; 
and a summer's rest may not be thrown away upon the favorite which 
has met with such a mishap. However, the mark will remain for life — 
an obvious swelling will, during existence, denote the place where clap 
occurred to the back sinews. 




SPRAIN OF THE BACK SINEWS. 

Sprain of the back sinews of the hind legs is very general among ani- 
mals which have to perform slow work upon hilly roads. People in the 
carrier trade can afford to bestow small attention upon 
the lameness which does not incapacitate. Every jour- 
ney, however, aggravates the disease. The horse works 
on till his owner is told by the blacksmith the animal's 
legs are contracting, and higher calkins are given as 
a cure. 

At length, however, calkins become of no use. The 
work continues, and the disease progresses. The posi- 
tion of the foot is now so altered, that the smith dis- 
covers his office is unable to render the animal useful. 
Perhaps these circumstances would little affect the 
owner, but the horse evidently loses power. At first it 
is longer on the road. The passengers grumble at the 
delay, (for country carriers reap no little profit by car- 
rying passengers ;) and the driver, flog as he may, can 
oblige the horse to move no faster. Excessive beating is apt to provoke 
pity ; and every word of pity which is lavished on the evidently eager 
animal is distasteful to the carrier, who vents his anger 
upon the wretched cause of all "this rumpus." 

At last the horse cannot guide the cart down hill, 
even when lightly loaded. Assistance is at first pro- 
cured ; but very soon the assistant has to do all the labor. 
The proprietor cannot imagine what ails his horse ; it 
keeps getting worse and worse. He takes the animal 
to a farrier. Remedies — oils and blisters — are applied 
to DO effect. A veterinary surgeon is consulted, and 
the master learns that the only hope left him lies in 
division of the tendons of the hind leg. — (See oper- 
ation.) 

When a cart-horse's heel heightens, always attend to 
the back sinews. Feel them gently, to discover if one place is more 



HIGH CALKINS. 

Tlie earliest atten- 
tion commonly paid 
to sprain of tlie back 
sinews of the hind 
leg. 




THE SURE RESULT OP 
COXTINCED WORK AF- 
TER STRAIN OP THE 
BACK TENDONS. 



304 BREAKING DOWN. 

tender, harder, softer, or slightly warmer, than the rest. Should this 
not succeed, pinch them hard, and run the fingers down them, marking 
the part at which the animal flinches. Healthy tendon will endure any 
amount of pressure ; diseased tendon is acutely sensitive. Having dis- 
covered the locality of the injury, order the hair to be cut short. Put a 
linen bandage round the lesion, and see that it is constantly kept wet ; 
but do not expect a speedy cure. Those structures which are slow to 
exhibit disease are always tardy in resigning it. Bone and tendon are 
of this kind. 

Therefore do not expect any relief before three months have expired, 
and it will certainly be six months before the horse is fit to resume labor. 
Do not blister, bleed, seton, or fire : these things are expensive, and 
occupy much time. Have patience. Grant the time which the supposed 
specifics would employ, and the effect, with or without their use, is very 
likely to be the same. The only remedy for a badly-contracted tendon 
is an operation, and to that subject the reader is referred. 

The horse, however, which has been subjected to such a remedy will 
never be fit for its former uses. No art can restore the primary strength 
of nature, although human intelligence may arrest the progress of dis- 
ease. The thought, that the consequences of ill treatment are not always 
to be eradicated, should surely induce greater care of that property 
which, once lost to man, can never be replaced. 

When a tendinous structure is injured, the best treatment is gentle- 
ness and patience. Blisters, setons, etc. can only change an acute dis- 
order into a chronic deformity. Entire rest, with such applications as 
ease the attendant agony, and a sympathy that can afford to wait upon 
a tardy restoration, are better than all pretended specifics. 

BREAKING DOWN. 

Breaking down is the severest injury which the tendons can endure. 
In proof of this may be cited the general notion that, when a racer 
breaks down, some of the back sinews are ruptured. This, however, 
does not often occur ; but though the tendons are, generally, only se- 
verely sprained, some of the finer tissues, which enter into the composi- 
tion of the leg, are in all cases actually sundered. 

The animal is at its full pace — doing its utmost, and delighting its 
rider, who feels confident of coming in first. Instantaneously the horse 
loses the power of putting one fore leg to the ground. The jockey 
knows what has taken place. He flings himself from the saddle, and 
hastily glances at the animal's foot. It probably is distorted ; or, per- 
chance, the accident may have taken effect higher up, and the injury 



BREAKING DOWN. 



305 



merely be severe clap of the back sinews. Be it which it may, with a 
heavy heart at loss of money and credit, thus suddenly snatched from 
him, the jockey leads the horse toward the stand, or, by the shortest 
road, to the stable. 




BREAKING DOWN. 



Many horses, after encountering this accident, are instantly shot. The 
poor animals, by such a proceeding, are saved from a painful cure and 
a crippled existence. Such conduct is, however, seldom actuated by 
thoughts of mercy. Nevertheless, to an animal of motion, 
whose every feeling is displayed by means of its limbs, and 
which is instinctively more perfect in action than the most 
accomplished ballet-master, the incumbrance of a leg mis- 
shapen, callous, and unwieldy, must be a serious affliction. 
The limb is spoiled for life in the horse which has broken 
down. The pain in time departs ; the breathing becomes 
quiet ; the pulse sinks to the normal point ; the appetite 
returns, and the spirits grow to be as high as ever. But 
no art can replace the structures which have been disorgan- 
ized ; and the limb, after everything approaching to inflam- 
mation has subsided, remains a huge, unsightly object — an 
affliction to its possessor. 

The treatment of breaking down has not been much experimented 
with. However, constitutional measures are, at first, imperative. At 
the same time, a bandage should be applied to the injured limb, and this 
bandage should be kept constantly wet with cold water. A high-heeled 

20 




THE CONSEQUENCE 
OF " BREAKINlJ 
DOWN" IN THE 
HORSE. 



306 CURB. 

shoe should be put on as soon as may be possible-; but no treatment can 
hope to restore the horse to its departed agility, or eVen to fit it for 
ordinary usefulness. However, should it be a stallion or a mare, it may 
be as valuable as a sounder animal for stud purposes. Accidents are 
not hereditary ; nor is there any reason why the foal of a horse which 
has broken down should not excel the progeny of a more fortunate sire. 
Among racers, emasculation not being the general practice, this opinion 
may probably save many a favorite from the doom which a disappointed 
proprietor now too often inflicts. 

CURB. 

This is one of the evils which chiefly are the property of the better 
breed of horses. Man delights to show off the animal he is mounted 
upon. Be it male or female, old or young, the equestrian is always 
pleased by the prancing of the horse. • The creature seems to compre- 
hend, and to derive gratification from obeying the wish of its superior. 
It enters into the desires of its dictator, without a thought of prudence 
or a care for its personal safety. In hunting or in racing, the simple 
horse more than shares the excitement of its rider, and often encounters 
the severest accidents in consequence of these amusements. That which 
is pastime to man frequently proves death to his amiable servant. Often 
is the animal so maimed by these sports as to necessitate its life being 
taken upon the course or in the field. 

These reflections are very painful to any body who appreciated the 
loving and devoted character of the quadruped. Among 
the least of its suff'erings probably may be reckoned curb, 
although the mark of the affection nearly always remains 
for life, and the misfortune sometimes quite disables the 
horse which incurs it. It consists of an enlargement, 
or a gradual bulging out, at the posterior of the hock. 
There is some dispute about the seat of curb. The 
A CURB. author examined a hock which had chronic curb, and 

found the perforan tendon disorganized. The late Mr. 
W. Percival (the respected originator of the very best work upon the 
horse and its diseases which is extant in the English language) also 
inspected a hock, and found the sheath of the tendon more involved than 
the tendon itself. However, a slight acquaintance with the mystery of 
anatomy assures us that the tendon must have been stretched when the 
sheath was injured, since the first invests and is inserted into the last. 
It is well known that synovial membrane is far more sensitive than ten- 
don. It is therefore probable that the membrane would exhibit disease 




CURB. 



SOT 



before the tendon displayed the slightest symptom of being affected. 
The membrane is also capable of displaying the signs of injury long 
after every trace may have disappeared from the tendon itself. 

The effect of the treatment at present adopted is to confirm the 
enlargement, or to change the swelling into a lump of callus, which will 
accompany the sufferer to its death. Curbs are said to be the inherit- 
ances of animals of a certain conformation. Horses born with what are 
termed curby hocks are asserted to be much exposed to this kind of 
accident. The author has, for many years, particularly inspected animals 
of this description; and he never recollects to have seen a curb upon a 
hock of that peculiar conformation. To be sure, no man is likely to 
select either a hunter or a racer from a tribe thus bearing upon their 
limbs the signs of weakness. The creatures are consequently exempted 
from the great provocatives of the accident. However, that the reader 
may fully comprehend what is meant by a curby hock, one is here repre- 
sented, together with a sound or naturally-formed, clean joint. 





A CLEAN HOCE. 



A CnRBT HOCK, SLIGHTLY 
BULGING OUT BEHIND. 




The custom of blistering a horse the instant a curb appears is most 
injurious. Harm is done, in every point of view, by 
such a habit. The animal should have a high-heeled 
shoe put on immediately, so as to ease the overstrained 
tendon. The part ought then to be kept constantly wet 
with cold water, so as to lower or disperse the inflam- 
mation. It should not be blistered, to heat and increase 
the vascularity of the structures. A cloth, doubled 
twice or thrice, is easily kept upon the hock by means 
of an India-rubber bandage, of the form delineated in 
the accompanying engraving. Such a cloth, so placed, 
is afterward to be made constantly cool and wet. 

This treatment should be continued ; the animal being confined to the 
stall and made to move as little as possible, until the heat and swelling 
are diminished and the leg is almost sound. The part being quite cool, 
a blister should then be rubbed all over the joint ; and with that this 
treatment, in the great majority of cases, is ended. On no account 



AN INDIA-RUBBER 
BANDAGE, FOR KEEP- 
ING WET CLOTHS 
UPON A CURB. 



308 



OCCULT SPAVIN. 




■THE LINES MADE, FOR SOME 
IMAGINARY BENEFIT, 'WITH 
A HEATED IRON, UPON THE 
HOCK OF A HORSE HAVING 
CURB. 



should any man allow his horse's hock to be fired for curb. This is 
a very general practice ; but the author has never witnessed any good 
result therefrom. He has, however, seen much 
agony ensue upon the custom. The form of the 
marks perpetuated upon the skin of a living creat- 
ure is shown herewith, and were plainly visible in 
the case of curb, which the writer dissected. 

Pulling horses up on their haunches is asserted 
to be a frequent cause of curb ; yet curb is not an 
accident commonly met with among those animals 
which drag London carriages. These creatures are 
being constantly thrown upon their haunches, it 
being, by ladies, considered "very pretty and very 
dashing" to make their servants tug at the reins, regardless of the living 

mouths on which these operate. 

'rr = Pulling suddenly up, however 

objectionable for other reasons, 
does not seem to induce curb, 
as London carriage horses are 
all but free from that affection. 
The disease is mainly caused 
by uneven ground wrenching 
the limb; by galloping at the 
topmost speed ; by prancing 
when mounted, or by leap- 
ing when after the hounds. 
Perhaps more curbs are to be 
seen in a district on which 
several packs are kept, than in any other part of the country. 




THE SUREST MANNER OP PRODUCING CURB, 



OCCULT SPAVIN. 

The horse is subject to many fearful maladies, but to none which is 
more terrible than ulceration between the bones composing the joints. 
Synovial membrane, cartilage, and bone are without sensation during 
health. The author hopes his reader is not conscious of a bone in his 
body ; it is also wished that he may read with surprise, that the ends of 
bones are covered with cartilage, and that many are invested with syno- 
vial membrane. As has already been observed, these structures in health 
are not sensitive ; but when disease starts up, be it only the slightest 
blush of inflammation, the acutest anguish is thereby occasioned. 

Ulceration of the joints is, unfortunately, rather common among 



OCCULT SPAVIN. 309 

horses; the animal, while being ridden, usually drops suddenly lame. 
It has trodden on a rolling stone, or made a false step, or put its foot 
into some hole, and injured the bone. After a little time, continuance 
of the impaired gait causes the rider to dismount ; nothing is to be 
found in the foot, yet the animal is taken to the stable decidedly lame. 
The foot is searched, the limb is examined, pressure, even of the hardest 




THE EXTENT TO 'WHICH THE LEO IS CAUGHT UP WHEN OCCULT SPAVIN EXISTS ; ALSO THE VIEW OF THE FOOT 
PRESENTED TO THE SPECTATOR WHO IS PLACED AT THE SIDE OF THE HORSE, WHEN, DURING THIS DIS- 
EASE, THE LEO IS IN MOTION. 

kind, is endured with provoking complacency. No heat or swelling can 
be discovered; but one thing is to be discerned, the lameness is most 
emphatic. After some time, a peculiarity in the trot may be remarked ; 
the lame foot hardly touches the earth before it is snatched up again, 
and that very energetically. Then, closer observation notes that the 
leg, when flexed, is always carried in a direct line, as it is when display- 
ing the symptoms of bony spavin. The hoof is never even partially 
turned outward. Still, neither of these traits is always displayed in 
so prominent a manner as to force attention ; frequently, a conclusion is 
to be drawn only from negative testimony — as the duration of the lame- 
ness, the soundness of the foot, and the perfect condition of the tendons ; 
these evidences, taken with the suddenness of the complaint, cause the 
practitioner to comprehend he has a case of occult spavin under treat- 
ment. 

Such is the origin of the disease : some authors assert the synovial 
membrane has been ruptured; some, on the contrary, say the bone has 
been injured. The author, knowing nothing, cannot tell how the disease 
begins, but he knows that from the date of its origin the horse is lame ; 
very bad one day, but better, probably, the next. Generally improved 
after rest, and always badly limping subsequent to work; never to be 
depended upon, for proprietors say the animal is sure, wherever its ser- 
vices are required, to be obstinately lame. 

Usually the wretched horse is blistered; setoned; blistered again; 
and, at last, fired. All failing to do the smallest good, the horse is next 
turned out for three months; while at grass, the poor animal, with an 
acutely diseased joint, which is enlarged and stiffened by mistaken treat- 



310 OCCULT SPAVIN. 

ment, hau to take one step for every morsel it bites. of poor and watery 
food. It ii3 forced to travel long and far, or literally to starve ; its body 
must rest upon the ulcerated bone, and the weight even be increased by 
the pendulous head before enough herbage can be cropped to sustain the 
life. At every step two ulcerated surfaces grate upon each other and 
are forced violently together ; while anguish consumes the flesh, the 
nature of the food may keep in the life, but cannot otherwise than 
depress the spirits. Besides, the hox'se has been turned from a sheltered 
stall where it was daily groomed, into a field where it has to brave the 
utmost stress of the elements, uncared for and unnoticed. 

At the end of three months the horse is taken up : to the master's 
disgust, it is found to be not looking smarter and not to be going 
sounder. More routine treatment is now permitted, and the diseased 
limb undergoes further torture ; another three months is passed, and the 
lameness becomes worse than ever. The proprietor is loath to part with 
his property; but he often says "he wishes the animal were dead." At 
last, losing all patience, and never having possessed any care for the life 
which had suffered injury in his service, the horse is lent to some carter, 
who undertakes to "work it sound." This process never, in occult spavin, 
succeeds ; the wretched quadruped gets worse day by day, till neither 
oaths nor lashes can prevent misery from limping on three legs. 

At length, worked to a skeleton, the horse is returned to its propri- 
etor, who, inviting pity upon his misfortune, that life will feel, and that 
horse-flesh is subject to the ailments affecting all creatures which breathe, 
orders his servant to take "the beast" to the knacker's and to get what 
he can for it. 

Such is the history of ulcerated joint. All joints are exposed to 
ulceration ; every bone in the fore and hind leg may be thus affected. 
The small bones of the hock are those most commonly diseased; when- 
ever this is the case, the only termination which can reasonably be hoped 
for is that the inflamed surfaces may be united. The bones are then 
bound together by osseous union, and are, of course, firmly locked; 
they are no longer capable of the slightest movement one upon the 
other; but this is no vast evil: many animals are now at work having 
the smaller bones firmly united by osseous deposit. Horses in that con- 
dition are far from useless, even for the highest purposes. 

The man whose animal gets ulceration of the hock-joint ought to 
allow the injured quadruped even twelve months of uninterrupted rest. 
The first thing is to get the sufferer into slings ; the earlier this is done 
the better; it takes off the weight from the affected joint, relieves the 
pain, and gives the system full opportunity to rectify the lesson. To 
draw blood to the part and so promote deposit, rub in, once every two 



OCCULT SPAVIN. 



311 



days, some of the embrocation recommended in the article on " Rheu- 
matism," which is thus composed: of soap liniment, sixteen ounces; 
liquor ammonia, tincture of cantharides, and of laudanum, of each two 
ounces. There need be no fear of applying friction; the utmost press- 
ure made upon an ulcerated joint can call forth no response. When 
the joint is embrocated, wrap the part loosely in flannel, using an elastic 
webbing to fasten the portion above and below the hocli, and not tying 
any fastening around the painfully-diseased member^ give three feeds of 
corn, a few old beans, and sweet hay for each dayV support, while the 
treatment lasts. 

The improvement will be denoted by the animal Jaearing upon the 
affected limb ; after three months or longer, the slings may be removed ; 
in another three months, the horse, should the pace be sound, may per- 
form gentle work. However, the first three months must be reckoned 
from the date when the animal commenced to bear continuously on the 
ulcerated joint ; in short, the slings are not to be removed until long 
after the quadruped has, by its carriage, declared them to be useless. 
Then, for the three subsequent months, the work must not be violent.; 
time should be allowed for the ufflon to be confirmed, for, among the 
many diseases the horse is exposed to, there is not one more treacherous 
or more liable to relapse than occult spavin. 

Such is all that is necessary for the treatment of this disorder ; rest — 
perfect rest, with food capable of supporting nature in the reparative pro- 
cess — is everything which is absolutely necessary. A loose 
box even does injury, so entire must be the rest, which 
should be as near to stagnation as it is possible to make 
it. The embrocation is simply recommended to draw 
blood to the part, and promote the required deposition. 
One caution only is necessary — give no purgative ; keep 
the bowels regular by means of cut grass and bran 
mashes. 

If the above measures fail, as in the majority of cases 
they certainly will, nevertheless good will have been done 
by abating the violence of the ulcerative process. Before 
the last resort of all is adopted, another chance remains, 
which, as an experiment, is justifiable. Puncture the 
joint — a very small incision will be required ; have the 
limb forcibly retracted or pulled backward ; then inject, 
with a syringe having a fine point, about one ounce of 
dilute spirits of wine, in which is dissolved half a drachm 
of iodine. Immediately aftei'ward place the animal in slings, and apply 
cold water to the hock by means of the India-rubber bandage described 




THE DISEASED 
BOXES OF TnB 
HOCK. TUEDARK 
PLACE INDICATES 
■WHERE THE UL- 
CERATION 13 GO- 
ING FORWARD. 



312 RHEUMATISM. 

in the preceding article. Keep the horse liberally so soon as the pulse . 
becomes quiet, and do not allow it to leave bondage till the tread is 
firm ; as exercise is endured, work may be very gradually resumed. 

Remember, the above is proposed only as a last experiment ; the 
design is to change the ulcerative action to one of a secretive character, 
and thereby promote union of the diseased bones. A trial of this kind 
has never been instituted ; but, certainly, judging from the result of a 
similar operation upon the human subject, there are the best grounds for 
anticipating good effects. That it may be known where to make the 
puncture, a drawing made from the bones of a diseased hock is inserted 
on page 311 ; the darker line marks the place where the ulcerated sur- 
faces existed, and into which the fluid should be injected. This, how- 
ever, is so nice an operation that, although unattended with any imme- 
diate danger, none but a skilled anatomist should undertake it. In 
proper and judicious hands it is perhaps as safe, and more likely to be 
accompanied with benefit than the great majority of veterinary remedies. 

RHEUMATISM. 

This form of disease in the horse is commonly known as following 
more serious affections. After influenza it is very frequent ; it is not 
rare as coming in the train of thoracic disorders ; most important organs, 
being acutely affected, will leave it behind them. On rare occasions it 
may appear without any forerunner. 

Its advent is announced by swelling about the joints, accompanied by 
the most painful lameness ; the animal may not dai'e to put its foot to 
the ground. Often the disease flies about, now seizing upon one or two 
joints, next attacking the hitherto free members, and generally clinging 
to similar parts, as the hocks, knees, etc. Then it will return to its 
former abode — thus shifting about, to the torture of the animal and the 
confusion of him who may undertake its relief 

One almost constant symptom is an increase of synovia. For synovial 
membrane, whether in the sheaths of tendons or on the heads of bones, 
rheumatism always displays a marked partiality. This structure is, as 
has been already noticed, without sensation during health ; in disease, 
however, its involvement communicates extreme agony. The afflicted 
horse stands with difficulty ; its pulse and its breathing declare its suf- 
ferings — both are quick and jerking ; the limbs may be greatly swollen ; 
and the parts secreting joint-oil bulged out, soft, and puffy, from the 
increase of their contents. 

No disease is accompanied with such long and extreme pain as rheu- 
matism ; the remedies, therefore, should be quick and effective. Procure 



RHEUMATISM. 



313 




THE STEAMING APPARATUS USED IN 
BRONCHITIS. 



the steaming apparatus recommended for bronchitis ; fill the warm, loose 
box, into which the horse should be brought, with vapor ; while that is 
being accomplished, get ready the slings ; 
put the belly-piece under the animal, and fix 
them so as not to take the entire bearing 
from the ground, but so as to relieve the dis- 
eased joints of some portion of their burden, 
and allow the horse to rest its body when it 
is disposed to repose. 

Keep up the steam for one hour ; at the 
end of that period, have several men ready 
with dry cloths — wisps would be too excit- 
ing ; let the men wipe the horse quite dry, 
with as little noise and as much speed as 
possible. This over, order some of the as- 
sistants to put on the hood and clothing, also wrapping the sound limbs 
in flannel ; the disengaged helpers are to go upon their knees and rub 
into and about the seat of disorder a liniment thus composed : — 

Compound soap liniment Sixteen ounces. 

Liquor of ammonia Two ounces. 

Tincture of cantharides Two ounces. 

Tincture of opium Two ounces. 

When the liniment has been applied, incase the affected limbs in 
warm flannel. 

Many persons are at a loss to comprehend this last direction ; it is 
easily accomplished. Have ready some rings of elastic webbing to fasten 
over the members ; also procure four pieces of flannel, each rather more 
than the length of a limb. To the small ends of two pieces of flannel, 
one yard and a half long, attach a band of broad, elastic webbing, and 
fix a buckle and strap at the other terminations ; at similar points of the 
other two pieces of flannel, only these last are to be two yards long, like- 
wise fix broad elastic bands, and also append a buckle and strap. Place 
the long pieces of flannel by the hind limbs ; put the shorter flannels by 
the fore legs ; buckle the straps, the fore ones over the withers, and the 
hind straps over the loins. This will keep the flannel up to its proper 
height ; fasten it with the rings of elastic webbing to the hoofs, while 
the assistants are wrapping it loosely round the limbs. 

The horse being in the slings, no surcingle can be put on, nor is any 
needed. The animal with acute rheumatism is certain to stand quiet 
enough. So much being accomplished, give the horse a bolus formed 
of powdered colchicum, two drachms ; iodide of potassium, one drachm ; 
simple mass, a sufficiency. 



314 



KHEUMATISM. 



These measures are to be taken regardless of the condition of the 
body ; if the attack, however, follow another disease, the bodily support 
laust not be too low. It should be all prepared or softened by the 
action of heat and water ; the oats should be of the best description ; 




^/.-^•«^ awn gl > 

A HOESE DRESSED FOB EHEUMATISM. 

they should be crushed and boiled ; a few old beans, also boiled, may be 
added, and a malt mash occasionally will do no harm. To open the 
bowels, and likewise to allay excitement, give green-meat when required; 
but do not make a practice of allowing this sort of food in quantity, as 
it blows the animal out, weakens the digestion, and soon loses all laxa- 
tive effect. 

Next morning repeat the steaming, etc., and give a ball composed of 
a scruple of calomel and two drachms of opium ; allow only five pounds 
of hay during the day. At night, again steam, etc., and give the ball 
which was recommended on the first occasion. 

When the horse begins to bear upon its legs, should the liniment not 
have blistered the joints, the following may be applied with a soft brush, 
but without friction : — 

Tincture of cantharides One ounce. 

Camphorated oil Half an ounce. 

Tincture of opium Half an ouuce. 

The horse may be of a full habit when affected ; in that case, pursue 
the measures already recommended, but do not give the food before 
advised ; instead, allow bran mashes twice a week, and a bundle of green- 
meat once a day, and sweet hay must make up the sustenance for twenty- 



WIND-GALLS. 315 

four hours. Should the horse, however, appear to lose flesh and spirit, 
boiled corn must form a portion of the diet, and the quantity can be 
regulated only by him who has charge of the case. 

One caution must be given before concluding this article. A sick 
animal is very sensitive as to noises ; a door banged to will excite the 
terror of the poor creature, which, probably, was half asleep, with the 
head hanging down. A loud word or an energetic action will not unsel- 
dom call forth symptoms of such alarm as may threaten, through their 
utter recklessness, to demolish the structure in which the horse is con- 
fined. For these, if from no purer motives, respect the sufferings and 
wisely try to soothe the animal. As the creature is devoid of reason to 
shape its fears, approach it noiselessly ; speak softly at first ; ascertain — 
although the eye be closed — by the motion of the ears, whether your 
voice is heard. Then lay the hand upon the neck and gently caress the 
sick body ; after that you may do what you please, so nothing be very 
sudden or very loud. 

Such slight considerations will not be thrown away, even in a medical 
point of view. A moment of excitement may do the injury which no 
physic will remove; nay, in critical stages, many a life has been lost 
from want of thought in the attendants about a diseased horse. 

DISTENTION OF SYNOVIAL MEMBRANE— WIND-GALLS. 

Man treats the horse after a strange fashion. He buys the animal for 
a large sum, because it possesses some particular quality; but, hardly 
has he obtained it, before he behaves as though he desired only to 
destroy the property he has so dearly purchased. A horse, for private 
use, is generally bought for its beauty ; in a short time afterward it is 
sold as having become too deformed for its master's service. A year or 
two commonly suffices to spoil the most perfect animal. Many are 
ruined in their colthood ; many more are made worthless by the trainer. 
Of all creation, the horse is most abused. So universal is this custom 
that the marks of ill usage are in the market even regarded as if they 
were natural consequences. Those affections designated wind-galls are 
generally lightly esteemed by most horsemen when the animal is required 
for actual service — as hunting, racing, coaching, etc. 

Such marks, however, are evidences of hard work having been per- 
formed. They are not natural formations; but are blemishes, which 
man, in his consideration for a dumb servant, is pleased to make light 
of. They do not generally impede the action — and lameness is the only 
fact a true horseman cares to notice. He will not stay to inquire what 
must have been the kind of work which could occasion the synovial 



316 WIND-GALLS. 

membrane to bulge out upon a living body. He does not care to ask 
whether Nature, when deformity first appeared, instituted the fact with- 
out intention. He will not condescend to question whether' every un- 
natural appearance is not designed to be a warning. But he views wind- 
galls rather as a proof that the poor animal exhibiting them is a seasoned 
horse, and, therefore, is bettered by the distortion of a sensitive structure. 
Wind-galls are the result of severe work. The back sinews are incased 
in a fine sheath which contains synovia, or, as it is commonly termed, 
"joint oil." The use of the synovia is to facilitate the motions of the 
two great flexor tendons one upon the other ; so, when the pace is too 
fast or the labor too energetic, the delicate membrane which secretes the 
synovia becomes irritated. The consequence of irritation is increased 
secretion. More joint oil is poured forth than the natural sac can con- 
tain. The membrane, therefore, bags out at those parts which are 
weakest. Two such places are situated above the fetlock and one below 
it. The localities, with the size of the tumors, as they generally are 
exhibited, the reader will find delineated in the following engravings. 





THE SITUATIONS AND SHAPES OF WIND-GALLS. WIND-GALLS, AS THET APPEARED TO THE 

AUTHOR, UPON DISSECTION. 

Wind-galls generally appear on the hind leg. They used to be re- 
garded as swollen bursas; but Mr. Varnell, Assistant Professor at the 
Royal Yeterinary College, by careful dissection, first pointed out their 
real character. He proved them to be synovial enlargements ; and the 
writer, benefiting by Mr. Yarnell's instruction, has verified the fact. 

Yery slight physiological knowledge was required to detect they were 
not bursse. Bursse are little round sacs, secreting a fluid like synovia, 
but always placed so as to facilitate motion. Now, wind-galls appear 
close to a synovial sheath ordained to serve the same purpose. They, 
moreover, start up in the hollow between the flexor tendons and the 
suspensory ligament, in which arteries, veins, nerves, and absorbents 
reside. The merit in discovering they had been misnamed was, per- 



WIND-GALLS. 



317 




THE DISAPPEARANCE OP WIND-GALLS 
AND THE PUFFINESS OF THE SYNO- 
VIAL MEMBRANE, PROPER TO THE 
FLEXOR TENDONS, WHICH ENSUES 
UPON EXCESSIVE LABOR. 



haps, small ; but the credit of demonstrating what they actually were — 
which demanded a more elevated talent — remains with Mr. Yarnell. 

Wind-galls are fond of the hind leg; or rather, the hinder limbs do 
the heaviest portion of the ht)rse's work; there- 
fore these deformities are commonly found on 
those members. There may be one or three 
on both sides of each leg: they generally are 
quiescent; but occasionally they prove wind- 
galls to be something more than the simple 
blemishes which man is pleased to esteem them. 
After a hard run it is not unusual to hear a 
huntsman complain that the wind-galls have 
disappeared and the back sinews of his hunter 
have become puffy. When that occurs, the 
entire sheath suffers excessive irritation, and 
has enlarged. The horse is then very lame, 
but a day or two of rest reduces the sudden 
enlargement, and the animal recovers its sound- 
ness. 

Sometimes, however, repeated irritation starts 
up a new action ; the secretion becomes turbid, displays enormous float- 
ing threads of cartilage and occasional sanguineous infiltration ; the sac 
enlarges ; the walls begin to thicken ; the tumor feels less pulpy and more 
•firm; it grows harder. First becomes cartilage, and ultimately may be 
converted into bone. Mr. Gowing, of Camden Town, has a fine spe- 
cimen of this species of disease. 

During these changes the animal is very lame ; yet wind-galls are so 
lightly esteemed by horsemen as scarcely to lessen the price of a steed ; 
they are, in general, accounted hardly worth mentioning, although men 
have been known to be strangely anxious to have them removed. This, 
however, is not easy to bring about ; all the common methods are worse 
than useless; the only treatment which promises any benefit is the appli- 
cation of pressure. Fold a piece of soft rag several times ; saturate the 
rag with water; lay upon the wetted rag one drachm each of opium 
and of camphor; put these upon the enlargement. Upon the moistened 
rag place a piece of cork big enough to cover the wind-gall, and of such 
a thickness as may be necessary; above the cork lace on a vulcanized 
India-rubber bandage. Constant and equal pressure will by these 
means be kept up ; however, mind the groom be strictly ordered to 
take the bandage off the leg the last thing when the horse leaves 
the stable, and to put it on again immediately on the animal's return ; 
otherwise, the proprietor may chance to enter the building and find his 



318 BOG SPAVIN. 

steed without an application, which, to be beneficial, should be per- 
petually worn. 

Such is the history and the occasional termination of wind-galls. What 
kind of man is he who, when purchasing a' horse, can confidently assert 
the animal will not exhibit the worst stage of the affection ? A horse 
displaying wind-galls is prepared for the advent of the more serious form 
of disease ; still, horsemen will persist in deeming synovial enlargements 
a trivial affair, when seen in the body of a creature whose utility resides 
in its power to move the limbs with agility. 

BOG SPAVIN. 

Bogc spavin is a mark which man makes to signalize his authority over 
breathing flesh ; man, in his stupidity, will form notions of what animals 
should be; he will not learn from nature. Thus the horse, which is 
made up of timidity and affection, he loves to chronicle as fierce, fiery, 
noble, and courageous ; he talks largely of having mastered such or such 
a creature; he boasts highly of having laid whip and spur to a "brute" 
which, had he courted with gentleness, and wooed with sympathy, 
might not have been subdued so quickly, but assuredly would have been 
attached to him for life. 

The hocks suffer severely through such erroneous opinions. These 
convictions are widely spread and influence every horseman ; they con- 
trol the breaker, who acts as though he had a wild beast to conquer into' 
a show of submission, not to train a living animal which is naturally 
willing, only afraid to submit. Instead of courting such a being, the 
bit, the lash, and the cold steel are brought to bear upon a frame every 
fiber of which already quivers with alarm; many a colt, consequently, 
is ruined by the breaker. The creature is pulled up with a tug at the 
Veins; and pain never yet enlightened an understanding; the horse is 
forced to do what he would cheerfully perform, if man 
would only take necessary trouble to communicate his 
wishes to a creature which, not comprehending words, 
is naturally somewhat slow to interpret heavy chas- 
tisement. 

The breaker, however, is considered equal to his 
office, if he be a light weight and a very resolute man. 
^"iioN^'orTM PB^NcIprL '^^^^ young colt is sprained and jarred in every possible 
SYNOVIAL MEMBRANE mauner : it is at last returned to its master more than 

OF THE HOCK-JOINT. ' 

half broken — in the literal sense — for the seeds have been 
sown which, in time, will assuredly crop into a host of virulent diseases. 
This affection is an increase of synovia in the upper or chief joint of 




THOROUGH-PIN. 319 

the hock ; it lies upon the most inward and forward portion of that part. 
The increase of the contents causes the membrane to bulge out after the 
manner represented in the wood-cut on page 318. 

It is produced by repeated shocks to the limb, and in this respect 
resembles wind-galls; though situated in a different locality, it is also 
liable to the same changes. In short, the affections are the same, and 
are dissimilar only with regard to their relative situation. 

Bog spavin is thought slightly of by professed horsemen ; however, 
the reader must ask himself, if it be viewed as no deterioration, can it 
be also regarded as a recommendation ? Is a blemished leg, or a limb 
with disease, which is liable to assume an aggravated type, properly 
considered a sound member? The writer thinks not. Bog spavin does 
not, in its ordinary stage, lame the horse; but can such an unnatural 
enlargement add to the pleasure of the animal's existence ? Were pain 
in man judged of entirely as it affected the walk of the human being, the 
disorders of how many people would the doctor esteem of little conse- 
quence ! Such a standard of agony is ridiculous. It is most difficult 
to say when no anguish is felt by the life which is denied the faculty of 
announcing its sensations through the medium of speech. 

THOROUGH-PIN. 

This disease is so called, because in some cases it pierces right through 
the thinnest part of the hind leg, or appears on either side immediately 
before the point of the hock. It, however, is often 
single. It is rarely present without bog spavin ; and 
in every instance which the author has examined, it 
communicated with the large synovial articulation of 
the joint. 

It is provoked by the same causes as generate bog 
spavin ; it is similar to that disorder in not being 
generally accompanied by lameness, and in being liable 
to the same fearful changes. Pressure and rest are the 
best remedies; pressure, applied after the manner recommended for 
wind-galls, may in some cases answer. The bog spavin and the 
thorough-pin, however, should not in every case be treated at the same 
time ; as a general rule, it is prudent only to attack one affection by 
means of an India-rubber bandage. This should be so cut as to release 
the bog spavin from all pressure ; and where the slightest uneasiness is 
evinced, all bandages should be instantly removed, while the corks and 
cloths — employecf as for wind-galls — are taken off the thorough-pin. 

It is never well to attempt to cure the bog spavin first ; the treatment 




THOEOUGII-PIX. 



320 THOROUGH-PIN. 

ought always to commence with the thorough-pin ; therefore, for a horse 
which will not endure the bandage, a truss must be procured from the 
instrument-maker. The truss is of the ordinary description, only adapted 
to bear upon the parts. This will probably act with efficacy equal to 
the bandage. When the truss has performed its office, then a perfect 
India-rubber bandage may be safely applied. Only, mind and also 
employ with the last the corks* and cloths; else, when endeavoring to 
remove one disorder, you may reproduce another. Watch the animal 
while wearing the bandage ; on the slightest change, either in habit or 
appearance, remove the India-rubber. Should the pressure affect the 
skin, (as it will in certain cases,) rags, thoroughly wetted, should be 
wrapped round the hock before lacing the bandage up. If the rags 
appear to be of no avail, it is better to forbear for a time, and to renew 
the attempt hereafter. 

The horse which exhibits bog spavin and thorough-pin also gener- 
ally shows wind-galls on the hind legs. Let the reader consider the 
hard usage the limb must have undergone before 
it could have become thus deranged. Here is a 
specimen, demonstrating the connection which ex- 
ists between thorough-pin and bog spavin. It was 
made in consequence of Mr. Yarnell having in- 
formed the author that thorough-pin was a bulging 
out of the synovial sheath, proper to the flexor 
tendon; and was not, as is generally taught and 
DISSECTION OP THOROUGH-PIN crcdltcd, SHI enlaTgcd bursa. The author found 

AND BOG SPAVIN, DEMON- . 

sTRATiNG THE JUNCTION OF thcm to bc lu accordaucc with the description he 

THE TWO AFFECTIONS. • i ^ 

had received : the enlargement called thorough- 
pin, and the synovial membrane of the hock, had united, and free com- 
munication existed between them, in the joint which the writer examined. 
Nature formed the synovial cavity of the joint as a distinct and 
separate part. It is usual for teachers to promulgate a maxim that 
Nature is all-wise. Man, however, it appears, can violently disarrange 
her provisions ; yet, by his fellow-men, he is accounted to have done no 
wrong who destroys the harmony of Nature. Thorough-pin is not, in 
popular estimation, essentially unsoundness. A horse thus disfigured is 
believed, nay, professionally pronounced to be, perfect, although two dis- 
tinct parts are battered into one. If two are beneficial, why was one 
only created? The horse may not be lame; but, granting Nature to be 
all-wise, must not the uses for which the limb was designed be injured ? 
The question is not, whether an animal trots sound ; but it is, whether 
it really is sound. What sane man would assert suali to be the case, 
where the anatomical structures have been disorganized? 





CAPPED KNEE — CAPPED HOCK. 321 



CAPPED KNEE. 

Capped knee, in the fore limb, answers to bog spavin in the hind leg ; 
the diseases are alike in most respects. Both affect the principal ar- 
ticulation of a complicated joint; both may be provoked by the like 
causes; but the fore leg, being less exposed to shocks than the hinder 
member, must have been much abused before it could become thus 
deformed. 

Blows, also, are common originators of capped knee. This disorder 
is likewise peculiar for a course it takes. The fluid within 
the swollen joint is, upon excitement, secreted in such 
quantity as to tighten the enlargement. Ultimately it 
lames the horse, and at length bulges out, or points, after 
the manner of an abscess. If let alone, it would burst. 
Much of the surrounding parts would have to be absorbed 
or would be effectually destroyed before such a termina- 
tion could ensue. The life would be endangered, or a the synovial mem- 

° BRANE OF THE 

lasting blemish would be left behind. To prevent this, knee-jmnt en- 
the surgeon draws the skin to one side, and, holding the 
point of his lancet upward, opens the capped knee upon its lower sur- 
face. A quantity of synovia, more or less in a turbid state, escapes, 
and an open joint remains. For the treatment of this contingency, the 
reader must turn to " Open Joint." (Injuries.) 

Capped knee is, by certain persons, viewed as a trivial accident. Gen- 
erally, however, it is regarded in a more serious light, because it is more 
conspicuous than bog spavin. We also should object to it, because, 
while liable to the same changes as wind-galls, etc., it is also likely to 
expose the horse to an open joint. It is, like wind-galls and bog spavin, 
to be reduced by pressure, though sometimes pressure will call up aggra- 
vated symptoms. Rest is the best treatment ; during the rest pressure 
may be safely applied. Pressure does not answer, however, while the 
limb is exposed to the irritation of work. The horse must be thrown 
up during treatment, and gently used after the animal has been patched 
up or "cured." 

CAPPED HOCK. 

When an injury is formed near an important part. Nature is so 
conservative of her creature's welfare that she always has some means 
ready to preserve the utility of the structure. Thus when, from exter- 
nal violence, the hock becomes capped, or a swelling like to that rep- 
resented in the following engraving ensues, to prevent the joint being 

21 



322 CAPPED HOCK. 

thrown out of use Nature allows the skin to enlarge. The cap of a hock, 
originally, was a bursa. A bursa is a little bladder or round sac, formed 
of the finest possible membrane, and filled with a fluid similar to joint 
oil. Its use is to facilitate motion ; hence it eases the tightened skin 
over the points of the bony hock. But when it becomes deranged and 
swollen, the skin, which was dense, hard, and solid, stretches so as to 
cover the increase of bulk. 

The tumor, however, having been produced, may in time subside, should 
the injury which provoked it not be repeated. Too often, however, the 
cause springs from motives over which the animal has no control; and 
the violence being renewed again and again, the swelling enlarges, and 
that which was soft and pulpy at first becomes hard to the feel, while all 





CAPPED EOCK. THE LAUQEST SPECIJIEN OP CAPPED HOCK WHICH 

THE AUTHOK HAS MET WITH. 

sensation of fluid disappears. The provocative being repeated, the part 
first grows firm, then solid, while its bulk also enlarges to a fearful mag- 
nitude. There appears to be no limit to the size ; but the largest the 
author has encountered was nineteen inches in its greatest circumference, 
and seriously interfered with progression. Above, on the right hand, is 
a portrait of the tumor. 

These unsightly growths have two causes — the ignorance of the groom 
and the timidity of the animal. To speak of the last first : Dogs will 
dream ; often, as they lie before the fire, they work their legs and utter 
suppressed noises, being at the time soundly asleep. Dogs also have 
imagination. Almost everybody must have remarked the dog slink away 
from some object which is to be indistinctly seen in the dusk of evening. 
Nobody, however, seems to have credited the horse with either of these 
faculties. Because it is of service to man, it is appropriated, and the 
attributes belonging to the creature 'are overlooked ; the groom locks 
the stable door, and, having bedded the horses down, leaves them in the 
dark, "comfortable" for the night. One dreams — awakens in terror, 
similar to that which causes children to start out of their sleep with 
terrible crying. The hind legs are the means of defense with the horse ; 
it has no other, for it seldom, and not habitually, employs its teeth. The 
animal, in alarm, begins kicking, for terror becomes powerful as the 



CAPPED HOCK. 323 

reason diminishes. Animals have passions; these man can, in himself, 
subdue with reason ; but the poor horse has no reason to restrain its 
emotions. Fear, once awakened, unopposed, possesses it ; it begins to 
kick before it knows why. Bodies of men are exposed to panics. Can 
we wonder, therefore, at a timid and unreasoning animal being subject 
to the same influences ? The kicking commenced, terror spreads ; and a 
whole stable full of horses, each chained to its stall, each alone, forbid- 
den the consolation of society, and prevented from scampering from the 
unknown horror, takes up the action ; thus thirty or forty horses may be 
heard, in the depth and darkness of a night, kicking at the same time. 
The hind legs, when forcibly projected, are apt to hit the point of the 
hock ; the bursa there developed is injured by the blow, and a capped 
limb is the consequence. 

Another cause is kicking while in harness. This habit is always 
attributed to vice : to speak of vice as associated with the ideas of a 
simple animal is purely ridiculous. Fear is a much more probable cause, 
if man would only expand his understanding to comprehend the motives 
likely to actuate an unreasoning creature ; vice is far too heroic an 
impulse, far too human a failing, for the horse to embody. Fear is 
essentially an animal passion; that some mighty influence agitates the 
quadruped, when it begins to kick in harness, is proved by the serious 
accidents the horse encounters through this habit. No life can be care- 
less of its own existence ; all creatures are conservatives where their 
own being is concerned. Would mankind only admit this fact, and seek 
to gain the confidence of, as they now labor to establish authority over, 
the horse, gentle words, spoken when the impulse was awakened, might 
reassure the animal, and would thus frequently save the owner from 
impending danger. 

A third cause is lazy drivers riding on cart-horses, when unhooked, 
as leaders of the wagon ; the poles, called spreaders, which keep the 
chains asunder, frequently hang so low that, at every movement of the leg, 
they strike the point of the hock. The uneven paving of some stables 
is likewise said to produce the disease ; in short, anything which may 
cause the point of the calcis to suffer violence will produce a capped hock. 

The cure for capped hock has been differently directed. Some hobble 
the hind legs of the horse, to prevent its kicking in the night ; some 
fasten a chain and a log to one hind limb, for the same purpose ; others 
suspend a piece of loose cloth at the back of the horse ; but the best 
plan is always to leave a lantern lighted in the stable. The power to 
see around reassures timidity, while darkness is an awful instigator of 
terror; horses often fly back in their stalls, but never kick, during 
daylight. 




324 CAPPED ELBOW. 

Then, as to the cure : Sach a tumor, when recent, is hot and somewhat 
painful ; at this time, keep it wet with cold water or with a lotion formed 
of spirits of wine and water in equal parts ; when the tenderness has 
subsided, procure some men who want employment and have strong 
arms ; set these fellows to rub the cap of the hock constantly, and the 
tumor, in three or four days, or in less time, will have disappeared. 

Should the enlargement, however, have become hard, the knife then 
must be employed ; the horse must be cast, and the substance must be 
carefully dissected out without opening the sac. This 
being done, remove none of the skin ; leave that bag- 
ging about the hock ; simply treat it with a lotion 
composed of chloride of zinc one grain, to water one 
ounce, and the integument will contract. Ultimately 
there will remain no more than will be required to 
cover the part, whereas, if any be taken away, the 
luE sKi.v PROM BENEATH wound, whlch lu thcsc cases never heals quickly, will 
SAPPED HOCK hTbeen ^e '^ery long before it closes, and, in proportion to 
EEMovED. ^jjQ g^jjj which has been removed, there will remain a 

lasting blemish. 
There is another caution we have to give the reader before leaving 
this subject ; let no advice persuade, no temptation induce him to punc- 
ture, seton, or merely to open capped hock. The membrane lining the 
swelling is, when diseased, so extremely sensitive that the writer has 
known the lives of animals endangered by these so-called remedies. The 
author, moreover, never knew the enlargement to be much reduced by 
these means ; neither has it been the author's lot to witness much good 
follow the application of blisters. No ; extirpation is the only remedy, 
and it should be accomplished without puncturing the sac ; this is as 
safe an operation as there is in the entire range of veterinary surgery. 
There is neither nerve, muscle, membrane, vessel, nor any important 
structure to avoid ; with ordinary care, the removal is most easy. There 
is but one thing annoying connected with the business, and that is, the 
length of time which the healing of a necessary wound, made upon a 
point of motion, almost invariably occupies. 

CAPPED ELBOW. 

This is very common, especially among cart-horses ; it is attributed to 
the calkin of the fore foot; to the point of the hind hoof; or to a 
stable floor, thinly bedded, and composed of sharp stones. So, like- 
wise, blows with the butt-end of the whip will induce it; but the harness 
probably guards the elbow, which therefore can be struck only in excep- 
tional cases. 




A CAPPED ELBOW. 



LUXATION OF THE PATELLA. 325 

It consists of a bursa, which, as in the former instance, has been 
injured, and has consequently enlarged; in appearance and in its subse- 
quent course it greatly resembles capped hock, from 
which it differs only in a greater liability to ulcerate 
and become sinuous when allowed to remain until it 
is of extreme magnitude. It is said to derive that 
unenviable peculiarity from being situated nearer to 
the center of circulation. Capped hock is so little 
disposed to take on such a form of disease that the 
author cannot remember having seen a case of the 
kind ; with a tumor on the elbow, however, ulceration is unfortunately 
too common. That probability should forbid the owner to allow the 
tumor to attain any great size ; when large, moreover, it is apt to encir- 
cle the elbow-joint, and then its size seems to render the removal appar- 
ently impossible. It, however, may be extirpated. All said of capped 
hock applies to capped elbow. 

LUXATION OF THE PATELLA. 

That is displacement of the whirl-bone of the stifle, (which answers 
to the knee-cap of the human being.) Such an accident, fortunately, 
few horses incur; there are many veterinary surgeons who, during a 
practice extending over many years, have not encountered a single case; 
whereas other gentlemen will have hardly started in their profession 
before luxation of the patella is submitted to their notice. It is not 
peculiar to any district, it is not confined to any special breed ; it may 
affect all kinds of horses in all sorts of places; for it is produced more 
by the parsimony or the uneharitableness of mankind than by any fault 
in the structure of the animal. 

In several localities throughout the country agriculturists, under the 
notion of saving money, determine to rear horses on short grass. The 
creatures are out in the fields during all kinds of weather; the body 
becomes debilitated under such a starvation system ; those parts which 
are naturally weak become weaker, while those structures which were 
originally endowed with strength grow comparatively stronger. The 
beautiful balance of nature is overthrown, and each portion becomes at 
discoj-d with all the rest; any trivial disease may destroy the life thus at 
war within its own dominion. Colts frequently exhibit luxation of the 
patella before they are broken ; but it is always provoked by weakness, 
and commonly only seen where the management is faulty or the food is 
stinted. 

When the whirl-bone is displaced, it is always found as an unnatural 



326 LUXATION OF THE PATELLA. 

lump upon the outer side of the thigh; it cannot, for three sufficient 
reasons, be drawn to the inner part of the leg. The inner condyle of 
the humerus, over which the patella plays, is sufficiently large to oppose 
any unnatural motion in that direction ; the inner ligaments are the 
weakest, and are, therefore, most readily stretched in the outward direc- 
tion ; the circumstances permit the bone to be displaced from the inside 
of the leg. Then, moreover, the muscles are altogether more powerful 
upon the outer side. Any force acts more energetically as debility 
increases, and, to favor it, there is less resistance in the direction oppo- 
site to which the force pulls; for these reasons the bone is invariably 
luxated upon the outer side of the animal's haunch. 

The symptoms denoting luxation of the patella are : the leg thrust out 
behind, and remaining fixed; the horse's entire frame is affected; the 

head is erect; the muscles quiver; the 
pastern of the protruded leg is violently 
flexed ; there is an unnatural swelling 
upon the outer and lower part of the 
buttock. If the animal be forced to 
move, it can only imperfectly hop upon 
three legs ; such an accident may occur 
at any time, and never be repeated. It 
may, however, become so common as to be 
mistaken for a species of habit ; for lux- 
ation of the patella, when by frequency 
THE PATELLA, OB WHIRL-BONE DISPLACED. confirmcd, wlll takc pkcc upou the 

slightest possible cause. 
In stinted colts the most trivial motion will often give rise to this 
accident; the creature can hardly move without its leg being thrust out 
behind it. The cure is, in these cases, anything which may flurry the 
animal. A noise, made by moving the hand quickly and rather ener- 
getically from side to side within a hat, the crack of a whip, or any 
sudden and loud sound, will occasion the bone to return, with apparent 
ease and the utmost rapidity, to its natural situation. The colt, however, 
may the next moment exhibit the misfortune which, in young life, can 
only be cured by kindly treatment and liberal sustenance. 

Probably the author will best describe the nature of the affection in 
old animals, by narrating a case which a few years ago happened to 
himself. 

At the request of a friend he visited one of those auction marts for 
the sale of horses which in London are somewhat notorious. The object 
of his visit being, if possible, to purchase, his attention was directed to 
certain animals. As usual, a glance enabled him to pass by all the 




LUXATION OF THE PATELLA. 32*J 

marked "lots," and he had reached the third stable, when his eye rested 
on a horse which seemed wrongly placed among such companions. Ifc 
was lively, young, clean legged, short backed, well ribbed up — in fact^ 
one of those rare creatures every inch of which seems made for serv- 
ice. The height was fifteen hands three inches ; the color was a dark 
brown. The author tried in vain to discover if it had any "vice." It 
appeared perfectly quiet. He examined the feet; he could detect no 
unsoundness. He went to the office and ascertained the price — twenty- 
four guineas 1 It was too cheap ! Such an animal would be thrown 
away if sold for fifty guineas. "Would they give a warranty?" "It 
was not their custom to give any warranty." " Had the horse megrims?" 
"No." "Would they grant a trial ?" " It was contrary to their rules." 
Still the author wanted to buy; he would "deposit the cash, and if all 
proved right take the horse." "They never granted trials; but there 
stood the owner — the writer could talk to him." 

The person alluded to was lounging close to the writer's elbow, and 
was habited in that half- blackleg, half-blackguard costume which charac- 
terizes the low London dealer. The contemplation of this individual 
did not improve any previous opinion of the matter. However, the 
man's eye was firmly fixed upon that of his would-be customer, and, 
rather than encounter a disturbance, the author approached the fellow, 
to whom he repeated his request. The answers given were too similar 
to those received from the clerk for the likeness to be purely accidental. 
The dealer nevertheless saw a trial was imperative to convert the inquirer 
into a purchaser; and, rightly judging from appearance that there was 
little of the jocky in the writer's attainments, reluctantly consented to 
afford the demanded test. 

The horse was speedily between the shafts of a very light gig. The 
man took the reins, placed the whip behind him, and we moved off at 
the gentlest of possible trots. No objection was taken to the pace ; it 
gave the better opportunity of examining into the soundness. All was 
right in that particular. The steps were loud and even. After some 
time, during which the man frequently inquired if "I had had trial 
enough now?" we left the paved streets, but no entreaty could cause the 
pace to be improved. At length we came to a rise in the ground, and, 
as it was approached, my companion turned sulky. Hardly had the 
horse began to ascend the inequality, before it suddenly stood quite 
still. The gig was brought to with a jerk, which almost threw both of 
its occupants upon the footboard. The author was the first out of the 
vehicle ; there stood the horse — the leg out, the foot flexed, the head 
erect — displaying the evident symptom of luxation of the patella. 

An inn was fortunately near the spot. To the yard of the hostelry 



328 



BLOOD SPAVIN. 



the animal was with difficulty led. Being sheltered in an unoccupied 
building, a groom was placed at the horse's head. A long rope, thrown 
over a beam, was fastened to the fetlock of the protruded limb. By 
this rope the owner stood; and while he pulled the leg upward and for- 
ward, the writer was by the quarters, with both hands pushing the luxated 
bone inward. The patella soon slipped into its situation ; and the horse 
was afterward sold by auction for four guineas more than the author had 
refused to pay for it. 

Mr. Spooner, in his lectures at the Royal Yeterinary College, always 




THB MANKER OP RETURNINO THE PATELLA OP AN ADULT ANIMAL. 

'iecoramends his hearers, after this bone has been returned, to place an 
assistant by the horse's side, with strict orders to hold the patella in its 
situation for some hours. Such advice is most excellent ; to which we 
can only add, perfect rest, and as much strengthening food as the animal 
can consume. If such measures are pursued, and the horse be not used 
for six weeks subsequent to the accident, there need be little fear enter- 
tained of a second luxation of the patella. 



BLOOD SPAVIN. 

This disease is, happily, with the past: the writer has not seen an 
instance. Neither had the late Mr. Percival — the highest veterinary 
authority — after a life laboriously passed in scientific research. It is 
described to have existed as varicosity of the vena saphena, where the 
vessel crosses the hock. The cause is said to have been bog spavin 
when of magnitude : this, it is asserted, opposed circulation within the 
vessel ; but the author conjectures the swelling must have assumed the 
callous state, before it could have offered sufficient resistance to the 
flow of blood to occasion the vessel to enlarge or to become varicose. 



BLOOD SPAVIN. 



329 



There is no cure for such a disease. The knife may remove the 
deformity ; but a larger blemish was often left as the consequence of 
the operation. Should such a case be known to any of the present 
readers, the author would advise the enlargement should be left alone, 
and trust placed in the absorbing powers of nature for its removal. 




A BLOOD SPAVIN, AS IT 18 BEPOETED TO HAVE ONCE EXISTED. 



CHAPTER XIII. 

THE FEET — THEIR ACCIDENTS AND THEIR DISEASES. 



LAMENESS. 

Of all inventions intended to mitigate the sufferings of the horse, 
none, perhaps, is so generally useful as the foot-bath ; certainly, not 
one is so decidedly beneficial in its operation. It consists merely of a 
wooden or iron trough, one foot deep ; the shoes of the animal should, 
if possible, be taken off before the hoof is allowed to tread within the 




A READY MEANS OP SOFTENINa THE HORN, WHERE PRESSURE OP THE HOOP AGGRAVATES THE tAUEHESe. 

bath; or, if such a measure be not possible, then the burden of the 
horse's body should be counterpoised by means of weights. This pre- 
caution is always prudent, for, should the shod horse occasion fracture 
or breakage, an alarm might be excited which probably would ever after 
prevent the employment of the foot-bath with the same quadruped. 

The water should always be mixed without the building ; it is never 
well to excite an animal's fears by allowing it to witness unnecessary 
preparation. The author is fully aware that most people assert the 
horse has a very limited comprehension: so it may have; but it has an 
active terror, which is apt to misconstrue the simplest of motives. Who- 
ever has seen the busy eye of the quadruped watching all that takes 
(330) 



LAMENESS. 331 

place around it, and noting every triviality whenever any unusual move- 
ment gives intimation to the animal that something is about to be at- 
tempted, will readily allow the need there is for excessive caution. The 
horse may comprehend nothing, but it is not, therefore, the less to be 
propitiated. Its terror has to be soothed and its confidence has to be 
gained; the last is soonest won by avoiding anything which possibly 
might excite the first. 

Always have the heat of the water ascertained by a thermometer. 
Sensation is only a relative test with regard to the presence or absence 
of warmth; were it not so, the coarse hand of a groom, nevertheless, 
might easily endure that degree of temperature which should pain the 
foot and leg of a horse. Let the fluid in the first instance stand at 70° ; 
after the animal has entered the bath, gradually and without noise in- 
crease the temperature up to 90°. 

At that standard the water ought to be maintained ; the hoof should 
remain soaking from four to six hours at each operation ; the groom, 
doubtless, will complain of having frequently to fetch warm water, and 
when not so employed, of being obliged to watch a thermometer; but 
the present book is not written to please the likings of any individual. 
To contribute to the welfare of the horse is the object of the writer; 
that he has not unnecessarily imposed an irksome duty upon any human 
being, the purpose for which the bath is introduced into the stable should 
be sufficient evidence. 

The horse's hoof is of considerable thickness; it is far from unusual 
with stablemen to saturate the healthy hoof with various greasy prep- 
arations ; therefore it will require some time before the heat and water 
can soften that which is, as it were, prepared to resist their action. The 
hoof should be rendered perceptibly soft when the object is to relieve a 
painful lameness ; the warmth and moisture should not only saturate 
the covering to the foot, but should also soothe the internal structures. 
The pressure of the horn may thus be mitigated, and the deep-seated 
inflammation likewise be ameliorated. 

When the bath is removed, the foot should not be left exposed to the 
air, as the horn then quickly dries ; it soon becomes harsh and brittle. 
In this condition, it is likely, to do more injury to the sensitive parts 
than good was anticipated as the consequence of its immersion. The 
hoof, when taken from the water, should be incased in warm and air- 
proof bandages — the intention being to retain the heat, while evapora- 
tion is prevented. The bandages likewise answer another purpose; 
they protect the foot, which, being without a shoe, and covered by horn 
that has been deprived of its resistant property, is therefore much ex- 
posed to accidents. 



332 LAMENESS. 

To obtain the full benefit of the bath, the foot should enter it night 
and morning ; the animal should be subjected to its operation for at least 
four hours each time, and the ingenuity ought to be exerted to prevent 
the hoof from becoming dry in the interim. Perhaps nothing is better 
for this purpose than the leather case, which is lined with sponge, and 
which can be procured of most tradesmen who deal in veterinary instru- 
ments ; it is made to fit the foot, also to envelop the pastern. The bot- 
tom portion is formed of the stoutest leather, and will aflFord all desirable 
protection ; while the sponge will retain the moisture, which this material 
permits to be renewed, should circumstances, such as the heat of the 
hoof or the warmth of the weather, cause the fluid to evaporate. How- 
ever, such additions must always be made with warm, cold water being 
unsuited for the purpose. 

These particulars have been thus fully detailed because lameness con- 
stitutes no inconsiderable portion of equine misery, and because such 
ailments are more frequently encountered than special forms of disease. 
To judge quickly and surely of such affections proves in no small degree 
veterinary proficiency ; in every shade of lameness, the gentleman, unless 
more than usually practiced in such ailments, had better be guided by an 
educated opinion. Where it is possible to mistake another's misery, it 
displays no boldness to risk chances upon our own judgment. 

Lameness is simply the difference of bearing cast, during progression, 
upon the several legs. Pain in the joints, bones, or tendons is most 
severe. It is even more terrible when inflammation of such structures 
is confined within the horny hoof; of this torture man can know nothing 
— he may rest the angry limb, may recline the body, or may seek conso- 
lation in friendly converse and in mental diversion. From all the higher 
pleasures the horse is excluded. It cannot rest the leg ; and the instinc- 
tive dread which the sick animal displays of being unable to rise again 
prevents the quadruped seeking that relief a change of posture might 
afford. 

The horse always stands when seriously diseased ; often the erect 
position is continued to the last, for the sufferer ceases to niaintain it 
only with the relinquishment of life. During severe lameness in one 
foot, the' animal seldom lies down ; it stands and stands, often for months. 
How the limbs must ache ! Yet the relief which the slightest motion 
might induce is avoided with the tenacity which pain begets when oper- 
ating upon excessive timidity. Often one spot is occupied for months ! 
During this tedious period one foot is held from the earth. The mind 
shrinks from conjecturing the torture which could prompt such an act ; 
the reason retreats from contemplating the agony by which the deed can 
alone be occasioned; we shudder as the imagination remotely pictures 



LAMENESS. 



333 




THE MANNER IN 'WHICH THE HOESE PRO- 
' CRESSES WHEN ONE FORE LEO IS INCA- 
PACITATED. 



the pains by wliicli it must be accompanied ! Yet who has been much 
among stables, and has not witnessed many such sights ? 

It requires small knowledge to recognize those lamenesses to which 
the heavy breed of horses is particularly exposed. Agony, being ex- 
cessive, always obliges this species of animal to indicate the limb, or 
to attract the attention of the spectator toward it. These creatures, 
when thus affected, if compelled to move, hop onward upon three legs ; 
the weight is never thrown upon the foot which has been severely 
injured. 

Illustrating this subject is the annexed 
figure of a horse which has been hurt 
upon the off fore foot; the figure is sup- 
posed to be desirous of progressing, or to 
be in the act of bringing the hind limbs 
forward. The entire weight having for 
a certain space to rest upon a single sup- 
port, some time is spent in accurately 
balancing the body before this action is 
hazarded. The slightest mistake would 

necessitate a fall, of which it has been observed the sick horse is endued 
with a particular dread. Therefore, after a certain time spent in prep- 
aration, the legs are, with much muscular exertion, lifted from the ground, 
and the sufferer hops onward. 

The wretchedness of the quadruped, however, is not complete until 
oue or both hind legs are implicated. From some hidden cause, the 
anguish of the animal, great as it may be, is not perfected while the 
lameness resides in front. The horse, suffering in a fore limb, has even 
laid on flesh during the period of enforced idleness. But when the pos- 
terior extremities are injured, the constitution is involved. The body 
wastes rapidly, and every fiber within the huge framework seems to quiver 
with sensibility. 

If the creature, thus disabled in one 
leg, is obliged to advance, the chief 
difficulty is to so place the sound limb 
upon the earth that the balance shall 
not be destroyed. There are the two 
fore legs to rest upon, and the head to 
act as a kind of counterjDoise ; there- 
fore there is little impediment to rais- 
ing of the trunk ; but the obstacle con- 
sists in the peril to be surmounted when 
the sound member reaches the ground. A certain shock has then to be 




THE MANNER OF ADVANCINO THE HIND MESlh 
BERS WHEN ONE POSTERIOR FOOT IS INJURED. 



LAMENESS. 




A HORSE, HAVING ONE HIND LEO RENEEEED 
USELESS, BY A SUDDEN EFFORT ADVANCES 
TEE FORE LIMBS. 



sustained, and the fear apparently is lest the slightest want of prepara- 
tion should bring the body to the earth. 

The next motion delineated necessitates the greatest care and the 
mightiest exertion. There are several signs which declare such to be 

the case. To advance the two sound 
fore legs is an effort of despair always 
preceded by a pause. During the time 
the feet are from the earth, the entire 
weight, unrelieved by the slightest coun- 
terpoise, must be supported by one sound 
limb. The muscles on that side have 
to raise the trunk, or to perform double 
labor, for the step invariably is a species 
of leap. The body has not only to be 
lifted, but the strain must be maintained 
to continue or rectify the balance, A 
pause of more than ordinary length de- 
clares the magnitude of the approaching 
struggle. The teeth are clinched; the head is thrown backward; a deep 
inspiration is inhaled ; the muscles are powerfully excited ; and, with a 
spasmodic suddenness, the feet are projected onward. 

The step accomplished, the breath is released in a kind of heavy sigh ; 
the animal remains quiescent for a brief space, as though the greatness of 
the late effort had partially deprived it of consciousness. It is, however, 
an exceptional case for a horse of the lighter breed to be thus " hopping 
lame." In all animals, nevertheless, lameness is a heavy affliction; in 
all, the manner of progressing is characteristic of pain. Suffering, more 
or less intense, is declared every time the injured foot touches the 
ground. 
> One fore foot being affected, the head and body drop, or slightly sink, 

whenever the sound member rests upon 
the earth. This peculiarity a little re- 
flection will readily account for. Of 
course the desire of a lame animal is to 
spare the disabled foot as much as pos- 
sible. The injured part scarcely touches 
the earth, before, with an effort which 
raises the head and body, it is lifted 
again into the air. The least possible 
burden is thrown upon the disabled foot. 
However, the weight must be cast somewhere ; and by how much less 
one leg has to carry, so much more must the other support. Conse- 




A HORSE, IN THE ACT OF TROTTINO, BEARS THE 
WEIGHT UPON THE SOUND FORE FOOT. 




LAMENESS. 335 

quently, when the sound hoof comes to the ground, the extra burden 
rests upon it ; the head and body perceptibly drop, and the footfall emits 
an emphatic sound, the accent of which is increased by the all but in- 
audible tread of the opposite member. 

The indication, however, is in some measure reversed when the lame- 
ness is situated behind. The movements of the head no longer accom- 
pany those of the fore legs ; for, al- 
though the head be not steady, it 
evidently is not influenced by the for- 
ward members. If, however, the mo- 
tion be closely observed, it will be 
found to be regulated by the move- 
ments of the posterior extremities, 
only with a difference. When the sound 
hind limb rests upon the earth, the 
head is raised ; but the sinking or ele- 

, O ^'- ^-^^ j^ HORSE, BEING LAME IX ONE HIXD FOOT, KEST8 

vation of the whole body is never so ''°^ weight upon the socind umb while 

«' trotting. 

marked as it is in the previous case 

of anterior injury. The movements characteristic of posterior lameness 
are, however, well shown in the haunches. When the sound limb reaches 
the ground, the hind portion of the body obviously drops upon that side ; 
when the painful member is caught up, that side of the haunch on which 
resides the disabled foot is also jerked upward. 

There are other sorts of lameness to be described. A horse is some- 
times returned by the smith lame all round. The gait is peculiar, because 
it is caused by the shoes being too small or tight. It has been likened 
to skating ; and the author thinks the term so applicable that he has no 
desire to change it. There can, however, be then no difficulty in detect- 
ing the cause of the affliction. The horse was, a short time before, sent 
to the forge a sound animal, and it has been returned a positive cripple. 

It is lamentable to remark the number of horses which are driven 
through the streets of London in a disabled condition. People appear 
to be without feelings or recognitions when the sufferings of horse-flesh 
are before them. An animal with scarcely a sound limb, or else "hop- 
ping lame," may frequently be seen, in broad daylight, attached to some 
gentleman's carriage or tradesman's cart, to a hired vehicle or a coster- 
monger's "all sorts." From the highest to the lowest, all are equally 
disgraced ; the toil of a life seems incapable of purchasing a day's com- 
miseration. A little forbearance might be a profitable investment in 
these cases ; but no person seems able to keep a horse and to allow the 
animal a day of rest. So long as it can crawl, so long must patience 
work 1 



336 



LAMENESS. 




ACUTE LAMENESS CAUSED BY ULCEKATION 
WITHIN THE mP-JOlNT. 



Other forms of suffering than those confined to the feet affect the pro- 
gression of the horse ; the "whirl-bone" or hip-joiht is sometimes visited 
by ulceration. The symptoms then in a degree resemble those exhibited 
when occult spavin is present ; the affected limb is, however, after touch- 
ing the earth, caught up more sharply when the hip is diseased. The 
hoof, moreover, is presented more fuljy during motion in the last-men- 
tioned affection. The best method, however, to ascertain the existence 

of the ulceration, is to hold some soft 
substance over the joint, then to strike 
it with a mallet; the shock will be 
communicated to the seat of lameness, 
and elicit an energetic response. 

Nothing can be done for such a con- 
dition ; certain barbarities are pro- 
posed as experiments by continental 
veterinarians ; but man obviously has 
no right to run chances with cruelty 
practiced upon breathing life. Hip- 
joint disease is decidedly incurable, and renders every step a separate 
agony. 

The shoulder is a very favorite seat of injury with those who pretend 
to a knowledge of equine ailments ; with such simple folk, if a horse be 

lame behind, the cause is always traced 
to the whirl-bone ; should an animal 
have partially lost the use of an ante- 
rior limb, the injury is invariably found 
in the shoulder. The proof of their 
correctness is always exhibited in the 
lessened bulk of the parts referred to ; 
but throw a limb out of use, as lame- 
ness in the horse always does, and the 
absorption of the whole extremity, 
from want of exercise, naturally ensyes. 

The shoulder-joint is occasionally ulcerated ; but more often disease 
is found upon the tendon of the flexor brachii, a muscle which, arising 
from the shoulder-joint, is of service in flexing the radius. In both cases 
the seeming length of the arm is remarkable ; so also is the fixedness of 
the shoulder, and the obstinate refusal to advance or to flex the arm. 
The consequence is, that a horse with disease of the shoulder drags the 
limb, and never lifts the toe from the ground. 

Ulceration is sometimes, though rarely, witnessed within the elbow- 
joint ; a case of this description is recorded by the late W. Percival. 




I/RAGGING THE LIMB, THE INDICATION OF 
SHOnLDER LAMENESS. 



LAMENESS. 



33Y 




The chief symptom indicated subacute laminitis ; the affection appeared 
gradually, and, without intermission, proceeded from simple bad to the 
very worst. The foot was, however, 
neither hot nor tender ; by this sign 
the affection was distinguished from 
every form of fever in the feet, al- 
though the animal endeavored to bear 
only upon the heels of the fore ex- 
tremities, and brought the hind legs 
as far under the body as was possible. 

Disease of the knee-joint is far from ''he manner in which a horse having ulcer- 

■' ATION OF THE ELBOW-JOINT ENDEAVORS TO PRO- 

unusual. Mr. Cherry first directed g»ess. 

attention to this fact ; for, although 

dissection had frequently exhibited the carpal bones united, no one prior 

to Mr. Cherry drew any inference from the obvious indication. 

Mr. Cherry describes the symptoms of the affection to be a stiffened 
protrusion of the fore leg, a long step, and an entire want of flexion in 
the diseased limb. 

The author is unable to corroborate the above observations, possibly 
from his attention only having been directed to a few cases, and those 
not of a very acute character. The writer has, however, remarked, in 
certain instances, a perpetual knuckling over, without deposit in the knee 
or contraction in the tendons being present to account for the assump- 
tion of so uncomfortable an attitude. A want of power to bend the 
leg was noted in a few animals. Such horses either placed the limb 
outside the body when they lay down, or rested upon their sides ; and 
lameness, though always present, was never witnessed in an aggravated 
shape. 

No human lamentation could embody the deep sorrow which the crip- 





THE HEALTHY lEO WHEN THE HORSE IS 
LYING DOWN. 



THE NEAREST APPROACH MADE BT THE 
HEEL TO THE ELBOW IN CERTAIN CON- 
DITIONS or THE KNEE-JOINT. 



pled condition of one leg occasions to the horse. The creature thereby 
is left a clog upon the earth. Its existence is deprived of the power 
which alone made it pleasant. Progression is laborious, and even rest 
is painful. The quadruped, thus disabled, stands motionless on one 

22 



338 LAMENESS. 

spot; the head is lowered; the eyes are dejected; the breathing is fit- 
ful ; and the entire frame is apparently resigned to a huge sense of 
degradation. All the pride of life is lost. Every trace of animation 
has fled. The animal evidently is, in its own conviction, useless and 
disgraced. A horse in such a state is, indeed, a melancholy spectacle; 
and the feelings of that man who, understanding the image, can ^con- 
template it unmoved are not to be envied. Still, for how many years 
has such a sight been before the eyes of mankind, without any individual 
possessing the heart to interpret it ! 

Surely in all life there exists no other creature so willing to obey — 
so happy in its labor, and so entirely obedient under command — which 
is equally subjected to abuse ! All the horse demands, in requital for its 
manifold services, is food and shelter : . kindness it does not insist upon, 
and even bad usage it submits to. For permission to live, it mildly 
pleads; and in return for the liberality which merely supports the 
strength, it contentedly resigns its body and relinquishes its intelligence. 
Yet the natural wants are often stinted, although the toil is always bit- 
terly exacted. Surely in all life there exists no other creature equally 
subjected to abuse ! 

The patience of the reader is solicited, while the author notices a 
circumstance connected with the present subject, which has repeatedly 
come under his observation. Nothing can so entirely subdue the spirit 
of a horse as an acute lameness : the suffering must be intense. To a 
distant conception of the agony endured man cannot excite his imagina- 
tion. Still, all of the effect upon the quadruped is not to be attributed 
to that cause. Other diseases are painful, but by them the constitution 
is affected. Lameness, generally, is a local affliction — it is not a general 
involvement ; it leaves the constitution healthy. Yet a high-mettled, or 
even a savage animal, is often quieted as by a charm when the foot is 
disabled. The intractable of the species has, by a sudden visitation of 
this nature, been rendered passive. The existence seems then to be 
given up to misery, and the horse becomes disregardful of whoever 
approaches it. On such a sufferer expend but a little time striving to 
convince it of your intent. It is astonishing how quick affliction is to 
comprehend humanity ; and the painful foot is given up to man's desires 
— nay, sometimes it is even advanced for his inspection. 

The writer has applied to the crippled feet of horses certain remedies 
which must have augmented what previously appeared to be the extreme 
of anguish. The author has been painfully conscious of the agony 
attendant on the operation ; but to his surprise the animals have not 
flinched, neither have the feet been withdrawn. The quadruped appeared 
to suffer torture with the patience of stoicism, influenced by the aban- 



PUMICE FOOT. 339 

doument of utter confidence. The most caustic dressings have been 
freely employed upon the most sensitive part ; yet the creature wliich, 
when in health, seemed made up of the acutest sensibilities, has sub- 
mitted to the torture with more than mortal fortitude. Once win the 
reliance of timidity, and so beautiful, so entire, so self-nugatory is its 
confidence. 

Little can be said concerning the cure of lameness. The causes are 
various, and, of course, the remedies are as numerous as the provo- 
catives. One thing may, however, be advised : have the shoe taken off 
and the foot searched. Never mind the horn being pared away — many 
a horse limps upon a whole hoof; and it is astonishing upon how small 
a portion of horn an animal may go sound. The seat of the injury 
being ascertained, and so much of the inorganic covering removed as 
may be necessary to afford some relief, always soak the foot in the bath 
before permitting the final use of the knife. The water cleanses the 
part, favors the discharge of pus, lowers the inflammatory action, soft- 
ens the anguish, and destroys the harsh character of the dry horn. This 
last substance, as was observed, by the united action of warmth and 
moisture loses its resistant property. It cuts easily when newly re- 
leased from the bath ; and if the knife be sharp, it may be excised with- 
out any of that dragging sensation which frequently provokes the animal 
to snatch away the member while it is being operated upon. 

PUMICE FOOT. 

Pumice foot is a deformity produced by hard work ; it does certainly 
appear strange, when we regard the beauty and strength united in the 
frame of the horse, that man's barbarity should exceed Nature's inge- 
nuity. A more captivating present — heightening human pleasures, 
lessening human toil — than the horse, it is impossible to imagine; but 
its beauty seems only given for man to deface. A stronger helpmate, 
when speed is considered, it appeared beyond the most excited imagin- 
ation to fancy. But the cruelty of the master found it easy to incapa- 
citate the power so exquisitely endowed. The speed was too slow for 
the eagerness of the rider ; the docility was not apt enough for the im- 
patience of the possessor; in every particular the servant seems to have 
been at fault; and now we hear men gravely lamenting the invention of 
railroads, because these will interfere with the breeding of horses. Let 
us hope the establishment of railroads may supply a deficiency which the 
willingness of flesh and blood was unable to gratify. 

Animals bred on a marshy land, and of a loose habit of body, are 
apt to have weak feet, a specimen of which is given on next page, though 



340 PUMICE FOOT. 

not of one belonging to the heavy cart-horse. All the delineations in- 
serted in this book are necessarily extreme cases; it is easy for the 
imagination to soften the evil when the mind is impressed with charac- 
teristics of the thing which is depicted ; but not always so free from 
difficulty for an untutored imagination to magnify a reduced portrait. 

A weak foot has a long, slanting pastern ; the hoof is marked by 
rings, showing the irregularity of the horny secretion, and the crust is 
broken in those places where nails have been driven to fasten on the 
shoe, proving the brittle nature of the hoof. 

Such are the outward signs of a weak hoof; but if the person behold- 





A 'WEAK FOOT. THE SOLE OP A WEAK FOOT. 

ing that sort of foot be in any doubt, let him lift it from the ground and 
inspect the sole. That part will also present peculiarities which can 
hardly fail to attract attention. 

The sole of a weak foot has a thin and irregular margin of crust; a 
flat surface; well-developed bars, and a healthy frog. Creatures with 
this kind of hoof, when brought to work upon hard roads or London 
stones, are apt to throw the foot down with heedless force at every step, 
and thereby soon to bruise the sole. These horses generally have high 
action, and this circumstance lends additional force to the blow; the 
injury reaches the coffin-bone, which begins to enlarge, and ultimately 
forces the horny sole outward. A pumice foot has the appearance of 
the member represented on the next page, though the reader must not 
anticipate the illustration will accurately indicate every stage of the 
disorder. 

Feet of the above description generally have very weak and brittle 
crusts ; but the frog almost invariably is large and prominent ; there is 
no kind of foot which so generally exhibits a healthy frog, and the next 
page shows an engraving of the ground surface of a pumice foot, in 
illustration of the fact. 

There are many methods proposed for amending a pumiced foot- 
One is the removal of the shoe; then allowing the deformed foot to 
stand a certain portion of time upon flat flag-stones. But as stamping 
the foot upon stones produced pumice foot, prolonged stress thereon 



PUMICE FOOT. 



341 



does not seem calculated to remove the deformity. A pumice foot is 
not a lump of pudding, to be flattened by simple pressure. In the 
horse's hoof there is bone and flesh to operate upon. Even supposing 
the standing upon flag-stones was beneficial, what immediate result 
could be anticipated from a medicine which was to be administered 
once in three weeks, and for half an hour only at each application ? 





, THE SIDE VIEW OP A POMICED FOOT. 

Showing the swollen or rounded state of the sole, 
with the brittle and uneven condition of the 
crust. 



THE SOLE OF A PUMICED FOOT. 

Displaying a ragged wall, and exhibit- 
ing a very healthy frog and a bulging 
sole. 



Another artifice is to draw a hot iron over the sole at every shoeing. 
The intention is to stimulate the horn and thus render the sole of greater 
thickness. But that which may affect the secreting membrane of the 
foot may also stimulate the bone to which that membrane is attached. 
Thus the intended remedy may turn out to be a positive aggravation. 





A PUMICED FOOT DIVIDED. 

Showing the altered state of the internal structures. 



A DISH SHOE. 

Employed in cases of severe pumice foot. 



There are also other methods of intended relief, but all are equally 
useless. 

The only means of real benefit lies in the treatment of the hoof and 
in the mode of shoeing. For the last, select what is denominated a 
"dish" shoe; that is, a bar shoe, having the web hollowed out like to 
the sides of a pie-dish. The only part of this shoe which touches the 
ground is the rim of the inner circle. 

This kind of shoe will protect the bulging sole, and if shod with 
leather, the protection will be greater, though the shoe will, in that 
case, be more difficult to retain. The flat surface at the posterior part 
of the shoe presents a point for the bearing of the frog, which can 



343 SANDCRACK. 

afford almost any amount of pressure. The. many nail holes made 
around the shoe denote the difficulty the smith encounters when fixing 
a protection of this sort upon the pumiced hoof. The crust of the foot 
is always brittle, and the weight of iron employed being greater than 
usual requires an extra number of nails to fasten it securely. The 
smith consequently, in such cases, has no choice. He must drive a nail 
wherever he can find the horn which will sustain one. 

With regard to the horn, keep that continually dressed with equal 
parts of animal glycerin and tar. Moisten the hoof with this mixture 
twice a day. No improvement may be remarked in a week ; but in two 
or three months the crust will have become perceptibly less brittle, and 
the labor of the smith will be rendered far less perplexing. For the 
abnormal condition of the foot — that is permanent and nothing can ]>e 
done beyond employing such artifices as are calculated to relieve the 
affliction. 

SANDCRACK. 

Any cause which weakens the body of the horse by interfering with 
the health of its secretions may induce sandcrack. Treading for any 
length of time upon ground from which all moisture is absent, by render- 
ing the horn hard or dry, may cause the hoof to be brittle and give rise 
to sandcrack. However, this last provocative seldom operates in this 
country; when sandcrack occurs in an English horse, it is generally 
generated by debility, which leads to the secretion of faulty horn. So 
far, however, is this from being the prevailing opinion, and so little 
sympathy does the horse receive in its diseases, that the endeavor, in- 
deed the custom, of all veterinary surgeons is to continue at work the 
horse having a division running completely through the hoof. 

Saudcracks are of two sorts. Quarter crack, which chiefly happens 
among the lighter breed of animals ; toe crack, which occurs prin- 
cipally with cart-horses, and mostly with those which work between the 
shafts. 

Quarter sandcrack is of the least importance of the two. It is oftenest 
seen upon the inner quarter of the hoof, where the horn, being thinnest, 
is most subjected to motion. Usually it commences at the coronet, 
extending to the sole, and also to the sensitive laminae. 

A horse thus affected should be thrown up ; should be placed in a 
large, loose box, and receive soft, nutritious food, such as boiled oats, 
boiled linseed, and scalded hay. A little green-meat occasionally should 
be allowed to regulate the bowels ; greased swabs should be placed over 
the hoof and under the sole. A bar shoe should be worn upon the affected 



SANDCRACK. 



343 




QUARTER SANDCRACK. 

Generally met with, in fast 
horses, iipon the inner 
side of the fore foot. 



foot. This treatment should be continued till the horse has recovered 
from its debility. 

With regard to the crack itself, take a fine knife and gradually scrape 
off the sharp edges till the division assumes the 
appearance of a groove. If the crack does not 
reach through to the flesh, no fear need be enter- 
tained concerning the lower edges of the crack, 
because the horn secreted by the laminas is of a soft 
nature, and will most readily yield. Besides, par- 
ing the outer horn often prevents the inner layer 
being cracked by the motion of the foot; this being 
done, should the division not descend the entire 
length of the hoof, or reach from the ground to the 
coronet, with a firing-iron, heated to redness, draw a line at each ex- 
tremity of the fissure. The line need not be made so deep as will occa- 
sion pain ; it is only necessary that the mark should go through the 
hard outer crust of the foot to prevent extension of the division. 

Should the separation be the whole way down the hoof, it is as well 
to adopt either the plan followed by the late Mr. Read, or the mode 
pursued by Mr. Woodger, the clever practical veterinarian, well known 
in Paddington. Mr. Read used to make a semicircular line near the 
coronet with the hot iron : Mr. Woodger has for years been accustomed 
to draw lines from the coronet to the crack in the shape of a Y, with 
the same instrument. Both methods have a like intention, namely, to 
cut off the coronet from the inferior portion of the hoof, thereby pre- 
venting the movements of the foot from operating upon the newly 
secreted horn. However, Mr. Woodger's plan being the easiest, and 
quite as effective as that of the late Mr. Read, is certainly the best. 





A PARTIAL QUARTER SANDCRACK DRESSED 
AND SHOD. 



THE METHODS OF ERADICATINO A SANDCRACK: 
EITHER THE SEMICIRCULAR OR THE ANGULAR 
LINES ARE EQUALLY EFFECTIVE. 



Sandcrack, when it occurs at the toe, usually extends the entire length 
of the foot, and leaves a portion of bleeding flesh exposed. 'The laminae, 
being opened to the stimulating effects of the air, are very apt to throw 
out a crop of luxuriant granulations. These, of course, are pinched 
between the two sides of the division. They bleed freely ; often, from 



344 



SANDCRACK. 




A FOOT WITH TOE SANDCRACK. 

Ulnstrating the mode of shoeing 
with clips, and of easing otT at 
the toe; also exemplifying the 
manner of paring down the 
hoof, and showing the part 
where granulations are likely 
to appear. 



the pressure, they turn black, and then smell abominably. The putrid 
action, having once commenced, is apt to extend, and portions of the 
coffin-bone are likely to exfoliate. 

Now to prevent this, so soon as the horse is 
brought in with a sandcrack, wash the part 
thoroughly with the chloride of zinc lotion, 
one grain to the ounce of water. The bleed- 
ing having ceased, pare down the outward 
edges of the separation, and put on a bar shoe, 
eased off at the toe, and with a clip on either 
side of the division. If the injury has not ex- 
tended the length of the hoof, you must make 
a line at each extremity with a heated iron, as 
in quarter crack, than which it is also of more 
consequence that the coronet should be isolated ; 
because the external horn being thickest at the 
toe, is the more likely by its movements to be 
influential upon the new and plastic horn of the 
coronet. 
Should, however, the granulations have appeared, and the horse, with 
appetite lost and the head dejected, the pulse thumping and the injured 
foot held in the air, appear the picture of a living misery, first cleanse 
the wound thoroughly with the chloride of zinc lotion. Then apply a 
firing-iron, of a black heat, to the hoof, near to the crack. The inten- 
tion, in doing this, is to warm and thus to soften the horn. This effect 
being accomplished, pare down or scoop off the edges — using the heated 
iron again, if necessary. Do all this leisurely, and with every consider- 
ation for the animal, which endures intense agony; for anything like 
violence or impatience tells fearfully upon the sufferer's system. 

The horn being lowered, take a very sharp drawing-knife, atfd, with 
one movement of the wrist, excise the granulation. Set down the foot, 
and leave it to bleed ; the loss of blood will lower the inflammation and 
will benefit the internal parts. Give a little green-meat to cool the sys- 
tem and act upon the bowels. Then, with the constant use of the lotion, 
enough has been done for one day. 

The following morning you may again apply the lotion, and con- 
tinue to use it afterward thrice daily. Any further lowering may 
also be accomplished to the edges of the crack, as well as the coronal 
portion of the horn be separated from the lower part of the hoof, by 
means of lines drawn as before illustrated. 

If the horse must go to work, remember, it should not be in the shafts, 
upon long journeys, or with a heavy load behind it. Before the animal 



FALSE QUARTER. 



345 




quits the stable, lay a piece of tow saturated with the lotion within the 
crack, and bind that in with a wax-end ; tie a strip of cloth over all ; 
give this bandage a coating of tar ; and, when the 
horse returns, be sure to inspect the part. Should any 
grit have penetrated, wash it out with the lotion, and 
do not begrudge a minute or two to remove that which, 
if allowed to remain, may cause the animal much ad- 
ditional anguish. Then give the suffering creature a 
nice, deep bed, some scalded hay, and a mash made of 
bruised oats, into which has been thrown a handful 
each of linseed and of crushed beans ; moisten these 
last constituents with the water drawn from the scalded 
hay, and, if the horse should not appear hungry, throw 
among the hay half a handful of common salt. 

The poor man may have some excuse for working an animal with 
Bandcrack ; such a person cannot afford to keep the horse in idleness for 
the months which the cure will occupy. But the worst cases of this kind 
the author ever beheld have always been in quadrupeds belonging to 
wealthy tradesmen, who had ample means to gratify their desires, but 
wanted the heart to feel for mute affliction. 



A horse's foot dressed 

FOR TOE SANDCRACK. 

Showing the way in 
which it ehould be 
bound up when work 
is imperative. 



FALSE QUARTER. 

False quarter is the partial absence of the outer and harder portion 
of the hoof; the consequence is, that the sensitive laminae, in the seat 
of the false quarter, are only protected by their own soft or spongy horn. 
This is frequently insufficient to save the foot from severe accident ; it is 
apt to crack, being strained by the motion of the hoof. The fleshy parts 
are then exposed ; bleeding ensues, and fungoid granulations sometimes 
spring up ; these are often pinched by the two sides of the divided horn, 
between which they protrude. When such occurs, the treatment should 
be the same as that recommended for sandcrack. 





FALSE QUARTER, OR A DEFICtENCT OF 
THE OUTER WALL. 



THE ONLY POSSIBLE RELIEF FOR FALSE 
qUABTES. 



No art can cure a false quarter ; a portion of the coronary substance 
has been lost, and no medicine can restore it. All that can be done is 



34G SEEDY TOE. 

to mitigate the suffering ; a bar shoe with a clip at the toe may be used, 
the bearing being taken off at the seat of false quatter. The portion of 
crust near to the weakened part should be beveled off, so as to join the 
soft horn with an insensible edge. Some persons recommend a mixture 
of pitch, tar, and rosin to be poured over the exposed quarter ; the 
author has not found this compound to answer ; it peels and breaks off 
upon the horse being put in motion. A piece of gutta-percha, of pro- 
portionate thickness, fastened over the place, has sometimes remained 
on for a week, and answered to admiration. 

SEEDY TOE. 

It appears not to have occurred to writers upon veterinary subjects 
that the horse, which breathes but to work — for the instant its ability to 
toil ceases the knacker becomes its possessor — that an animal which 
exists under so severe a law, should occasionally be "used up ;" that a 
creature which is sold from master to master, all of whom become pur- 
chasers with a view only to " the work" each can get out of the " thews 
and muscles," should occasionally be debilitated to that stage which 
might interfere with the healthiness of its secretions, is a notion that 
seems to have been beyond the reach of those writers who have hitherto 
composed books upon the equine race. A separa- 
tion between the union of the two layers of horn 
which compose the crust has been long known ; it 
has been much thought about, and the fancy has been 
somewhat racked to account for its origin. Still, 
although the human physician has recoi'ded the brit- 
sECTioN OF A HOKSE's FOOT ^^® ^^^^® ^^^ abttormal condltlon of man's nails in 
AFFECTED WITH SEEDY pecuHar stagBS of disease, no one seems thence to 
have argued that a certain condition of body might 
possibly affect the hoofs of our stabled servant. 

The method of cure which the author adopted, led thereto by the 
admirable lectures of Mr. Spooner, and the success it met, soon made 
apparent the fact of its origin ; but, before describing this, it may be as 
well to inform the reader in what consists a seedy state of the horse's 
toe. 

The wall of the foot is composed of two layers — the outer one, the 
hardest, the darkest, and the thinnest, is secreted by the coronet ; the 
inner layer, the softest, thickest, and most light in color, is derived from 
the sensitive laminae. These different kinds of horn, in a healthy state, 
unite one with the other, so that the two apparently form one substance. 
The junction makes a thick, elastic, and strong body, whereto an iron 




SEEDY TOE. 



347 




THE APPEARANCE PRE- 
SENTED BT SEEDY TOE 
■WHEN THE SHOE 13 
REMOVED, AND THB 
GROUND SURFACE OF 
THE WALL IS INSPECT- 



Once every 



shoe can be safely nailed, and whereon the enormous bulk of the horse's 
frame may with safety rest. 

But when overwork affects the natural functions of the body, the two 
kinds of horn do not unite ; their division invariably 
begins at the toe, as it always commences in the nail of 
the human being at the outer margin. If the seedy toe 
be tapped or gently struck, it emits a hollow sound ; 
and if the shoe be removed, there will be found a va- 
cant space between the two layers of horn ; into this 
space a nail, a piece of broom, or a straw is commonly 
pushed, to ascertain the depth of the lesion. 

Mr. Spooner advised that the whole of the detached 
horn should be cut away. The writer, however, insists 
that the horse should be thrown up — not turned out to 
grass, but placed in an airy, loose box, and liberally 
fed, or otherwise so treated as its condition may require, 
fortnight, for two months, the smith should inspect the 
foot, and should cut away so much of the outer wall as 
may still be disunited. It commonly takes three or 
four months for the hoof to grow down or to become 
perfect; and rest, with liberal feeding, during this time, 
is sufficient to renovate an exhausted frame. A new 
and sound covering for the hoof of the invigorated 
horse is secreted by the expiration of the period named ; 
nor has it reached the knowledge of the writer that any 
animal, after such a mode of treatment, has been liable 
to a second attack. 

The ordinary method of cure is to cut away the hoof; then, having 
nailed a shoe on, to send the disfigured horse to resume labor. Under 
this form of treatment, the seedy division, once confined to the toe, has 
extended to the quarters ; the structure of the hoof being destroyed, the 
horn was unfitted for its purposes. The weight of the body forced the 
sensitive laminae from the coronary secretion, and the foot, after long 
treatment, became a deformity. The author has never beheld so lament- 
able a termination ; but it is described by writers upon seedy toe with a 
complacency which seems to regard so grievous a result as the natural 
consequence of an intractable disorder. 




THE APPEARANCE OP 
THE HOOP AFTER THE 
SEEDY TOE HAS BEEN 
REMOVED WITH THK 
KNIFE. 



348 TREAD AND OVERREACH, 



TREAD AND OVERREACH. 

Tread is a very rare occurrence with light horses ; the author has met 
with but one instance. Then, from the horse being a good stepper, and 
from the accident happening toward the end of a long journey, as well 
as from certain indications of the wound itself, it was conjectured to have 
occurred in the manner depicted below. 





TREAD IN LIGUT HORSES. TREAD UPON THE HIND FOOT 

The hiud foot, from fatigue, not being removed *>^ cakt-horses. 

8oon enough, is wounded by the heel of the The animal become unsteady from exhaustion; 

fore shoe being placed upon its coronet. the feet cross, and a wound results. 

However, among cart-horses such a form of injury is more frequent ; 
these poor animals have to drag heavy loads, at a slow pace, it is true, 
but to long distances ; they are generally badly fed. Farmers' horses, 
especially during the spi-ing and summer months, being supported upon 
green-meat, the watery nourishment impoverishes the blood, and the 
exhausting labor undermines the system. Often the load has to be taken 
down hill, toward the end of a tedious journey ; the whole burden then 
rests upon the shafts, and the wretched horse which is between them 
rocks under the weight like a drunken man. The legs cross, till at last 
the calkin belonging to the shoe of one hind foot tears away a large lump 
of the opposite coronet. A piece of flesh is commonly left upon the 
ground ; the hemorrhage is extreme, and the wagon is brought to a 
stand. 

The worst case of the kind the writer ever saw occurred after the pre- 
ceding fashion ; and the carter — who, by-the-by, was proprietor of the 
sufferer — left the poor horse in a foi'ge, giving orders that the smith was 
to do what he could, or to have it killed, as he pleased. The smith con- 
sulted the writer, and he treated the wound after the method recom- 
mended for open joint, or by bathing it thrice daily with the solution of 
chloride of zinc, one grain to the ounce of water. In a week a large 
slough took place ; this opened the coffin-joint, and left a portion of the 
extensor pedis tendon hanging from the orifice. The treatment was 
continued ; the lameness, which at first was excessive, gradually grew 




CORNS. 349 

less ; the piece of tendon sloughed out, and the wound began to heal. 
It had closed when the animal was fetched away by the owner ; but the 
writer was unable afterward to learn whether false quarter ensued upon 
the injury. This, from the extent of the wound, the writer would con- 
jecture to have been probable ; indeed, false quarter and quittor are the 
general consequences of severe tread. 

Overreach is. confined to fast horses ; it happens to those which are 
good steppers. When tired, the feet are apt to be moved irregularly ; 
thus, one foot is often in its place before the other has 
been lifted ; the result is, that the inner part of the 
hind foot strikes the outer side of the fore coronet. 
A wound, and frequently a severe one, is the conse- 
quence. False quarter or quittor is likely to ensue ; 
the treatment must be the same as was before de- 
scribed. No poultices are required ; these only add 
to the weight of the injured limb, and augment the overreach occuRRma 
distress of the animal. No harsh measures should be l^^^^^„ ^Zl^^I^Jf^ 

TION OF LIGHT HORSES. 

allowed ; the horse has enough to bear ; a slough has 
to take place. This is a severe tax upon the strength ; all the good 
food and prepared water the animal can consume will not now be thrown 
away ; the treatment is materially shortened by the nourishment being 
sustaining of its kind, and liberal in quantity ; but the injury should be 
treated only with the knife, and the chloride of zinc lotion described in 
the course of this article. 

CORNS. 

Corns are of four kinds — the old, the new, the sappy, and the suppu- 
rating ; all are caused by bruises to the sensitive sole. The shoe is the 
passive agent in their production, when they occur in large, fleshy feet ; 
the thick, unyielding, horny sole is the passive agent, when they are 
present in contracted feet. The coffin-bone, in both cases, is the active 
agent ; the wings, or posterior portions of this bone, project backward 
nearly as far as the bars, or immediately. over the seat of corn. When 
the horse is in motion, the coffin-bone can never remain still ; it rises, or 
rather the wings are drawn upward by the flexor tendon, every time the 
foot is lifted from the earth, and sinks, because of the weight cast upon 
it, every time the foot touches the ground. The wings of the bone, thus 
in constant action, when the horny sole is weak, often descend upon the 
fleshy sole, and bruise that substance upon the iron shoe ; what is called 
a corn is the consequence. In contracted feet, where the sole is high, 
thick, and resistant, the horny sole does not descend, even when the 
immense weight of the horse's body rests upon it. It remains firm and 



350 



CORNS. 



fixed during every action of the animal — not so, however, the coffin-bone, 
which is in continuous motion. The result, of course, is, the imposed 
burden forces the wings of the coffin-bone downward. The horny sole 




Showing the position of the hindermoat 
part of the coflBn-bone when in a pas- 
give state; also portraying the shoe in 
the fleshy or flat foot. 




DIAGRAM 

Illustrating the relative positions of the 
winga of the coffin-bone, .and the thick, 
concave, horny sole of the contracted 
foot when not in motion. 



will not yield, and the fleshy sole is therefore bruised between the wings 
of the coffin-bone and the horn bottom of the hoof ; a corn is thereby 
established. 

Corns in a horse do not answer to those excrescences found upon the 
feet of man ; being bruises, they consist of effusion in every instance. 
The effusion may either be of blood or of serum ; blood constitutes the 
old and the new corn, serum gives rise to the sappy corn. The suppu- 
rative corn is an after-consequence of either of those just named ; when 
the effusion has been so large as to defy absorption, a new action is 
started up — pus is secreted, and a suppurative corn is then created. 

An old corn is the least serious, especially when it is easily cut away; 
it appears as a black mark upon the surface of the horny sole, and is 
little thought of when it can be speedily removed by the knife, because 
this shows the horse had a corn, but at present is free from such an 
annoyance. When, however, a superficial corn cannot be scooped out 





THE SITUATION AND ASPECT 
OF AN OLD CORN UPON A 
LARGE, FLAT FOOT. 



THE DEEPLY-SEATED AND SMALL, 
SCARLET SPOT WHICH DECLARES 
THE PEESENCE OP A NEW COKN. 



with the drawing-knife, but becomes brighter and brighter as more and 
more horn is cut away, till it assumes the scarlet aspect of a new corn, 



CORNS. 351 

the matter is rather grave, because it denotes the horse to have had, and 
not to have been free from, corns during the growth of the present sole. 

The new corn, as has been just intimated, consists of a portion of 
blood effused into the pores of the horn, and is of a bright-scarlet color. 
The size is of some consequence, as it best intimates the extent of the 
injury ; if the stain be small and deep seated, it is of least moment. 

The sappy corn is the consequence of a more gentle bruise, when serum 
and lymph only are effused — the horn being thereby merely rendered 
moist, not discolored. This species of corn is not very common, and by 
proper shoeing is readily removed. 

The suppurating corn is the worst of all; it engenders heat in the 
foot, and causes excessive lameness ; it creates all that anguish, a shad- 
owy taste of which the human being endures when pus is confined beneath 
the substance of the finger-nail. The foot cannot be put to the ground ; 
the arteries of the pastern throb forcibly; the countenance is dejected ; 
and every symptom of acute suffering in a large body is exhibited. 

Corns, which in man are found on the lower members, in the horse 
are generally witnessed only upon the fore feet. The writer has rarely 
seen an instance of their presence behind ; but in whichever foot they 
appear, they must be the production of an instant, though, probably, 
the suppurative may be an exception ; yet from these always being sud- 
denly observed, even this species are said to be of instantaneous origin. 
A horse, when progressing, makes a false step ; a sanguineous or sappy 
corn is by that faulty action established. The same horse may trot 
home perfectly sound, and be put into the stable for the night a healthy 
animal; but on the following morning it may be discovered standing on 
three legs. Pus may, in the interval, have been secreted, and the corn 
may have assumed the suppurative character. 

The manner to examine for corn is, in the first place, to mark the age 
of the horse ; then observe if, in the trot, 
either leg is favored. The animal being 
young, splint is the common cause of un- 
even action; if old, corns are more gener- 
ally expected; the horse is brought to a 
stand and the smith sent for. The man 
raises the fore foot, and, taking a portion 
of crust and sole between the teeth of the 
pincers, gradually increases the pressure; 
he thus proceeds till he has bv successive ''^^ ^°^^ °^ f^^ horse's foot beino 

*• •' TESTED FOR CORNS. 

trials squeezed the sole all round. If the 

leg, while undergoing the operation, be withdrawn near either of the 

nails, the ideas take a different direction to that of corn ; but if the foot 




352 CORNS. 

be held steady, the seat of corn is lastly squeezed. Should no flinching 
be witnessed, the examination is not esteemed satisfactory until the smith 
has, with a small drawing-knife, denominated a searcher, cut away a por- 
tion of the sole at the seat of corn. 

The sensibility will be extreme should suppurating corn be present; 
in that case the sole must be gradually removed until the pus is released. 
That being done, the shoe should be taken off" and the foot put into a 
bran poultice. By this means the horn will be rendered more soft and 
the wound cleansed. The smith, on the following day, must again cut 
the foot, every portion of detached horn being very carefully excised. 

The horn is itself a secretion, and, in a healthy state, is intimately 
united with the source of its origin. When, however, pus is effused, 
this always lies between the secreting membrane and the horn, which 
has been already secreted. The horn so displaced by the presence of a 
foreign substance is called under-run or detached; and all horn, so 
under-run or detached, must be removed. When this operation is prop- 
erly performed, all signs of lameness will have generally disappeared. 
It is usual, however, to tack the old shoe on again ; and having dressed 
the injury with chloride of zinc and water — one grain to the ounce — 
there remains only to examine the foot from time to time till new horn 
covers the surface ; merely taking precaution for the present to shield 
the wound with a little tow, fastened in its place by a couple of cross 
splints. 

When sanguineous or sappy corns are found, the method is, firstly to 
thin the sole, so as to render it pliable, especially over the seat of corn. 
Should a sappy corn have rendered the horn moist for aijy space, or 
should the discoloration caused by sanguineous corn be of any size, it 
is as well always to open the center of the part indicated : no matter 
should the cut release only a small quantity of serum or a little blood. 
Take away a small portion of horn ; pare the sole till it yield to the 
pressure of the thumb. When such a proceeding is necessary, the bars 
may be entirely removed, and the wounds should be covered with some 
tar spread upon a pledget of fine tow. As soon as the orifice is pro- 
tected by new horn, the horse may be shod with a leathern sole and 
returned to its proprietor. 

Such a course would occupy little time — a week at most. Yet the 
great majority of horse proprietors appear to have "flinty hearts," as 
nearly all of them begrudge the necessary day of rest to the maimed 
animal which has been injured in their employment. The cry, where 
the horse is concerned, is "toil, toil!" The veterinary surgeon is often 
asked "if absolute rest is imperative." He is frequently solicited to 
patch up the poor animal, so that it may do a little work. As day after 




CORNS. 35;; 

day passes onward, the tone becomes more and more authoritative. The 
horse is at last too often demanded from the hospital, and taken to re- 
sume ordinary labor before the injury is effaced. Should no evil effect 
ensue on such a culpable want of caution, the proprietor is apt to 
chuckle over his daring with another's sufferings, and to blame the 
science which would not incur risk, even to propitiate an employer. 

Corn is not generally reckoned unsoundness. If a horse be lame 
from corn, the lameness renders the horse unsound; but the corn does 
not. Such is the beauty of horse logic when pronounced in a court of 
justice 1 A corn may suppurate, or may provoke lameness at any 
moment. Still the corn, in the bleared eye of the law, is no sufficient 
objection to the purchase of a horse. The 
suppurated corn may lead to quittor — still, 
corn is not legal unsoundness. It is a pity 
such is the case, since it leads men to neglect 
that which is removable. When the sole is 
high, the shoe should always be accompanied 
by a leathern sole. Liquid stopping should be 
poured into the open space at the back of the the posterior op a horse's 

"^ '■ '■ FOOT SHOD 'WITH LEATHER. 

foot; and at every time of shoeing, the smith 

The central angular mark indi- 

should pare the sole quite thin, even until drops cates the place into which the 
of blood bedew the surface of the horn. When poured. 
corns appear in flat or fleshy feet, as shoeing 

time comes round, only have the very ragged portions of the frog taken 
away. Have the web of the shoe narrowed so as to remove all chance 
of pressure against the iron. Lower the heels of the shoe, or try a bar 
shoe with the bearing taken off over the seat of corn ; should that not 
answer, next put on a three-quarter shoe : many horses, however, will 
go sound in tips, that cannot endure any other sort of protection to the 
foot. By resort to one or the other of these measures, that injury, 
which in the learned eye of the law is of no consequence, but which, 
nevertheless, may lead to terrible lameness, or even lay the foundation 
for a quittor, may be greatly mitigated. 

Braise of the sole is an accident leading to effusion of blood — so far 
it resembles corn; but it is dissimilar in not occurring on a part subject 
to the same degree of motion, and, therefore, is not so severe in the con- 
sequences to which it leads. It is caused by treading on a stone, and 
is removed by paring off the horn which has been discolored or lies 
immediately beneath the injury. It seldom leads to great lameness or 
gives rise to serious results. It is treated after the manner directed for 
corn; but it is always advisable to shoe once, with leather, the horse 
which has suffered from bruise of the sole. The difference between 

23 



354 



QUITTOR. 



corn and bruise of the sole is simply this : the first is an injury pro- 
duced by a cause which is always within the control of the proprietor, 
and which, if neglected, is likely to lead to the most disastrous mala- 
dies ; the last is purely an accident, to which any horse at any time is 
liable, and with ordinary care is not likely to give rise to any serious 
consequences. 

Prick of the foot is an injury incurred while the horse is being shod. 
There are two sorts of this accident : one, when the nail penetrates the 
fleshy substance of the sensitive laminae and draws blood ; the other 
is when a nail is driven too fine, or among the soft horn which lines the 
interior of the hoof, and consequently lies near to the sensitive laminae. 
The first is of the more immediate importance ; but the last may be 
equally serious in its eff"ect. As the horse works, the strain upon the 
shoe bends the nail fixed into soft horn. It thus is made to press upon 
the sensitive laminae, and may provoke suppuration. 

To detect whether the smith is at fault, the foot should be first 
squeezed between the pincers as for common 
corn ; then have the nails withdrawn one by 
one, and mark each as it is removed. If one 
appears moist or wet, have the hole of that nail 
freely opened. Let the shoe be replaced, leav- 
ing that nail out. Put a little tow, covered 
with tar, over the wound, and shoe with leather. 
If, however, lameness should still be present, 
the shoe must again be taken ofi" and the in- 
jury treated as recommended for suppurating 
corn. 

Blame the smith who pricks a horse and con- 
ceals the fact ; punish the fellow to the extent 
of your power. But the man who pricks a foot 
and acquaints you with the circumstance, de- 
serves civility. The last enables you to take proper measures, such as 
paring out, etc., and thereby you avoid all unpleasantness. The first 
braves chances with your living property, and deserves to suffer if the 
hazard go against him. 




PEICK OP THE FOOT AND BRUISE 
OF THE SOLE. 

The smaller opening represents 
prick of the foot: the larger 
space indicates bruise of the 
sole. The extent to which 
the horn may be removed, in 
the generality of cases, is also 
indicated. 



QUITTOR. 



This is a severe and painful disease. Many a horse is, at the present 
moment, working with a suppurative wound above the hoof, within the 
interior of which run numerous sinuses. The police arrest the driver 
of the horse when the condition is so bad as permits the collar to wring 



QUITTOR. 355 

the shoulders. Of all other shapes of misery they seem ignorant. Ani- 
mals limp over the stones, every step being an agony ; but the police- 
men look on at such pictures with placid countenances. Horses are 
driven at night in a state of glanders which renders them dangerous to 
mankind ; yet no officer thinks of looking at the head of an animal for 
the sign of suffering or the warning of public peril. Creatures, in every 
stage of misery, may be seen openly progressing along the streets of the 
metropolis ; but so the shoulders be sound, the brute who goads them 
forward performs his office with impunity. Still, it is something gained, 
that the law has recognized the want of man's absolute power over the 
feelings of those creatures intrusted to his care. Let us hope, as knowl- 
edge extends, the legal perceptions will be quickened. It is partly with 
this view that the present "illustrated work" is published. 

Quitter is a terrible disorder. To comprehend thoroughly the pain 
which accompanies it, the reader must understand the structures through 
which it has to penetrate, and the substances it has to absorb. All parts 
are slowly acted upon in proportion as they are lowly organized. Car- 
tilage is the structure into the composition of which no blood-vessels 
enter. Next to cartilage is bone, which, though supplied with vessels, 
is, on account of its mixture with inorganic matter, exposed only to 
slow decay, and the exfoliation of which is effected at a vast expense to 
the vital energy. These substances mainly compose the foot of the 
horse. In addition, there is ligament, almost as slowly acted upon as 
bone; disease in which substance is accompanied by the greatest 
anguish. Horn is an external protection; but that material, though 
an animal secretion, is strictly inorganic : when cut it does not occasion 
pain — neither does it bleed. If a portion of horn should press upon 
the flesh it must be removed by the knife ; for, unlike the more highly- 
gifted structures, there is no chance of its being absorbed. 

The hoof, therefore, being the external covering to the foot of the 
horse, and not being liable to the same action as organic secretions, 
serves to confine pus or matter when generated within its substance. 
Pus could work through the largest organized body ; but it cannot 
escape through the thinnest layer of horn. Now, most of the other 
substances which enter into the composition of the horse's foot are such 
as slowly decay ; but those parts which slowly decay being without 
sensation during health, occasion the most extreme agony when diseased. 

The cause of quittor always is confined pus or matter, which, in its 
effort to escape, absorbs and forms sinuses in various directions within 
the sensitive substances of the hoof. In the hind feet of cart-horses 
quittor generally commences at the coronet; the coronet is wounded or 
bruised by the large calkins or pieces of iron turned up at the back of 



356 



Q U I T T R. 



the hind shoes, which are universally worn by animals of heavy draught. 
Any one who has punctured or cut the coronet of a dead horse knows 
this structure is as difficult to penetrate and as hard to divide as carti- 
lage itself; the consequence of an injury to such a part is, the bruise 
produces death of some deep-seated portion of the compact coronet. 
Nature, after her own fashion, proceeds to cast off that which is with- 
out vitality, or, in other words, she divides the dead from the living tis- 
sues by a line of suppuration; but the matter thus located cannot 
readily escape through the harsh material of the horse's coronet. It is 
confined and becomes corrupt, while the constant motion of the foot 
and the higher organization of the secreting membrane of the horn in- 
clines the pus to take a downward direction. However, it is more dif- 
ficult for pus to pierce the horny sole than to penetrate the coronet ; so 
the effort is renewed above ; numerous pipes or sinuses are thus formed 
upon the sensitive laminae; the fleshy sole is often under-run, and this 
mischief goes on until the coronet, which becomes of enormous size, at 
last yields to the increasing evil. 

Another cause is pricking the sensitive part of the foot with a nail 
during shoeing; the wound generates pus, the pus cannot penetrate the 
horn, and the motion of the coffin-bone causes it to absorb upward, 
until after some time it breaks forth at the coronet. 




DIAGRAM. 



Which supposed the outward covering of the 
coronet and the horny wall of the hoof 
removed, to expose the ravages of quittor, 
when commencing in the coronet of a heavy 
horse. 




The covering of the coronet and horny crust 
supposed to be absent, and exposing the 
manner in which any suppurating injury 
to the sole of the foot ultimately causes a 
wound above the hoof. 



Another cause is corn ; the horse's corn is nothing more than a bruise ; 
the bruise, in some instances, is severe, and takes on the suppurative 
action. The pus, as before, is confined, and by the motion of the coffin- 
bone it is propelled upward till it breaks forth at the coronet, which, as 
before, enlarges to deformity; in short, any injury done to the sole of 
the foot or to the coronet above it may produce quittor. 

The leading sign of quittor, before it breaks, is a large swelling at 
the coronet, attended with heat and excessive lameness. In cart-horses, 
it is usually present in the hind feet ; but in the lighter species it more 
frequently occurs in the fore feet. It generally appears upon the inner 



QUIT TOR. 



35T 



side of the hoof, though, of course, it has often been witnessed upon 
the outer coronet. Quittor becomes a huge swelling before it breaks. 
The amount of tumefaction symbolizes the amount of anguish; i'l is, 
indeed, a most painful disorder. 





A QUITTOR, AS IT DENOTES ITS EXISTENCE 
BEFORE THE PUS ABSORBS ITS WAT 
THRODGH THE CORONET. 



A QUITTOB, AFTER THE PUS HAS FOUND AN 
EXIT AT THE CORONET. 



The animal, after the pus has found vent, becomes easier; fever 
departs ; the appetite returns, and the enlargement greatly diminishes. 

In the cure of a quittor, all depend upon the time during which the 
disease has been allowed to exist; if brought under notice at first, 
and from an examination a belief is confirmed that the sinuses are 
wholly superficial, no treatment is comparable to the plan of slitting 
them up, the method of doing which will be described in a subsequent 
chapter ; this at once affords relief. The horse, which was limping 
lame, upon getting up puts the foot fearlessly to the ground, and trots 
sound. 

If we have reason to believe the matter has burrowed inwardly, and 
that one or more sinuses have penetrated the carti- 
lages and threaten the deeper-seated parts, still we 
should settle with the knife all those pipes which 
are superficial. This gives a better view of the 
structures supposed to be diseased ; then, if among 
the matter thrown out by the healing wounds there 
is seen a speck or two of fluid, which, being gelatin- 
ous and transparent, looks dark among the opaque, 
creamy pus, be sure there remains further work to be 
accomplished. 

Cut a small twig from the stable broom ; this is 
pliable, and, where a sinus is concerned, makes the 
best possible probe. With a knife, render it perfectly clean, as well as 
round or blunt at one end ; then, while an assistant holds up the foot, 
insert it in the center of the dark fluid. If it should not at first detect 
an opening, you must not give up the trial ; the probe must be moved 
about, and even a smaller one procured. A sinus does exist; of that 
you have positive proof; the pipe being found, mix some powdered 




DIAGRAM. 

An attempt to depict the 
siii.all size of tlie trans- 
parent fluid, indicating 
the existence of asinus, 
when it appears at the 
wound whence issues 
the stream of thick and 
creamy pus. 



358 CANKER. 

corrosive sublimate with three times its bulk of flour ; then wet the probe ; 
dip the probe into the powder and afterward insert it into the sinus. 
Do this several times till you feel certain that every portion of the pipe 
is brought in contact with the caustic. 

The horse, subsequently, will become very dull ; the foot will grow 
very painful : thus it will continue for two days. About the third day, 
a white, curd-like matter is discharged from the orifice. The lameness 
disappears, and the spirits are regained. 

It is against our inclination to publish such directions ; but tne author 
has knowledge of no gentler or more speedy measure. The better plan 
for the gentleman who is tender of his servants' feelings, and infinitely 
the cheaper for the person who is regardful of his pocket, is to have 
every animal inspected by a qualified veterinary surgeon so soon as it 
displays acute lameness. Were such the practice, corn, prick of the foot, 
or wound of the coronet need not run on to quittor. That is an a8"ec- 
tion which loudly pronounces man to utterly disregard the welfare of his 
most willing slave. It always originates in neglect. It always requires 
time for its development. It springs from that idle and silly maxim 
which, when a horse falls lame, treats the circumstance as though the 
honest animal were shamming, and teaches a hard-hearted proprietor to 
work the poor drudge sound again. 

CANKER. 

Thrush, is a disease that causes a certain liquid to be secreted which 
has the property of decomposing the horn. Canker is a disease which 
not only is attended with a liquid having a like property, but the last- 
named affection also causes fungoid horn to be secreted. Canker, there- 
fore, appears to be an aggravation of thrush ; and anybody who has 
been much among the animals of the poorer classes may have observed 
these diseases lapse into each other : thrush will, through neglect, become 
canker. 

Thrush appears to be the commencement of the disorganization of the 
food. Canker is the total perversion of the secreting powers belonging 
to the same organ. In thrush, a foul humor having a corruptive prop- 
erty is poured forth. In canker, something is superadded to this. The 
horn itself is sent forth in large quantity as a soft, unhealthy material, 
totally divested of elasticity and devoid of all healthy resistance. 

Any animal, being exposed to the exciting cause, may exhibit thrush ; 
but, before canker seems capable of being produced, poor living must- 
have undermined the constitution. Old horses — pensioners, as they are 
humanely termed — when turned out to grass, frequently have canker^ 



CANKER. 359 

which otherwise should be confined to the animals of poverty, on which 
bad lodging, no grooming, stinted food, and hard work produce sad 
eflfects. The stable in which a case of canker occurs is lamentably dis- 
graced. Every attendant in it ought to be discharged, as the surest 
evidence of a gross want of industry is thereby afforded. 

A horse, perhaps once the pride of the favorite daughter, may descend 
to be the hack of some bawling dust collector. Its wants increase as 
age progresses ; but with the accumulation of years its hardships aug- 
ment. It is sad, very sad, to stand within the shed of some corn-chand- 
ler, and witness, as the day draws in, ragged boys advance and shout 
out, "Three pen'orth o' 'ay bunds." Upon those hay-bands it is even 
more sad to reflect what creature will be obliged to subsist — probably the 
darling once of some aristocratic children ! Now, cramped and diseased, it 
may receive no other food between this time and the following evening. 
The diet being meager, all the rest is on a parallel. The wretched ani- 
mal is purchased only for such a space as it may'pull through before it 
passes to the knackers. Every day of life is looked upon as a clear gain, 
for the carcass may be sold for very nigh the price which has been paid 
for the living body. The commonest attention is denied ; its bed is filth, 
and its nightly hay-bands are cast upon the flooring. 

What, the humane reader may inquire, can be done to prevent such a 
state of things ? Something surely might be accomplished. To make 
men good, it is first necessary to educate them by communicating knowl- 
edge and also by preventing the commission of wickedness. Were the 
sanitary laws enforced in their spirit, no man would keep an animal who 
had not proper accommodation for the creature he possessed as a prop- 
erty. A horse or a donkey consumes much more air than any human 
being. The air ejected from the lungs of a quadruped is deprived of all 
life-sustaining qualities. The filth of a stable is as corruptive as any 
cess-pool connected with a laborer's cottage. The atmosphere which 
can in the horse engender disease cannot promote health in the superior 
animal. Yet how does it happen that, while sanitary reports are elo- 
quent upon filth and fluent about cess-pools — while they descant learnedly 
upon foul abodes, and enter into all particulars concerning corrupted 
atmosphere — the close, contaminated stables in which all costermongers, 
and some gentlemen, shut up their drudges when the labor of the day is 
over, are never alluded to, are altogether abjured, as though such nui- 
sances had no existence ? 

Canker, like thrush, is not generally attended with much lameness. 
It often astonishes us that, with a foot in such a condition, the animal 
can progress so soundly. It invariably commences at the seat of thrush 
or in the cleft of the frog. A liquid more abominable than that of thrush. 



360 



CANKER. 



and rather more abundant, issues from that part. Likewise it frequently 
exudes from the commissures, which unite the horny sole to the frog. 
The horn, also, becomes not only disorganized, but more ragged than in 
thrush. It bulges out at first, and ultimately flakes off, exposing a sub- 
stance not much more resistant than orange-peel. The substance is horn 
in a fungoid state. Its fibers run from the center to the circumference ; 
and between the space of each fiber is lodged a clear liquid, which be- 
comes tainted and dark colored by mingling with the horn that it dissolves 
and corrupts. 

The fungus is secreted in quantity, and always is most abundant when 
located about the edge of the sole. Here the papillae are largest, and 




THE PRIMART ESTABLISHMENT OF CONFIRMED 

CANKER. 

The horn turned back, bo as to display the altered 
state of the frog, which indicates a severe attack 
of the disease. 




THE SECOND STAGE OP CANKER. 

Showing the great abundance of fungoid horn 
secreted around the margin of the foot. No 
notice is pui-posely taken of the frog in this 
illustration. 



here the granulations attain their greatest magnitude. The unresistant 
horn of canker becomes somewhat hard upon the surface of the sole, and 
large flakes peel off. Cut into, it displays no sensation ; and this is for- 
tunate, inasmuch as it considerably reduces the difficulties surrounding 
the treatment of a badly-cankered foot. 

Concerning treatment, when the disease is confined to one hind foot, 
or even affects both posterior feet, the case may be undertaken with some 
degree of confidence. When it has involved one or more of the fore 
feet, it is always difficult to eradicate ; and, in the majority of cases — 
being guided by the age of the animal — a cure had better not be 
attempted. 

When a horse is cankered all round, the disease is apt to seem capri- 
cious. It may be cured in three feet ; but it will linger in the fourth, 
resisting art's resources. Suddenly measures before tried in vain seem 
to be endowed with marvelous efficacy. The diseased member, which 
hitherto no treatment could touch, now heals as by its own accord. 
However, before we can express tlie full of our satisfaction, canker once 



CANKER. 361 

more breaks out again in one of the feet which had been cured ; thus 
the affection dodges about till patience is exhausted. 

Canker has hitherto been reckoned an intractable disorder. It is 
mostly seen in heavy horses, with weak, flat feet. These creatures pro- 
verbially receive but little grooming. They are esteemed only for their 
labor, and honored with small attention, which does not decidedly fit 
them for their work. Their stables are seldom to be cited as examples 
of what a horse's home should be. Their beds are never too clean; and 
a number of foul disorders, as thrush, grease, etc., are located among 
them. Their food is generally measured by the scale of profit and loss ; 
for few cart-horses, in the generality of establishments, can boast of any 
extraordinary care being lavished on their comfort. 

For the treatment of canker, the first thing is to attend to the stable. 
See that the building is lofty and well drained ; that the ventilation is 
perfect, and the bedding unexceptionable. Then inspect the water, the 
oats, and the hay. Allow the horse a liberal support, and with each 
feed of oats mingle a handful of old beans. These things being arranged, 
order the animal into the forge. Cut away every portion of detached 
horn. When that is done, pare off carefully so much of the soft, diseased 
horn as the knife can readily separate. Then apply a dressing of the 
following strength to the diseased parts : — 

Chloride of zinc Half an ounce. 

Common flour Four ounces. 

Mix, and apply dry on the foot. 

To the sound parts use — 

Chloride of zinc Four grains. 

Flour One ounce. 

Cover over the sound parts before you begin to dress the fungoid gran- 
ulations. 

Afterward tack on the shoe. Pad well, so as to obtain all the pressure 
possible ; and fasten the padding on the foot by means of cross pieces 
of iron driven firmly under the shoe. Let the horse be carefully groomed, 
and receive four hours' exercise daily. 

On the second day remove the padding. Cut off so much of the gran- 
ulations as appear to be in a sloughing condition. Repeat the dressing, 
and continue examining and redressing the foot every second day. 
When some places appear to be in a state of confirmed health, an appli- 
cation of the following strength should be employed to such parts ; but 
where the granulations continue to sprout, or the horn appears to be of 
a doubtful character, the caustic mixtures of the original strength must 
be used : — 



362 CANKER. 

Chloride of zinc Two grains. 

Flour ; One ounce. 

After some time, the dressings may be lengthened to every third day, 
but should not be carried to the distance which some practitioners rec- 
ommend. When so long a period elapses between each examination, 





THE BOTTOM OF A HORSE'S FOOT ^I, IMPROVEMENT IN A CANKERED rOOT. 

■WHICH HAS BEEN DRESSED FOR , „, . , , , , 

CANKER SHOWING HOW THE 1. That portion 01 a Cankered loot wmch 18 advancing 

CROSS PIECES ABE PLACED AND toward a healthy condition. 

PIXED. 2. Canker in a mitigated form, but still present. 

the foul and irritating discharge, being confined, does more injury than 
the delay can possibly produce good. 

In the plan of treatment here proposed, the chief reliance is placed 
on the action of chloride of zinc. It is the peculiar property of that 
agent to suppress fungoid granulations. The author has some experi- 
ence in the use of this salt. Whenever he gave it to a groom to apply, 
and subsequently he found the wound clogged with proud flesh, the man 
was accused of having neglected to employ the lotion. The evidence on 
which the charge was made never, in a single instance, proved erroneous. 
To suppress fungoid granulation is to cure canker. 

The application here advised is, moreover, cleanly. It is the most 
powerful disinfectant. It does not discolor, like the messes now in gen- 
eral use. It is more gentle in its action than undiluted sulphufic acid, 
etc. etc. It will cause none of those terrible fits of agony, during which 
all applications have to be removed, while the foot has to be bathed and 
poulticed. Notwithstanding all authors agree that the absence of water 
and the presence of pressure are indispensable to the cure of canker, the 
frequent dressings will not endanger the life, nor leave the foot in that 
condition which entails a deformed hoof upon the horse for the remainder 
of its existence. 



THRUSH. 



363 



THRUSH. 




THRUSH IN THE FORK 
FOOT, WITH A THICK 
CRUST, A CONCAVE 
SOLE, AND A SMALL 
FROa. 



Veterinary writers are very fond of splitting hairs about words. 
Thrush, therefore, in most books, becomes "frush ;" notwithstanding, if 
the reader should consult any professional authority, or 
a professor at either of the colleges, the person so ap- 
pealed to will decidedly designate the disease as it is 
here spelled. The disorder therefore bears, in these pages, 
the name it carries in ordinary speech, and all far-fetched 
distinctions are discarded. 

Thrush is a foul discharge issuing from the cleft of the 
frog, and attended with disorganization of the horn. It 
is derived from two causes — either internal disease or bad 
stable management. When internal disease gives rise to 
thrush, it is present in the fore foot. The quarters of the 
hoof are strong and high ; the sole is thick and concave ; the frog small 
and ragged. When bad stable management provokes the disorder, it 
shows itself in the hind foot, which may be of any shape ; but the frog 
is generally large, while the discharge is more copious than in the former 
instance. 

It is sad to think that the creature which lives but to toil, and whose 
existence is a type of such slavery that its greatest freedom is to labor, 
should be begrudged the bed whereon it reposes, or be doomed to stand 
in filth which will generate disease. The horse's foot is not very suscep- 
tible to external influences. It is incased in a hard and inorganic, yet 
elastic substance. Thus protected, it appears like praising the ingenuity 
of man when we say such a body is not proof against his neglect. The 
hoof is made to travel through mud and through water ; 
it is created to canter over sand and over stones. It is 
capable of all its purposes ; but it only seems not fitted 
to be soaking days and nights in the filth of a human 
lazar-house. The drainage of the stable is too often 
clogged ; the ventilation bad ; the bedding rotten, and 
more than half composed of excrement. All that passes 
through the body, from the inclination of the flooring, thrush in the hind 
tends toward the hind feet. Over this muck the animal 
breathes. In it the creature stands, and on it the victim reposes. 

No wonder the horn rots when implanted in a mass of fermenting filth. 
The fleshy, secreting parts, which it is the office of the hoof to protect, 
ultimately become afifected ; they take on a peculiar form of irritation ; 
from the cleft of the frog a discharge issues ; it becomes colored and 





364 THRUSH. 

oflfensivo through being mixed with the decaying horn ; the smell is most 
abhorrent ; frequently it taints the interior of the place, and to the edu- 
cated nose thus makes known its presence. 

The first thing is to clear the stable, then to cleanse it thoroughly. 
Bed down the stalls with new straw, and attend to the 
animals themselves. Wash the feet well with water, in 
every pint of which is dissolved two scruples of chlo- 
ride of zinc. The fetor will thus be destroyed, and the 
animal be made approachable. Place some of the fluid, 
to be used as required, near the smith, while the man 
cuts away the diseased frog. All the ragged parts 
^^ABUND^NCTTF^wmiE ^^® ^^ bc cxclsed. The knife is to be employed until 
CAYE*D horJ^aniToft'en ^^^ ^^^ whltc, powdcry substance is effectually removed. 
GEr"poRTiLr^p"i" The knife must then be used fearlessly. Every par- 
beex^rmioved" ^""^^ ^^^^® '^^ *^® colorless investment of the frog must be 
excised. This is absolutely necessary toward the cure. 
It must be accomplished, although the flesh be exposed, or a large, 
bulging frog be reduced to the dimensions indicated 
in the annexed engraving. 

Then the shoe is to be nailed on, and the horse to 
be returned to a clean stall. 

The cause being removed, the effect will soon cease. 
No ointments are required. A little of the chloride 
of zinc lotion, three grains to the ounce of water, may 
be left in the stable, and the keeper should receive 
directions to bathe the frog with this once a day, or oftener if required. 
A piece of stick, having a little tow wrapped round one end, should also 
be given to the man, so that he may force the fluid between the cleft of 
the frog. No greasy dressing need be employed. The ordinary shoe 
is to be used. The diseased part is to be left perfectly uncovered, so 
that it may be the more exposed to the sweetening effects of pure air, 
while the earliest indication of any further necessity for the knife may 
be readily perceived. When the stench has disappeared, a little of the 
liquor of lead, of its original strength, will perfect the cure ; and all that 
is requisite to prevent a return of the disorder is a reasonable attention 
to the cleanliness of the stable. 

At this place, however, the reader may well reflect that, if the filth of 
the stable is capable of rotting the resistant and insensitive horn of the 
horse's foot, how much more is it likely to affect some of those delicate 
structures of which the bulky frame of the animal is composed ! The 
air in which a man might object to live is altogether unfit for a horse to 
inhale. It is true, animals have breathed such an atmosphere, and con- 




THRUSH. 365 

tinued to exist. So, also, is it true that men have been scavengers, and 
have followed that calling on account of what they esteemed its extraor- 
dinary healthfulness. Neither case establishes aught. The animal is 
by nature formed for large draughts of pure air. All other sustenance 
is as nothing, if the primary necessity of life be withheld. Tainted 
atmosphere is the soilrce of more than half the evils horse-flesh is ex- 
posed to. Glanders, farcy, inflammation of the air-passages, indigestion, 
bowel complaints, — in fact, all diseases save those of a local character 
may spring from such a parent. Let every horse-keeper, therefore, if 
from no higher motive, at all events to conserve his property and to 
promote his pecuniary interest, be especially careful about the purity of 
his stables. 

When thrush occurs in the fore feet, it is generally significant of 
navicular disease, and is most frequent in horses which step short or go 
groggily. The hoof feels hot and hard ; a slight moisture bedews the 
central parting of the very much diminished frog. No odor may be smelt 
when the foot is taken up ; but by inserting a piece of tow into the cleft 
of the frog, the presence of the characteristic symptom will be made 
unpleasantly apparent. 

In this case, it is best to remove the ragged thrush and unsound horn, 
doing so, if required, even to the exposure of the sensitive frog. After- 
ward, simply wash the part with a little of the chloride of zinc and 
water, previously recommended. Repeat the cleansing every morning; 
the intention being, not to remove the thrush, as the horse mostly goes 
lame the instant that is stopped, but merely to correct the pungency of 
the morbid discharge, and thus prevent it in some measure from decay- 
ing the horn. 

Clay, cow-dung, and other favorite filths, employed for stopping the 
horse's feet, if long continued, will produce thrush. 

The worst specimen of the affection the author has encountered, was 
in a horse which had been turned into a moist straw-yard and neglected. 
The thrush generally witnessed in the hind feet may be present in all 
four; but the writer knows of no instance in which the thrush peculiar 
to the fore feet was also observed in the posterior limbs. 

Thrush does not generally provoke lameness. In its more aggravated 
forms, however, it interferes with the pace; and the horse having only- 
incipient thrush is liable to drop suddenly, if the foot be accidentally 
placed upon a rolling stone. Now, knowing our roads are made of 
stones, and that the bottom of the horse's foot is, in the ordinary man- 
ner of shoeing, entirely unprotected, it is curious to state tliat this dis- 
ease is commonly not esteemed unsoundness. Any thrush, when present, 
may lead to acute lameness; tlien the lameness would be unsoundness; 




366 OSSIFIED CARTILAGES. 

if thrush simply interferes with the action, although it endanger the 
safety of the rider, it is, by the code of veterinary legislation, esteemed 
no reasonable objection to the soundness of a horse. In the author's 
opinion, any animal should be esteemed unsound which has suffered 
from loss of or from change of any structure that ought to be present, 
or has any affection which reasonably could subject it to remedial 
treatment. 

OSSIFIED CARTILAGES. 

This signifies a conversion into osseous structure of the cartilages 
naturally developed upon the wings of the coffin-bone, or the bone 
of the foot. Here is a drawing of the largest specimen of this trans- 
formation which the writer ever witnessed. 
This was borrowed from the museum of 
T. W. Gowing, Esq.; and, from the mag- 
nitude of the disease, the writer should 
imagine the posterior of the pastern must 
have been in the living animal somewhat 
deformed. 
o.^siriED CARTILAGES. jjj hcavy horsBS, working upon London 

''tl:*T„SLTcraL*e'^ «to°e«' SO certain are the cartilages to be- 

bone; being now continuous with the (>q^q ossificd that scvcral large firms pay 

OS pedis. o t^ J 

no attention to this defect. They prefer 
an animal with a confirmed disease to a sound horse, which will be cer- 
tain to be ill during the change, and the extent of whose subsequent 
alteration no one can predicate. So far these purchasers act wisely; 
but, in horses designed for fast work, ossified cartilages are a serious 
defect. They frequently occasion lameness, and always interfere with 
the pleasantness of the rider's seat. When accompanied by ring-bone, 
ossified cartilages give rise to the most acute and irremediable lameness. 
Ossified cartilages are incurable. No drugs can force Nature to re- 
store the original structure which has been destroyed. Once let a car- 
tilage become ossified, and it remains in that condition for the creature's 
life. There is little difficulty in ascertaining when this change has taken 
place. The hand grasps the foot just above the coronet; the fingers are 
on one side, and the thumb upon the other. The cartilages lie at this 
place, immediately under the skin. Cartilage is soft, pliable, and semi- 
elastic. It yields very readily to pressure. However, when the thumb 
and fingers forcibly press the part, if, instead of feeling the substance 
under them yield, the hand is sensible only of something as hard as stone, 
or any way approaching to such a character, that is proof positive the 




ACUTE LAMINITIS. 367 

cartilages are ossified, or are approaching change. If the horse has 
recently gone lame, and the seat of cartilages feels of a mixed nature — 
partly soft and partly hard — apply a 
blister to the coronet, so as to convert 
that which is a subacute process into an 
acute action, and with the cessation of 
activity hope to stop the deposit. Re- 
peat the blister if absolutely necessary; 
but there is no occasion to subject more 
than the coronet, and a couple of inches 
above that structure, to the operation of 
the vesicatory. Indeed, blisters act more 

~, , ,, ^1 mi • THE CERTAIN TEST FOE OSSIFIED CARTILAGES. 

enectually upon confined spaces. This 

is all that can be accomplished, save by good feeding and liberal usage : 
these are essential, because every abnormal change denotes a deranged 
system; and this is, in the animal, soonest mended by generous diet. 
Perfect rest and two pots of stout per day may even be allowed, should 
the pulse be at all feeble. 



ACUTE LAMINITIS, OR FEVER IN THE FEET. 

This term implies that the disease is confined to the laminae; the 
word certainly warrants an inference that the other secreting surfaces 
within the hoof are .not implicated; such a meaning is generally con- 
ceived to be intended. The name, by inducing erroneous opinion, does 
much injury; the old appellation of fever in the feet is, therefore, much 
more characteristic and altogether more correct. 

The entire of the fleshy portion of the foot is involved in this terrible 
affliction ; any man, who has had an abscess beneath some part where 
the cuticle is strong, or who has endured a whitlow, may very distantly 
imagine the pain suffered by the horse during fever of the feet. Such 
an individual, if his creative powers be very brilliant, may vaguely con- 
jecture the torture sustained by the quadruped ; but no power possibly 
can realize to the full the anguish sustained by the animal. Man does 
not, like the horse, rest upon his finger's end, and, if he did, the pain he 
would then suffer could not be likened to the terrible affliction borne by 
the animal, for the following reasons : What is the weight of any man 
to that of a quadruped ? What is the thickness of his skin or the sub- 
stance of his nail to the hardness and stoutness of the horse's hoof? 
The human skin is elastic, and the end of the finger permits some swell- 
ing of its fleshy portion ; but the secreting membrane of the horse's foot 
lies between two materials almost equally unyielding. Bone is within, 



368 ACUTE LAMINITIS. 

and horn is without; the heat soon dries the last and deprives it of its 
elasticity ; the first is naturally unyielding ; thus the secreting substance, 
largely supplied with blood, because of inflammation, and acutely en- 
dowed with sensation when swollen and diseased, is compressed between 
the two bodies 5s in a vice. To conceive the amount of anguish and to 
imagine the violence of the disorder, we have only to recognize the 
pathological law, that Nature is conservative in all her organizations ; 
she protects parts in proportion to their importance to the welfare of her 
creatures, and reluctantly allows injury to be inflicted on any vital organ, 
though she may even permit deprivation of those members which are 
not essential to the animal economy. 

A man may lose a leg; he can live, enjoy life, and to a certain extent 
effect progression with a wooden substitute. Touch the heart of a man, 
however, and being ends. The heart is guarded by the ribs, and so 
securely is it protected that, even in battle, the organ is seldom punc- 
tured ; the hoof of the horse is almost as important to the animal as is 
the heart to the human being. In a free state progression is necessary 
to the support of the body; when domesticated, the horse is valued 
according to its power to progress. 

Yet, the member so important to the . creature is, by the nature of 
laminitis, frequently disorganized, and a valuable quadruped, by the 
affliction, may be reduced from the highest price to a knacker's purchase 
money. 

There is some dispute about the kind of hoof most liable to this dis- 
ease. English authors incline toward the weak or slanting hoof. Con- 
tinental writers, however, suppose the strong or upright hoof is most 
exposed to the affliction. Neither party, however, assert any kind of 
hoof to be exempt ; therefore, it may be supposed, were all circum- 
stances similar, every kind of foot would be equally subjected to 
laminitis. 

There is but one cause for acute laminitis — man's brutality. Horses 
driven far and long over hard, dry roads, frequently exhibit the disease. 
Cab and post, as well as gentlemen's horses, after a fine day at Epsom 
or at Ascot, not unfrequently display the disorder. Animals which have 
to stand and strain the feet for any period, as cavalry horses upon a long 
sea voyage, if, upon lauding, they are imprudently used without sufficient 
rest, will assuredly fail with this incapacitating malady. Any extraor- 
dinary labor may induce laminitis. Hunters, after a hard run, and racers, 
subsequently to heats, are liable to be attacked ; especially should the 
ground be in the state we have before intimated. 

Acute laminitis does not immediately declare itself; the pace of the 
animal, when its work is drawing to a close, may be remarkable ; but 



ACUTE LAMINITIS. 



309 



this is attributed to the effects of exhaustion. The creature reaches the 
stable ; the surface of the body is rubbed over ; the manger and the rack 
are filled; a fresh bed is quickly shaken down, for, in the opinion of 
grooms, quiet does horses extreme good. The animal is left for the 
night, under the impression that it has everything one of the race could 
require. 

The next morning the horse is found all of a heap, and the food un- 
touched; the flesh is quivering; the eyes are glaring; the nostrils are 
distended, and the breath' is jerking. The flanks are tucked up, the 
back is reached, the head is erect, and the mouth is firmly closed; the 
hind legs are advanced, to take the bearing from the inflamed fore mem- 
bers ; the front feet are pushed forward, so as to receive the least pos- 
sible amount of weight, and that upon the heels ; but the feet thus placed 
are constantly on the move. Now, one leg. is slightly bent; then, that 
is down and the other is raised; the horse is, according to a vulgar 
phrase, "dancing on hot irons." 

The first indications — food untouched, glaring eyes, etc. — represent 
only excessive agony; the position of the body is symptomatic. The 
hind feet are thrust under the 
body in order to take the weight 
from the front, or the diseased 
organs; the fore feet are thrust 
forward and the head held erect, 
that the inflamed parts may be 
as much as possible beyond the 
center of gravity. In this atti- 
tude the wretched quadruped 
will stand, its sides heaving and 
its flesh creeping with the pain 
within the hoofs, and with the 
fire that burns within the blood. 
The teeth are occasionally heard 
to grind against each other ; ex- 
pressive sounds sometimes issue from the throat, and partial perspirations 
burst forth upon the body ; it is a horrible picture of the largest agony I 

The fore feet are mostly the seat of the disorder ; all four may be in- 
volved, but the author has only witnessed the two front affected. The 
implication of the others are rather recorded wonders than general facts. 
The writer, in his professional experience, has met no one to whom a 
case of laminitis involving all four hoofs has been submitted. 

Everything concerning laminitis is in confusion. It is not yet author- 
itatively ascertained whether horses lie down or stand up — whether the 

24 




ACUTE LAMINITIS, OR FEVER IN THE PEET. 



370 



ACUTE LAMINITIS. 



shoes sliould be taken off or left on — and what kind of treatment it is 
proper to adopt. Any dispute about general "facts pronounces both 
parties wrong; it assures us that the experience of the disputants is 
somewhat limited. The circumstances cannot be very marked where the 
recognition is not universal : the treatment can only be not confirmed, 
because none attended with conspicuous benefit has been proposed. 

Horses do often lie down in laminitis ; but they more generally stand. 
When down, they should be suffered to remain; and when up, the first 
thing done should be the employment of slings. Place the cloth under 
the belly with the least possible noise ; the man the horse is accustomed 
to, with orders to soothe the animal when alarm is excited, should be 
stationed at the head. The men who are arranging the slings should 
pause on the slightest sign of fear, and only resume their labor when 




A HORSE IN SLINGS, WITH THE FORE FEET IN HOT WATEE, FOR ACCTE LAMINITIS. 

confidence is restored. The ropes, however, must not be drawn tight 
and fixed. The ends of the cords should, by means of two extra pul- 
leys, be carried to some distance from the animal. To the end of each 
rope ought to be fastened a stout ring, and on this, by means of hooks, 
weights should be suspended. As the weights are added, the man should 
caress the sufferer till sufiicient counterpoise be attached to take the 
principal bearing from the feet without offering much obstacle to the 
breathing. 

With regard to the shoes, we should first soften the hoof by allowing 
the feet to soak in warm water in which a portion of any alkali has been 
dissolved. The slings being applied, the fore feet are to be placed in a 
trough of hot, soft water, and allowed to remain there till the hoof is 
quite pulpy. Then one foot is to be gently raised and the trough par- 




ACUTE LAMINITIS. 311 

tially removed. All this must be done very quietly — not a word being 
spoken — and all operation suspended at the appearance of the smallest 
alarm. The man at the head must not for an instant quit his post. 

The foot being released from the water, a sharp-pointed knife is to be 
employed and the horn cut, so as to free every nail, till the shoe drops 
off; but the iron should not be allowed to clatter on the ground. 

This method is infinitely better than the common practice of taking 
off the horse's shoe. The smith removes the 
shoe by a wrench, using his pliers for the pur- 
pose of gaining extra power. No doubt the 
metal had much better remain on than be thus 
rudely displaced. But, in removing the shoe 
from a softened foot, no smith is necessary, and 
no smith should be employed : the veterinary ^^Lsf which Tsten "n 
surgeon should himself cut out the nails; and l^fJ^Zt^^nT n^S's 
no matter if an hour or two be occupied over ™op during acute lami- 
each foot. In laminitis there must be no hurry. 

Before the shoes are removed, half a drachm of belladonna and fif- 
teen grains of digitalis should be placed in the horse's mouth. Both 
drugs should be gently introduced, not as a draught or a ball, but in 
substance, or in the smallest possible bulk. These medicines should be 
repeated every half hour, till the breathing is easier and the pulse some- 
what altered in character. Then some additional weight may be added 
to the slings; and, by taking advantage of similar opportunities, the 
animal may be eventually lifted almost off the ground without display- 
ing any inclination to resist. 

When the horse is in this position, open the jugular vein with a lan- 
cet, making the least possible flurry. Abstract one quart of blood, 



THE STRINQE TO BE EMPLOYED TO INJECT BIOOD-'WAEM ' WATER INTO THE VEINS DURINS ACUTE lAMINlTIS. 
THE MARK ON THE ROD DENOTES HOW FAB THE HANDLE IS TO BE PUSHED DOWN. (See Enteritis, p. 170.) 

which may be obtained with the greatest ease. Have ready a quart 
syringe filled with water; inject one pint into the orifice whence two 
pints of blood have been abstracted. The effect will be produced in a 
few minutes. Copious purgation and perspiration will ensue, and the 
fever will be greatly abated. Clothe the horse well up. Place before 
him a pail of thin gruel with a bundle of green-meat, and enough has 
been done for one day. But mind and leave two men to watch in the 
stable throughout the first three nights. 



372 ACUTE LAMINITIS. 

On the following morning give a dose of ether and laudanum — twji 
ounces of both in a pint of water. Let the horse take his own time in 
swallowing : do not care if half the drink should be lost. In fact, if 
the attempt to give the physic should call forth much opposition, abstain 
from administering it : quiet is of more importance than medicine. On 
that account, strict orders should be given to admit no visitors, and the 
strictest injunction concerning silence should be enforced. 

The pulse and breathing must be watched ; and, as either appear to 
augment, the drugs before recommended must be introduced. Should 
the artery on either side of the pastern throb, that sign indicates the foot 
to be congested. This condition must be relieved. With a lancet open 
both pastern veins, which are sure to be in a swollen state, and plunge 
the foot up to the fetlock in warm water. A little blood abstracted by 
this method does more good than the ample venesections so generally 
advised, but which, from their tendency to lower the system, are apt to 
prepare the way for the worst terminations to acute laminitis. Our 
object should be to conquer the disease without reducing the strength ; 
had the horse ten times its natural vigor, such an affliction as acute lam- 
initis would more than exhaust it all. The failure of former practition- 
ers has been chiefly owing to their inattention to this fact. 

While the aflTection lasts, these measures must be pertinaciously 
adopted ; the feet, the entire time, must be repeatedly put in warm water, 
not only to soften the horn, but because the chief pain is caused by the 
congested or swollen condition of the secretive portion of the foot ; con- 
gestion, likewise, induces the terminations to be most feared ; heat or 
warmth is perhaps the best means of relieving loaded vessels. Cover 
over the water or blind the horse's eyes while in the slings, because acute 
disease is likely to disorder the vision, and a sick, imprisoned animal is 
too apt to be startled by the reflection of its own image. The author 
has had reason to lament the neglect of such necessary precaution. 

The termination to be feared is disorganization — either from the cast- 
ing of the hoof or the descent of the coffin-bone from its natural situa- 
tion. The first result is preceded by chronic suppuration. A slight 
division is observed between hair and horn ; and from the opening thus 
occasioned a small quantity of unhealthy pus issues, mingled with much 
bloody serum. TJltimately the entire hoof loosens and drops off, exposing 
the fleshy parts beneath. Now, all these fleshy parts must have been 
diseased before they could have separated from their secretion, and such 
fleshy parts are not the laminae only, but all those represented in the 
engravings on page 313. 

The sudden exposure of parts which, during health, are covered and 
protected, cannot otherwise than*cause an extraordinary effect upon the 



ACUTE LAMINITIS. 



3T3 



body of the sufferer. Persons who have lost a nail seldom have that 
substance renewed in all its original integrity. Deformity or an imper- 





THB SENSITIVE LAMINA AND CORONET DIVESTED 
OF THEIR HORNY COVERING. 



THE SENSITIVE SOLE — EROO AND BARS DI- 
VESTED OP THEIR HORNY COVERING. 




DIAGRAM. 

The new horny cover- 
ing which invests the 
foot of the horse after 
sloughing of the hoof, 
as a termination to 
acute laminitis. 



feet secretion is generally retained to mark the deprivation. Nature 
appears averse to the restoration of any of her original structures. 

Such a catastrophe is denominated sloughing of the hoof. After that 
has occurred it is useless to prolong the suffering by 
permitting the horse to live. Doubtless in time a sort 
of new hoof would be produced, but it would only be a 
deformity. It would want the toughness and strength 
of the original formation. 

Such was the hoof which used to succeed sloughing 

under the old plan of treatment ; the author is happy 

to state he has not witnessed such a misfortune since 

'he has followed the practice which he here recommends. 

The suppuration just spoken of was not of the copious 
kind, but -was a tardy secretion mingled with bloody 
serum ; it is astonishing such a fact should not have warned veterinary 
surgeons against following depletive measures. The effusion, however, 
of which the writer has next to speak is entirely the result of weakness. 
It does appear most strange that exhausting treatment should have been 
pursued as with infatuation, despite of so evident a warning. The parts 
which in health only secrete horn, during exhaustion throw out serum, or 
the thinner portion of the blood. This separates the coffin-bone from 
its attachments, while the imposed weight forces the loosened bone from 
its natural position. To make this more clear, diagrams of a natural 
foot, and of one which has suffered distortion from acute laminitis, are 
represented on page 374. In the natural foot, the pedal bone is situated 
close to the outer crust ; in the laminitic foot, the bone is forced down- 
ward toward the sole, which it ultimately penetrates. There is an artery 
running around the lower edge of the coffin-bone ; upon this artery the 
animal, if suffered to live, would, after displacement of the coffin-bone, 
be obliged to tread. The consequence is that a horse, having a foot 
thus distorted, cannot by any possibility take a sound step ; it lives in 
iorture and moves in anguish. 



374 



ACUTE LAMINITIS. 



Thir> formation has been too generally spoken of as pumice foot, 
whereas that peculiarity is altogether distinct. Pumice foot does not 




DIAGRAM. 

A section of the horse's foot, showing the 
natural and relative situations of the 
bones which enter into the formation 
of the horse's foot when in a healthy 
state. 




DIAGRAM. 

A section of the horse's foot after one of 
the terminations to acute laminitis, ex- 
posing the interior of the hoof when 
the coffin-bone has fallen from its orig- 
inal situation. 



entirely incapacitate the horse for labor ; it is a chronic. disease leading 
to a very opposite species of distortion, or to a bulging of the sole such 
as is here illustrated. 





A SECTION OP THE HORSE'S FOOT, ILLUSTRATING THE 
DISTORTION WHICH CONSTITUTES PDMICE FOOT. 



THE DEFORMITY WHICH ENSUES UPON 
DROPPING or THE COFFIN-BONE. 



After dropping of the coffin-bone has taken place, it is commonly said 
that the hoof, struck upon the spot once occupied by the coffin-bone, 
emits a hollow sound ; such is not the fact. 

The space supposed to be empty is immediately filled by an impure 
horn — a soft, transparent substance, which, if the animal be permitted 
to live, dries, or diminishes in bulk, and the front of the hoof falls in. 
The author once beheld, working in a lime-pit near Reigate, an aged 
animal which, some time previous, had suffered dropping of the coffin- 
bone ; the animal was shod with leather, and had a shoe lifted from the 
ground by means of large calkins both before and behind. The hoof, 
however, was terribly misshapen ; it hardly admits of such a description 



SUBACUTE LAMINITIS. 375 

as would be readily understood ; therefore the hoof is represented from 
a sketch made upon the spot. 

The other terminations to acute laminitis are metastasis and mortifi 
cation. 

Metastasis is when the fever leaves the feet to fix upon some other 
and remote part, as the lungs, bowels, brain, eyes, etc. Or, fever of the 
feet is frequently asserted to be caused by the inflammation "dropping" 
from those parts into the hoofs ; when such changes ensue, the body 
being already weakened, the attack is seldom of a very acute type ; but, 
nevertheless, it may be attended by disorganization, by distortion, or 
even by death. 

It is a bad symptom should no change be observed in the course of 
the disorder before the expiration of the fifth day; some sad ending may 
then be expected, but it does not invariably follow. The animal should 
be watched night and day; all that can possibly be done to alleviate 
its suffering should be put into practice. For that end, the writer has 
found nothing equal in its soothing effects to perfect quietude, and good 
gruel made with a portion of linseeds and of beans mixed with oatmeal. 
But be sure that laminitis has departed from the feet before the slings 
are removed ; then, even supposing no metastasis to have occurred, do 
not suddenly take all support from the horse, but remove a weight every 
day, so that the restored parts may become gradually used to their orig- 
inal functions. On the first sign indicative of a return to the disorder, 
restore the full counterpoise and recommence treatment ; for acute lami- 
nitis is somewhat treacherous. Yery cautiously exercise the invalid 
upon a piece of meadow land ; and, as the health appears restored, 
gradually return to the usual method of treatment. 

SUBACUTE LAMINITIS. 

This is a variety of the former disease ; the characteristic differences 
between the two are thus stated by the esteemed late William Percival : 

" In neither form is laminitis the disease of the unbroken or unused 
horse. Now and then acute laminitis will appear in the four or five year 
old horse when newly taken into work ; more commonly it is witnessed 
incapacitating the horse when at work, and during the middle period of 
life. Subacute laminitis, on the other hand, is very apt to select the 
aged and worked animal. Secondly, acute laminitis is the immediate 
effect of labor, hard either from its distressful character or its endurance. 
Subacute laminitis, on the contrary, will make its appearance in the 
stable where the horse has been for some time living in a state of idle- 
ness or absolute rest. Thirdly, acute laminitis makes its attack directly 



376 SUBACUTE LAMINITIS. 

or shortly after tlie application of the exciting cause ; subacute laminitis 
approaches so gradually that it is often present "some days before its 
existence is discovered. Fourthly, acute laminitis is marked by great 
suffering and accompanied by raging fever ; in subacute laminitis fever 
is not to be detected, and the mode of progression alone indicates suffer- 
ing. Fifthly, acute laminitis may terminate in metastasis, suppuration, 
and mortification ; in subacute laminitis neither of these issues is to be 
dreaded, for, if we do not succeed in producing resolution, dropping of 
the coffin-bone is the customary ending to the disorder." 

The above, quoted from memory, presents a graphic contrast and an 
admirable portrait of the disorder. It is so eloquent in its brevity that 
it leaves nothing to be added ; therefore the author will at once proceed 
to state his views of the subject. 

Subacute laminitis is always first noticed in the manner of progress- 
ing. The master complains that the horse has become slower ; that the 
whip has lost influence over the body ; and that the animal, when pro- 
gressing, appears to jolt more than usual. This last observation indi- 
cates the kind of horses to which subacute laminitis is principally con- 
fined. Acute laminitis is almost the property of fast saddle-horses ; the 
subacute variety more especially belongs to harness-horses. The author 




THE MANNER OP PROGRESSINa WHEN SUFFERING UNDER SUBACUTE LAJHNITIS. 

has lately seen specimens of the subacute disease tugging those vehicles 
which were once fashionable and which were called "cabriolets." The 
animal suffering this disorder endeavors to bring the heels only to the 
ground. All its fumbling gait, its supposed sluggishness, and want of 
appreciation for the whip are to be attributed to this desire — to take the 
weight as much as possible from the seat of agony. 

The success of treatment, in a great measure, depends upon the disor- 
der being early detected. Get the horse immediately into slings, as was 
directed for acute laminitis, and proceed in the same manner with the 



NAVICULAR DISEASE. S>i^ 

removal of the shoe. Omit all bleeding. If the bowels are costive, 
allow a portion of green-meat until the evil is removed ; but do not 
produce purgation. All medicine of a debilitating character must be 
withheld. Grive, night and morning, a quart of stout ; allow two drinks, 
each containing one ounce of ether, in half a pint of water, during the 
day. This, with half-drachm doses of belladonna as needed to allay any 
symptoms of pain, will constitute the whole of the treatment. 

As regards food, it should consist of sound oats previously ground, 
and a moderate allowance of crushed, old beans. The water should be 
whitened, and all hay strictly withheld. The animal should not be left 
night or day, and gentleness should be enjoined upon its attendant. The 
food, however, should not be without limit; five feeds of corn are enough 
for one day, if the horse will eat so niuch. 

Should dropping of the coffin-bone end the attack, it is only charity 
to terminate the existence. In Mr. W. Percival's admirable work the 
reader will find described at length a method proposed for restoring the 
bone to its original position. The author has seen that plan tried more 
than once, but never beheld any good result. The knacker has, in every 
case, been called in to finish the unsuccessful experiment. 

The horse, however, which recovers from an attack of laminitis, either 
in the acute or subacute form, should ever after be shod with leather ; 
and were this admirable practice universal, probably, by deadening con- 
cussion, it might altogether eradicate the disease. The expense is the 
objection to its adoption ; but against the cost, the horse proprietor has 
to ask himself, What are a few shillings extra, at each shoeing, to secure 
immunity from that horrible disorder to which the servant of his pleasure 
is exposed ? 

NAVICULAR DISEASE. 

This is the scourge of willing horse-flesh ; it is the disease from which 
favorite steeds mostly suffer ; it is not less fatal in its termination than 
vexatious in its course and painful during its existence. 

The malignancy of the disorder is expended upon the substances which 
in health are without feeling, but which occasion the most acute anguish 
when affected by disease — namely, bone, tendon, and synovial membrane. 
Strictly confined to these structures, and frequently limited to a space 
not half an inch in diameter, the suffering it occasions is such as often 
provokes the sacrifice of the life, and invariably renders the animal next 
to useless. 

It is confined to the interior of the foot, being, as its name implies, 
strictly located upon the navicular bone. The navicular bone is a small 
bone attached to the posterior portion of the os pedis, and resting upon 



3T8 



NAVICULAR DISEASE. 




A DIAGIIAM TO EXPLAIN THE SEAT 
OP NAVICULAR DISEASE. 

a. The perforans tendon running 

beneath the bone, and on 
which the bone reposes. 

b. The comparative size and rela- 

tive situation of the navicu- 
lar bone. 

c. The synovial sac which facili- 

tates the motion of the bone 
on the tendon ; upon the supe- 
rior surface of this sac navicu- 
lar disease is alone exhibited. 



the perforans tendon, which is inserted into the inferior surface of the 
coffin-bone. A synovial sac is placed between the navicular bone and 
superior surface of the tendon, on which the ossoeus structure reposes. 
Synovial sacs are only found in places where motion is great and almost 
incessant ; thus the existence of this formation apprises us that the bone 
and tendon, in a healthy state, are designed to move freely upon each 
other. They do this while unaffected by dis- 
ease ; the foot, indeed, cannot be flexed, ex- 
tended, retracted, or placed upon the ground 
without this busy little joint being put into 
motion. It is, perhaps, as essential a part — 
though of small size — as any of the larger 
structures which enter into the horse's body. 

Navicular disease, however, affects only the 
lower surface of the bone ; the upper surface 
shares another synovial sac, which lubricates 
the articulation of the coffin-bone with the 
lower bone of the pastern. This upper surface 
is never affected ; the navicular bone may di- 
minish or wither through disease, still the affec- 
tion remains confined to its original situation ; 
disease may lead to fracture of the bone or to rupture of the perforans 
tendon, still the superior portion of the navicular bone to the last 
exhibits a healthful condition. 

This most annoying and terrible disorder springs from two causes. 
The first was a very favorite crotchet of the late Professor Coleman, who 
was always theorizing to the injury of the animal it was his office to 
cure. The disease is now largely distributed through that gentleman's 
favorite maxim concerning the absolute necessity that there should be 
pressure upon the frog. Every smith thus instructed tried to bring the 
frog as near the ground as possible, and the consequence was the spread 
of navicular disease. It is true, the frog, in a state of nature, was de- 
signed to bear pressure ; but surely it is folly to talk about the natural 
condition of the horse when nothing like a wild horse exists. Here was 
Coleman's error; he legislated for the most artificial of living creatures, 
which consumes only prepared food, and which moves only over labori- 
ously manufactured roads, as if it had been in an undomesticated con- 
dition, gamboling upon the untilled earth. 

The second cause is, the parsimony of most horse proprietors. Would 
these gentlemen have their favorites shod with leather, the smith would 
be obliged to slightly raise the frog; while the leather — if good, stout, 
sole leather — and the stopping would protect the seat of navicular dis- 



NAVICULAR DISEASE. 379 

ease from injury. With regard to the first cause, it was recognized by 
the late W. Percival, one of Coleman's most enthusiastic pupils; and, 
as concerns the last, its efficacy as a preventive needs no pleading nor 
any reference to establish its merits. 

The horse, when attacked, commonly has a good open foot — in fact- 
before disease commences, the foot is healthy. An animal in this con- 
dition is being ridden or slowly led out of the stable. In the last case 
it, being fresh, may rejoice to feel and sniff the cool air of heaven. It 
may prance about, and we may admire its attitudes ; but in an instant 
it becomes dead lame. So a horse may be mounted by a kind master; 
the creature may be going its own pace, when, of a sudden, the move- 
ment shall change, and the rider will be made conscious that his steed is 
lame. 

In either case the foot is examined. It is cool, quite cool ; no stone 
appears to have injured it — nor is any pebble sticking between the web 
of the shoe and the sole. Yet the lameness is acute and does not pass 
off. Now, to explain this, let the reader turn to the illustration which 
was last presented. 

The portion of the foot, immediately under the navicular bone, has 
been placed upon a stone ; the stone has been forced against the foot by 
the immense weight of the horse imposed upon it. The stone, under 
this impulse, has bruised the navicular bone. But the fleshy frog and the 
perforans tendon would have to be passed before this effect could reach 
the bone. Are neither of these also hurt? Doubtless they are. But 
the fleshy frog is a highly organized, secretive organ, and probably, by 
its innate energy, soon recovers from the effect. The tendon is, on the 
contrary, too soft and yielding to retain any harsh impression. The 
bone is firm and solid ; and thus that which failed to act upon either of 
the intervening parts, leaves a lasting injury upon the osseous structure, 
which, moreover, is held stationary by the coronary bone, and which is 
disposed to display injury, being covered by synovial membrane. 

The navicular bone belongs to a peculiar class called "sesimoid, or 
floating bones." These are more highly organized than the generality 
of osseous structures — in short, quite as much, or rather more, than the 
human tooth. Everybody must be acquainted with the anguish occa- 
sioned by unexpectedly biting upon a hard substance. The tooth, how- 
ever, is coated with crystalline enamel. The bone is covered by delicate 
synovial membrane. The impression is, therefore, more likely to be 
lasting with the last than the first. 

After the expiration of a week, however, the lameness disappears, and 
the proprietor fondly hopes all is over. The animal may work soundly 
for months — sometimes it never fails again. G-enerally, however, after 



180 



NAVICULAR DISEASE. 



some period, extending from six to nine months, the lameness reappears. 
This time the treatment occupies a longer space ; and the subsequent 
soundness is of shorter duration. Thus the malady progresses; the 
period occupied in curative measures lengthens, while the season of use- 
fulness diminishes ; till, in the end, the horse becomes lame for life. 

The worst of it is, that the pain in the lame foot occasions greater 
stress to be thrown upon the sound member ; the result generally is that 
both legs ultimately become affected with the like disease : such is ordi- 
narily the case. The horse with a tender foot will always bring it 
gently to the earth ; but this circumstance obliges the animal to cast the 
other foot to the ground with heedless impetuosity. The consequence 
is, the sound foot is sooner or later forced upon some stone or other 
inequality; from the law of sympathy, the disease subsequently makes 
rapid strides; for at death both feet are usually found in a similar 
condition. 

The effect of these repeated attacks is soon shown. The anguish has 
been likened to toothache, only it must assuredly be a toothache twenty 




A HORSE, ■WITH NAVICUIiAS DISEASE, POINTING IN THE STABLE. 



times magnified. All people know "there never yet was philosopher 
who could withstand the toothache;" but think of the poor horse with 
twenty toothaches compressed into one agony 1 The man can seek a 
thousand changes to divert his suffering ; the simple horse cannot even 
drink intoxicating fluids, and has hitherto not learned to smoke. The 
suffering, therefore, continues. And as man strives to spare a decayed 
tooth by masticating on the other side of the mouth, the horse endeavors 
to ease an aching foot by leaning all its weight upon a sound limb. 
Thus it learns to point in the stable or to advance one leg beyond the 
center of gravity, leaving the healthy member to support the entire 
weight of the body. 



NAVICULAR DISEASE. 



381 




A foot thrown out of use decrea'ses in size. Nature has giren certain 
parts for certain purposes; and if these purposes are avoided, those 
parts diminish in bulk. Wear the arm in a sling 
for any extended period, and the arm will sensibly 
grow smaller, or become withered. So the horse's 
foot, spared in progression and pointed in the 
stable, obviously changes its shape. The quarters 
draw inward ; the heels narrow ; the frog hardens 
and decreases ; the sole thickens and heightens ; 
the crust becomes marked by rims and grows con- 
siderably higher. In fact, the foot, from being 
an open, healthy foot, becomes a strong, contracted, or diseased member. 

The effect of the disease is speedily shown by the animal progress- 
ing entirely upon the toe, whereby the front of the shoe becomes much 
worn, as shown in the following engraving. Indeed, it is not unusual to 
see shoes taken from horses having navicular disease with their front 
edges worn positively to a cutting sharpness. When the animal is in 



THE UPRianT r.VSTERX ANB 
HARD, UNYIELDING HOOF, 
INDICATIVE OP CONFIRMED 
NAVICULAR DISEASE. 




THE TROT, PECULIAR TO NAVICULAR DISEASE, GENERALLY TERMED GROGGINESS. 

this stage, the mode of progression is usually what is termed groggy — 
that is, the hind feet, which are never affected, step out as boldly as 
ever; but the fore feet are limited in their action. They cannot be 
advanced far, because extension causes the perforans tendon to press 
upon the navicular bone ; the leg cannot be bent, because flexion moves 
the perforans tendon upon the navicular bone. The animal, thus doubly 
disabled, endeavors to make up by quickened movement for that which 
it lacks in perfect action. It dare not bring the heel to the ground or 
take long steps. It therefore progresses upon the toes, and indulges in 
very short but quick movements of the fore feet; and a horse thus 
affected may be challenged, though unseen, by the "patter, patter! clat- 
ter, clatter P^ which it makes. 



3J?2 NAVICULAR DISEASE. 

Navicular disease appears to the author to have been entirely mistaken 
as regards its treatment. It is administered to as though it consisted in 
violent and acute inflammation, whereas it is caused by a diflferent pro- 
cess — namely, ulceration. Inflammation excites the whole system, and 
occurs in strong bodies : ulceration is a diseased condition peculiar to 
the aged and to the weakly. Navicular disease is, so far as the writer's 
knowledge extends, unknown in the unbroken animal. It mostly affects 
the adult or the aged. It is not inflammatory ; for the foot, in the first 
instance, exhibits no heat, and, in the after-stages, never becomes more 
than warm. Often the warmth is so very slight that practitioners have 
to adopt a kind of stratagem to determine which is the more hot of the 
fore feet. A pail of water is brought forward, and sufficient to thor- 
oughly wet both hoofs is thrown over the feet. The parts are then 
watched ; and that which becomes dry the sooner is reasonably consid- 
ered the warmer hoof of the two. 

Moreover, the consequences of this disease are absorption, which it 
takes years to effect — not deposition, which is accomplished in a few 
days. The bone lessens in size, sometimes grows thin, till ultimately it 
may fracture ; the tendon loses in substance, and its fibers separate, till 
at length they may rupture. All internal structures which enter into 
the composition of the foot grow less and less, till the hoof becomes 
obviously small or contracted ; for it is a law of nature that, in the living 
creature, the contents should govern the covering : thus the brain con- 
trols the skull, the lungs regulate the chest, etc. etc. The horn alone 
increases ; but it is a curious fact that Nature always endeavors to pro- 
tect the part she allows to suffer from disease : thus in rickets, with 
children, the bones of the legs frequently curve ; 
but Nature, true to her principles, strives, by 
extra deposition, to strengthen the parts which . 
threaten to break through weakness. 

All tokens declare the navicular disease to 
be a chronic affection, attended by symptoms 
of bodily weakness. The accompanying exam- 
ple of the disorder, taken from the body of a 
horse which was killed for incurable lameness, 

A MORBID PREPARATION, KINDLY .,, .,, j. x ^ n„ 4.1,' /•„„J. 

LENT TO THE AUTHOR BY T. w. Will illustratc fully this tact. 

GowiNQ, ESQ. j^ ^j^jg specimen, the navicular bone occupies 

The diseased surface of the na- . . 

vicuiar bone exposed, and the its natural Situation Dctween tnc wings or tne 

affected tendon turned back up- mi a. j.- ^i-Uii- vu 

on the lower part of the OS pedis. OS pcdlS. That pOrtlOU Ot the tCUdon WhlCh 

once shared and concealed the disease is turned 
back upon the sole of the cofl&n-bone. What does the inspection dis- 
close ? Three small holes within the bone, and a few stains of biood, 




NAVICULAR DISEASE. 383 

which denote irritation upon the tendon. For, as the disease progresses, 
synovia ceases to be secreted, the navicular joint becomes dry, and is 
subject to the most torturing irritation every time the leg is moved. 

That the one presented may not by the reader be supposed an extreme 
case, produced to support the writer's opinions, another specimen of the 
disease is given ; but, on this last occasion, both sides of the navicular 
bone shall be exhibited. The upper surface appears perfectly healthy ; 
the lower surface only displays a large clot of blood, and a small but 
comparatively a deep hole. 





THE SUPERIOR SURFACE OF THE NAVICULAR BONE. THE INFERIOR SURFACE OF THE SAME BONE. 

Supposing the reader to be convinced of the justness of the writer's 
views, the treatment which these recommend shall be stated. Ulceration 
in any form proves the body to be weak or exhausted. Feed liberally, 
chiefly upon crushed oats and old beans. Attend to any little matter in 
which the horse's body may be wrong ; but do little to the foot beyond, 
every other night, soaking it one hour in hot water, for the first fortnight. 
Afterward apply flannel bandages to the leg, put tips upon the hoofs, 
and wrap the feet up in a sponge boot, having first smeared the horn 
with glycerin. This, with a very long rest, is all it is in our power to 
accomplish. The rest, however, should be proportioned only to the pro- 
prietor's pocket or to his powers of endurance. In the first instance, 
six months' rest in a well-aired stable, and three subsequent months at 
slow agricultural employment, will not be thrown away, but will be likely 
to prevent future annoyances. After one relapse, the treatment is all 
but hopeless. The horse may be again restored to soundness ; but the 
disease, which has with time gained strength, will be all but certain to 
reappear. 

This, probably, may be the fittest place for stating the writer's reason 
for objecting to the treatment generally adopted. 

Bleeding from the toe is decidedly objected to, because there never 
are any signs of inflammation present, but rather those symptoms which 
favor the belief that too little blood circulates within the foot. Blister- 
ing the coronet is more likely to augment the crusts than to reach the 
disease ; and the tendency of navicular derangement is to thicken the 
horn. The same reasoning applies to paring out the foot and placing 
the hoof in poultices ; it is more likely to act upon, and lead to activity 
in, the secreting membrane, which is near the surface, than to operate 



334 NAVICULAR DISEASE. 

beneficially upon a remote joint. Objection is taken to tbe feet standing 
in clay, because the cold produced by evaporation is disposed to drive 
blood from the parts, which already have too little. 

In extreme cases, neurotomy, or division of the nerve, is the only 
resort. For a detailed account of that operation the reader is referred 
to the next chapter. It permits the horse to be of some service to the 
mastei*, and allows the animal an escape from the agonies of a cruel dis- 
ease ; it is, however, not final. It conceals the lameness ; it rarely cures 
the disorder. The internal ravages may still go on ; and, though the 
nerve of the leg has been properly divided, yet at an uncertain period 
nerves generally reunite, and the part which was deprived of sensation 
may become once more sensitive to pain. Moreover, no eye can look 
upon the internal ravage. Sensation destroyed in a foot tempts the 
borse to throw even more than its proportion of weight on a part weak- 
ened by disease. The bone bas fractured, or the tendon has ruptured, 
under too sudden a test of their integrity. 

For the above reasons, neurotomy is always most successful when 
early performed. In the primary state of the disoi'der, a restoration 
of the foot to its healthy functions has seemed to banish the aS'ection. 
Pressure being given to the neurotomized organ, health has occasion- 
ally returned ; and when the time has arrived for the reunion of the 
nerve, that event has been signalized by no reappearance of lameness. 

But when the disorder has continued so long as to weaken the struc- 
tures of the foot, operation is always attended with hazard. The nerve 
may be properly divided ; the operation shall he admirably performed ; 
still the parts, weakened by the joint actions of active disease and of 
long rest, have become disorganized. Pressure being suddenly restored, 
the debilitated structures could not sustain the restoration of that burden 
they were originally formed to endure. Rupture or fracture was the 
result ; and the veterinary surgeon, despite his admirable talent, is dis- 
graced by being obliged to order the immediate destruction of that 
animal which it was intended he should have benefited. 

For the above reasons, and because the sound member is always dis- 
posed to exhibit the disorder which incapacitates one foot, never delay 
adopting the only chance of certain relief. If from pecuniary motives, 
or from better but mistaken feelings, the proprietor hesitates to subject 
his dumb companion to the surgeon's knife, never afterward should he 
repent of such a resolve. With delay the opportunity of benefit has 
passed ; the operation, to be successful, should be resorted to upon the 
second appearance of acute and decided lameness. 



CHAPTER XIY. 

INJURIES — THEIR NATURE AND THEIR TREATRIENT. 



POLL EVIL. 

Poll evil consists of a deep abscess, ending in an ulcerous sore which 
has numerous sinuses. The situation of the affection is the most for- 
ward portion of the neck, near the top of the head, which part is pecu- 
liarly liable to injury, especially in agricultural horses. 

The gentlemen who superintend the laying down of stable floors always 
make the pavements of the stalls to slant from the manger to the gang- 




THE POSITION OP THE HEAD BEFORE AN ENLARGEMENT ANNOUNCES THE EXISTENCE OE AN ABSCESS ON 

THE POLL. 

way. They either know nothing about the habits of the horse, or they 
disdain to think about so trivial a matter as the convenience of an ani- 
mal. Their stables are built for men ; and it is sufficient if the places 
will hold whatsoever man chooses to put into such out-buildings. 

The horse is most at ease when the position takes the strain off the 
flexor tendons. That end is accomplished when the hind legs are the 
higher portion of the body, or when the ground slants in precisely the 
opposite direction to which the flooring of all present stables incline. 
The animal, finding the slope which is most convenient for the builder's 
purposes adverse to its comfort, endeavors to compound the matter by 

25 (385) 



386 POLL WYtt. 

hanging back upon the halter, thus getting the hind feet into the open 
drain which always divides the stalls from the gangway. 

The rope should be stout which has to sustain the huge weight of the 
horse ; in proportion to that weight, of course, must be the pressure 
upon the seat of poll evil. Pressure, as a natural consequence, stops 
circulation. Upon circulation beii)g freely performed, health, secretion, 
and even life itself is dependent. The flow of blood to any part of the 
body cannot be long prevented without unpleasant sensations being en- 
gendered. Numbness and itching are the first results. The horse tries 
to master these by rubbing its head violently against the trevise or divi- 
sion of the stall.' Friction, when applied to an irritable place, is never 
a soothing process ; when instituted by the huge strength of a horse, its 
probable ill effects may be easily surmised. It is, therefore, no legiti- 
mate cause for wonder if some of the fleshy substances, compressed 
between the external wood and the internal bones of the neck, become 
bruised, and deep-seated abscess is thus provoked. 

This, however, is not the sole cause ; there are others equally potent 
and generally springing from the same source — namely, from human folly. 
How much of animal agony might be spared if man, in the pride of 
superiority, would deign to waste an occasional thought upon the poor 
creatures which are born and live in this country only by his permission 
and to labor in ? his service I Stable doors are commonly made as 
though none buthuman beings had to pass through them. The tallest 
of mankind, probably, might enter a stable without stooping ; but does 
it therefore follow that a horse can pass under the beam without assum- 
ing a crouching position? Many horses learn to fear the doorway. 
They shy, rear, or praflce, whenever led toward it. Man, however, 
refuses to be instructed by the action of his mute servant; those symp- 
toms of fear, which are the bitter fruits of experience, are attributed to 
the patient and enduring quadruped as exhibitions of the rankest vice. 

Low doors, such as" usually belong to stables, are among the most 
frequent causes of poll evil. The horse, when passing through them, 
is either surprised by something it beholds outside the building, or 
checked by the voice of the groom. The sudden elevation of the head 
is, in the Snimal, expressive of every unexpected emotion. Up goes the 
crest and crash comes the poll against the beam of the doorway. A 
violent bruise is thereby provoked, and a deep-seated abscess is the sad 
result. • 

The horse likewise suS'ers from the representatives in brutality of him 
for whose benefit it wears out its existence. Carters display their 
ignorance by getting into violent passions with their teams. " Whooay" 
and "kum hu^" are shouted out; the huge whip is slashed and snaffle 



POLL EVIL. 387 

jagged, till mute intelligence is fairly puzzled. "Were mortals in the like 
position, subject to the same terrible chastisement, and, at the same 
time, forbid to inquire the wishes of their commander, they would be 
in no better condition. The panting, sweating, and starting of the poor, 
confused quadrupeds announce their terror. The driver, too enraged 
to understand himself, and too impatient to delay punishment upon the 
objects of his wrath, resorts to the butt-end of his heavy whip. Some 
wretched animal is struck upon the poll, for the head is always aimed at 
when stupidity quarrels with its own ignorance, and a dreadful disorder 
is established. 

All the causes of poll evil may, however, be reduced to one — namely, 
to external injury. The first result of such a cause is pain whenever 
the head is moved. Motion enforces the contraction of the bruised 
muscles; and the agony growing more and more acute, the sufferer 
acquires a habit of protruding the nose in a very characteristic manner 
long before the slightest symptom of the malady can be perceived. 
When forced to bend the head toward the manger, it generally hangs 
back to the length of the halter ; for although so doing occasions pain, 
the position renders the necessary angle of the head upon the neck as 
little acute as possible. The anguish attendant upon the earlier stages 
of the disease is exemplified by the length of time occupied in emptying 
the manger. At this stage nothing is apparent; at this period also 
great cruelty is too often exercised when the collar is forced over the 
head regardless of the struggles of the acutely-diseased animal. 

Should the seat of poll evil at this stage of the disease be par- 
ticularly examined, the most lengthened inspection, when prompted by 
expectation, may fail to detect even an indication of probable enlarge- 
ment. Pressure, or enforced motion of the head, excites resistance. A 
few weeks in some cases, and the swelling becomes marked or prominent. 
In others, the enlargement is never well developed: instances of this 
last kind invariably are the most difiicult to treat, for in them the seat 
of the disorder is always most deeply seated. The size of the tumor is 
therefore always to be hailed as a promise that the injury is tolerably 
near the surface, and, consequently, more under the influence of remedial 
measures. 

After pressure has been made, the agony occasioned causes the animal 
to be difficult of approach. The common method of examination is, 
\iowever, very wrong. No good is done by inflicting torture. Some- 
thing, on the contrary, is concealed. Place the fingers lightly on the 
part, and allow them to remain there till the fear, excited by a touch 
upon a tender place, has subsided. Then, and not till then, gradually 
introduce pressure. The more superficial the injury, the more speedy 



388' POLL EVIL. 

will be the response. The longer the time and greater the force requi- 
site to induce signs of uneasiness, the deeper, as a general rule, will be 
the center of the disease. 

In either case there is little good accomplished by those applications 
which are recognized as mild measures. Fomentations and poultices 
commonly waste valuable time, and, at last, prove of no avail. There- 
fore, blister over the place. Obviously, the employment of more active 
treatment is at present forbidden. Do not, however, give the carter so 
much liquid blister, to be rubbed in by his heavy and coarse hand ; but 
lightly paint over the seat of the supposed hurt with spirituous or 
acetous tincture of cantharides. Do this daily till copious irritation is 
produced, and, before that dies away, repeat the dressing. Keep up 
the soreness, but do no more. Never apply the tincture upon active 
vesication, otherwise a foul sore, ending in a lasting blemish, may be the 
result. Make the poll merely painful. An additional motive will thereby 
be instituted to keep the head perfectly quiet, for constant motion pro- 
vokes the worst consequences of poll evil, causing the confined pus to 
burrow, or to form sinuses. 

The foregoing treatment has been proposed because the tincture, 
when applied by means of a brush, penetrates the hair more quickly, 
acts quite as energetically, and is less likely to run down upon other 
parts than the oil of cantharides, which the heat of the body always 
renders more liquid. It is advised to be used, because it establishes an 
external inflammation. Inflammations in living bodies, like fires prey- 
ing upon inanimate substances, have 
an attraction for each other. All 
injuries which lead to suppuration 
likewise have a tendency to move 
toward the surface ; and these two 
laws, acting together, very probably 
may tend to the speedier develop- 
ment of poll evil, thereby shorten- 
ing the sufferings of the animal. 
Should they not have that effect, 
POLL EVIL i.uraNo THE FinsT BXAGK. ^hc vcsicatory is beneficial. About 

the head of the horse are numerous 
layers of thin tendon, which are termed fascia. Through this substance 
matter absorbs its way with difficulty. It is, therefore, almost impris- 
oned, and motion always disposes the pus to seek new outlets. Thus 
pipes or sinuses are formed; these constitute one of the worst symp- 
toms attendant upon poll evil. 

As soon as the swelling appears, watch it attentively. "Wait till 




POLL EVIL. 389 

some particular spot points, or till it feels softer, if it be not more 
prominent than the surrounding substance. Then have the animal cast. 
Being down, take a keen knife and open the spot before indicated. That 
being accomplished, pause while the secretion flows forth. Afterward 
insert into the cut a small, flexible probe. When its progress is impeded, 
employ the knife with a director. Continue doing this till the seat or 
center of the disease has been gained. 

Remember, however, you are not hacking at the family loaf; it is 
living and sensitive flesh you are wounding. Therefore, be very careful 
your knife is thoroughly sharpened, and is of sufficient size ; mind, also, 
that all the cuts run smoothly into one another, so as to leave clean sur- 
faces for the healing process to unite. Having reached the heart of the 
disorder, proceed to empty out all the concrete matter. That done, wash 
out the part with a syringe and the coldest»spring water. Afterward 
examine the cavity. Excise any loose pieces of tendon or of ligament, 
and cut until a healthy aspect is everywhere presented. Then rub the 
sides of the deep-seated wound with lunar caustic. Let the horse rise, 
giving orders that the sore is to be thoroughly moistened thrice daily 
with the solution of the chloride of zinc, one grain to the ounce of water, 
and, placing a rag dipped in a solution of tar over the wound to keep 
off the flies, return the horse to the stable. 

If the disease be left to run its course, the swelling generally increases, 
while numerous openings at last disfigure the enlargement. From such 
drain a glairy discharge. This adheres to the surrounding parts, and, 
joined to the miserable expression of the countenance, gives to the horse 
a peculiarly unpleasant appearance. The flesh wastes under the per- 
petual anguish, and the half-conscious aspect of the creature justifies a 
suspicion that the brain is affected. 

In that case, proceed as before directed concerning casting the horse 
and the knife with which you operate. Have the blade rather too large 
than too small. Most veterinary instruments are mere adaptations of 
those employed by the human sui'geon. The author never remembers 
to have seen anything approaching to the magnitude of a proper horses 
operating knife in the hands of his fellows. A small blade compels 
numerous small cuts. The part is rather snipped asunder than divided 
by one clean incision. The recovery is thereby materially delayed ; and 
the lengthened operation greatly deteriorates from its chances of success, 
not to dwell upon the increased suffering occasioned to the quadruped. 

The horse being down, do not attempt any display of your proficiency. 
Look well and long at the part intended to be operated upon. Decide 
in your own mind the course in which the knife is to move. That course 
should be influenced by the direction in which you may probably sepa- 



390 



POLL EVIL. 




POLL EVIL IN ITS SECOND STAGE, OR ^THEN EEADT TOR 
• OPERATION. 



rate the greater number of sinuses. In the engraving inserted below there 
are four holes, each indicating the presence of a "sinus. The supposed 
direction of the knife is laid down by dotted lines. The primary and 
lower incision includes three of the pipes. That made, another connects 
the other sinus with the longer incision ; the after-labor necessitates the 
cleaning of the central sac, removing all the hanging pieces, also probing 

the sinuses, and making sure 
all are fairly opened. If any 
are found unopened, a director 
should be inserted, and the 
channel should be connected 
with the chief wound by means 
of a smaller knife. 

Two cautions are necessary 
to be given with regard to the 
treatment of poll evil : Never 
permit the knife to be applied 
upon the root of the mane. Underneath the hair which decorates the 
neck of the horse lies an important ligament, by means of which the 
head is chiefly supported. All thfe evils which might be anticipated 
may not spring from the division of that development ; but it is well to 
spare it, although the prostrate animal should have to be turned over, 
and the operation have to be continued on the other side. Also, when 
working the creature subsequent to its recovery, never use a collar. 
Wounds, although perfectly healed, are apt to remain morbidly sensitive ; 
serious accidents, over which the reader would deeply grieve, may occur 
from the harness touching the part which once was diseased. A breast 
strap is, therefore, to be much preferred. 

There are several popular methods of treating this disease. All, 
however, are cruel ; one is barbarous ; when properly conducted, none 
are efficient under the direction of a person possessing the smallest feel- 
ing. The injection of potent caustics in solution, or violent compression 
upon an exquisitely tender swelling even until the force employed amounts 
to that power which can bring the sides of a distant internal cavity to- 
gether, drive out the corruption, and hold the part in that position while 
healing is established, have been largely advocated. Whoever could 
increase the suffering of a mute and patient life to that degree which the 
last method necessitates would merit a much severer punishment than 
the writer can afford space to detail. Of these modes of cure the author 
can profess no experience. He has, however, seen injections used ; in 
no instance have they been successful. The time which they occupied 
was enormous, and the expense with which they were attended by no 



FISTULOUS WITHERS. 391 

means small. The man who hopes to eradicate this disease should ueveir 
have recourse to them. 

Another process, formerly very popular, consisted in slicing/ the living 
flesh in a very coarse and vulgar manner ; that, however, was merely 
preparatory. The chief dependence was placed in boiling liquor, which 
was inhumanly poured into the wound^ After such a method were all 
sinuous sores treated by an ignorant and uneducated quack, who espe- 
cially delighted in eradicating such forms of disease. The writer has 
heard terrible descriptions given of the agony produced, and equally 
revolting has been the picture of the filth employed by this unqualified 
horse doctor. While, however, the course which has been mentioned is 
reprobated, our heaviest condemnation should alight upon those persons 
who could so violate the sacredness of their trusts as to surrender any 
creature to the torments of so horrible a remedy. 

In poll evil, the only certainty reposes on the knife. When properly 
employed, the operation is brief; the temporary agony bears no propor- 
tion to the years of subsequent relief thereby secured. To be properly 
employed, however, it should be used as though the person invested with 
it was, for the time, divested of all feeling. He who accepts it must 
think only upon what he is about to perform, and must summon resolu- 
tion to do it quickly. In surgery, hesitation is positive cruelty ; the 
knife, to be curative, should be gracefully moved through the living flesh. 
All notching and hacking are tortures, and worse than folly ; the blade 
should sweep through the substance ; and, to prevent the struggles of 
the quadruped from interfering with the intentions of the surgeon, all 
that will be necessary is for some person to sit upon the cheek of the 
prostrated animal. 

FISTULOUS WITHERS. 

This disease, in its chief characteristics, closely resembles poll evil. 
It, however, diff"ers from that disorder in one fortunate particular ; poll 
evil must come to maturity before its cure can be attempted with any ' 
hope of success. Injury to the withers is easiest eradicated when 
attacked upon its earliest appearance; both, however, in their worst 
periods, proceed from pus being confined, from it decomposing and its 
^establishing numerous sinuses. When disease has reached this stage, 
the only certain cure is the free but skillful use of the knife. 

Fistulous withers, in the first instance, is an injury to one of the 
superficial bursae which nature has provided to facilitate the movement 
of the vertebral, points spinal under the skin. The hurt is occasioned 
by badly-made saddles, but mor^ especially by the ladies' saddles. 
Some fair equestrians delight to feel their bodies lifted into the air, and 



392 . FISTULOUS WITHERS. 

enjoy the trivial shock of the descent; such movements, however, neces- 
sitate the weight should be leaned upon the crutch and stirrup. This kind 
of ex'ercise is never indulged in by good female riders, as no saddle, 
however well constructed, can resist the constant strain to one side. 
Friction is produced; a bursa is irritated, and the animal will, under 
the best treatment, be rendered useless for a fortnight. Rolling in the 
stalls is also reported to have occasioned this affection ; so likewise is 
the heavy hammer of the shoeing smith, intemperately employed to 
chastise the transient movement of an observant horse. 

When first produced, the remedy is certain and easy. A swelling 
about the size of an egg appears near the withers, upon the off side of 
the body. Go up to the horse upon that side ; have with you a keen- 
edged and sharply-pointed knife of pocket dimensions. . ^ Stand close to 
the animal ; then impale the tumor, and, having the back of the blade 
toward the quadruped, cut quickly upward and outward. Mind, and 
stand very close to the center of the body, as the pain of this trivial 

operation is apt to make the creature 
lash out and prance. At the spot in- 
dicated a person is perfectly safe; 
neither hoof nor leg will touch that 
particular place, or even come near 
it. Rest One hand on the back, and 
by your voice reassure the startled 
creature. 

The swelling being divided, ex- 
change the knife for a lunar caustic 
case; smear over the interior well 
with the cautery, and all the business 
THE BLIGHT ENLARGEMENT TVHicH, BADLY IS ovcr. ^cvcr, howcver, attempt to 
TTii^vZs^'liZlir ""' "'^ '""• pass by the heels of a steed which has 

been pained. The animal may sus-' 
pect your motives, and the hind feet of the horse are the most powerful 
weapons of offense and of defense. Have the creature backed from the 
stall ere you attempt to quit it. Subsequently keep the wound moist 
with the lotion composed of chloride of zinc — one grain to the ounce 
of water; also have the part covered with a rag, moistened with solu- 
tion of tar. In nine or ten days the incision will have healed, and after 
the lapse of a fortnight the animal may return to its ordinary employ- 
ment. 

Should this remedy be neglected, pus is soon formed within the en- 
largement, and the formation is accompanied by swelling, heat, and 
pain. The horse is useless, and continues thus till the affection is 





FISTULOUS WITHERS. 393 

eradicated. The animal cannot wear a collar; it cannot endure a sad- 
dle ; at length numerous holes are formed upon the enlargement. These 
are the mouths of so many sinuses, and from each exudes a foul dis- 
charge. The poor quadruped evidently suffers greatly; it will almost 
stand still and starve rather than brave agony by violent motion. 

The only remedy is by operation ; make an incision so as to embrace 
the greatest number of holes. Then cut from the other openings into 
the main channel ; this done, 
have the sides of the wound 
held back, while the center 
of corruption is cleaned out. 
Such is a very filthy and un- 
pleasant office; if the bones 
are affected, all the diseased 
parts must be removed. 
When slight, the tainted por- 
tions may be scraped away ; 
when of lonsr standing:, the 

o O' A HORSE yniB FISTULOUS WITHERS IN THE 'WORST STAGE. 

spines of the vertebrae have 

been sundered with the saw and thus taken from the body. At any 
risk, none but healthy bone must be suffered to remain ; all discolored 
or white portions of the bony structure must be extirpated, and none 
but that which is of a healthy pink color suffered to continue. If a 
particle of unhealthy, osseous growth is left behind, the wound may 
close, but it will break out again, and the disease become as bad as 
ever. 

The cleansing being accomplished, apply the cloth over the wound, 
and keep wet with the lotion formerly directed to be used. 

Sometimes the sinuses will take a dangerous direction, and, favored 
by the action of the shoulder, will burrow from the withers to the chest 
or elbow. Then the knife cannot be employed. Should a pipe incline 
to this course, but be of comparatively short extent, insert a little 
bichloride of mercury down the channel. This is best done by powder- 
ing some of the salt. Dip the elastic probe, which has recently been 
down the sinus, into the powder. Reinsert it, and continue to repeat 
this action till all the bichloride is expended. 

If the sinus should have run its entire course, but not have found an 
exit below, then employ a long guarded seton needle, such as can be 
purchased at all veterinary instrument makers. Insert this in its 
guarded state, and, having pushed it as far as it will -go, give, upon 
the end of the handle, a moderately sharp blow ; this will force out the 
cutting edge and drive the point through the flesh. Pass a long tape, 



394 FISTULOUS PAROTID DUCT. 

with a knot at the further end of it, through the opening near the point, 
and withdraw the instrument, leaving the tape in after another knot has 
been tied at the other extremity. 

Thug a seton is established, and a depending orifice is instituted. 
The tape will act as a drain to the morbid secretion, while the irritation 
produced by it will also remove the callous lining of the pipe. A 
healthy action will thereby be established ; and so soon as the inferior 
wound discharges a full stream of thick, creamy pus, the seton may be 
cut out, with a conviction that its office is fulfilled. 



A CUAUDED SETON NLEPLK. 



THE SETON NEEDLE PROTRUDED, AND SECURED WITHIN THE HAXDLE BY MEANS OP A SCREW. 

The screw being loosened, the button is struck, and the sharp needle shoots forward, cutting its way 
through any interposing obstacle. 

However, never turn animals afflicted with fistulous withers or with 
poll evil out to grass. In the last disease, the motion of the head, the 
outstretching of the neck, and movement of the jaws occasion agony; 
and in the first instance, the necessity for perpetual action entails so 
much misery as soon renders the life worthless. The horse which is 
not worth the best of food in the best of stables, should not be doomed 
to a life of starvation and of torture. It is the shame of society that 
rich men are tempted by a few pounds to dispose of the creature which 
has been maimed in their service. Wounds endurpd when obeying the 
wishes of the master should endear the slave unto his lord. In the case 
of the willing steed, the law is reversed. The owner blemishes ; and 
instead of nursing the wounded life, he disposes of it. The injured 
animal is sold to the first purchaser for so much as the damaged article 
will fetch. 

FISTULOUS PAROTID -DUCT. 

This is a most serious evil, rather than a quickly-killing disease. The 
animal which is thus afflicted may endure for years ; but each meal con- 
sumed and each day survived rates as a period of misery. When it is 
considered how much the happiness of the lower order of beings de- 
pends on merely feeding and living, it will be at once apparent how 
much the horse has lost when all enjoyment has departed from eating; 
when mere existence is embittered by being a prolongation of the suf- 
fering. The digestion becomes deranged, because the saliva, or a 



FISTULOUS PAROTID DUCT. 395 

valuable secretion imperative to the proper performance of the function, 
is absent; while every movement is a pain occasioned by the agony of a 
diseased stomach and the anguish attendant upon a fistulous sore. The 
wretched creature, in this condition, speedily becomes an object of dis- 
gust to the most humane master ; and, according to the convenient 
morality of modern times, is therefore sold to the highest bidder. Pur- 
chased only for the work which remains in the carcass, a fearful doom 
lies before the sick and debilitated quadruped. It rapidly sinks lower 
and lower, at each stage of its descent the food growing more scanty 
as the labor becomes more exhausting. 

The parotid duct is the tube by which the saliva secreted by the 
gland is, during the act of mastication, conveyed into the mouth and 
mingled with the food. The parotid gland lies at the spot where the 
neck joins the jaw ; within the interior of that body numerous fine 
hollow vessels connect and unite. These at each junction become larger 
and fewer in number, till at length they all terminate in one channel, 
which is the duct immediately about to be considered. It leaves the 
gland and travels for some space upon the inner side of the jaw ; after 
which it curls under the inferior border of the bone and runs in front of 
the large masseter muscle of the horse's cheek. 

Its injury is frequently occasioned by hay-seeds or particles of food, 
during the process of comminution, entering the open mouth of the 
duct; these, subsequently becoming swollen, prevent the free egress of 
the saliva. The secretion, nevertheless, goes forward and accumulates 
within the tube, which it greatly distends. A confined secretion pro- 
duces the most exquisite agony. The 
motion of the jaw stimulates the gland to 
pour forth its fluid; thus every mouthful 
which the animal is forced to eat not only 
is the cause of suffering, but likewise occa- 
sions additional pressure to a channel 
already enlarged to bursting, and which 
at length bursts. ' 

Another provocative is calculus, or 
stone, which is sometimes taken from the 
cheeks of horses, they being of enormous me paeoud duct distended by a sah- 
comparative magnitude ; the natural tube 

would not admit a pea. Concretions have been removed from this nar- 
row passage as large as a pullet's egg. Such an obstacle not only 
impedes the flow of saliva, but produces additional anguish by the dis- 
tention it occasions, and by the hinderance so hard a substance offers to 
every motion of the animal jaw during the necessary period of mastication. 




396 FISTULOUS PAROTID DUCT. 

Every puncture made into the substance of the duct, and every rup- 
ture of the canal, speedily becomes fistulous sores. The saliva constantly 
pours through the opening thus instituted ; the healing process is thereby 
prevented, and the edges of the wound rapidly become callous. It is, 
however, painful to be obliged to state that the stable fork, in the hand 
of an intemperate groom, is the instrument by which these Dunctures are 
too frequently occasioned. 

Gentlemen when engaging people to attend upon their animals should 
always be very pai'ticular concerning temper. An irritable person, how- 
ever smart he may appear, is obviously disqualified for such an occupa- 
tion. A man of an evil temper should never be engaged. Still, the great 
majority of present grooms are rather conspicuous for an exuberance of 
conceit, than remarkable for any openness of countenance. Smartness 
may gratify the pride of the master ; but it is difficult to comprehend in 
what manner it possibly can benefit his horse. 

There is an old proverb which, being "the condensed wisdom of 
ages," teaches that "the master's eye fattens the steed." Most of 
modern masters dislike nothing so much as trouble. The stable is given 
over to the servant. No Eastern despot is so absolute as the groom in 
his dominions : he kicks and abuses its inhabitants at his pleasure. If 
the free exercise of his will occasions injury, a lie is easily invented and 
readily believed by the lazy superior. All that comes into or passes out 
of the building pays toll to the invested ruler. Five per cent, is levied 
upon the hay and corn merchant ; the dung is sold as a legitimate per- 
quisite ; the bills of the harness and the 
coach makers are taxed one shilling in the 
pound by the most ignorant groom, and 
often much higher by the properly initiated. 
Thus the idle man pays dearly for his ease. 
There is no luxury so expensive as a want 
of wholesome energy. 

The process of mastication causes the 
saliva to be secreted. At each motion of 
the jaw it is squirted forth with violence; 
every drop of the fluid passes through the 
false opening — no portion finds its way into 
the mouth. The running of the stream 

A HOESE, HATTNO A FISTULOUS PAROTID j il_ 1. 1 j.1 1, • 

DUCT, IN THE ACT OF EATING. dowu thc chcck wcars away tlie hair, 

while the absence of a valuable constitu- 
ent toward perfect digestion occasions the diet not to nourish the body. 
The animal loses flesh, and quickly assumes a miserable appearance, 
which makes the proprietor long to rid his sight of so pitiable an object. 




FISTULOUS PAROTID DUCT. 397 

The cure for this disease was aptly illustrated by Mr. Gowing, the 
excellent veterinary surgeon of Camden Town. That gentleman made 
an adhesive fluid, by either saturating the strongest spirit of wine with 
gum mastic, or dissolving India-rubber in sulphuric ether. Then, when 
the horse was not eating, he pared oflF the hardened edges of the wound 
till blood issued therefrom. He subsequently allowed the bleeding to 
stop, and placed over the orifice a piece of strained India-rubber. 
Over that he put a thin layer of cotton ; fastened one end of the cotton 
to the hair of the cheek by means of the adhesive preparation. That 
being dry, he tightened the cotton and glued down the opposite ex- 
tremity. Next he attached another layer of cotton, and subsequently 
another. Afterward he fastened more cotton, some of it crossways; 
and, having added as many layers as would make a good body, saturates 
the whole with the adhesive solution before alluded to. 

The hair affords a good ground to which any other substance can be 
fastened; but it is rendered better by being thoroughly washed with 
soft soap and warm water. The ablution deprives the skin of the horse 
of its naturally unctuous secretion, and permits the adhesive application 
a better chance. 

The horse should be allowed no food which necessitates mastication. 
The head should be fastened to the pillar-reins during the process of 
cure. Thin gruel only should be presented while treatment is progress- 
ing, and that should be continued until the covering falls off. Should 
the wound not be healed, allow a couple of days to elapse ; but give no 
solid food. Permit the horse to rest on refuse tan — not straw, which 
might be eaten — during all this time. Afterward renew the attempt, 
and repeat it again if necessary — ^though the first trial generally suc- 
ceeds. 

Before concluding, it may be well to arm the reader against those 
practices generally adopted by horse doctors. These practices consist 
in the use of the red-hot budding iron, which is among them a very 
popular application to a fistulous parotid duet. The theory which in- 
duces this resort is, a belief that the heated iron induces an eschar, and 
the wound closes before the crust falls off. Red-hot iron is, however, 
far more disponed to destroy substance than to favor growth ; and, 
probably, its curative properties could have gained faith among no other 
class. Possibly there exists no other body which would credit that, to 
burn a hole larger, was the best way to close it. Another artifice is to 
inject caustic lotions up the duct, and thereby occasion the gland to 
slough out. Against such cruelty the author is pleased to think little 
need be said. The operation, when successful, causes so much irritation 
as endangers the life; for the body of the gland is permeated by so 



398 PHLEBITIS. 

many and such important vessels as render the termination always very 
dubious. 



PHLEBITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OP THE VEIN. 

Formerly it was the custom to bleed horses for everything and for 
nothing. It was not even suspected that a creature which exists only to 
labor unto the limit of possibility is far more likely to be the victim of 
debility than of repletion. It never occurred to any master that his 
wretched animal wanted blood putting into it rather than abstracting 
the smallest quantity of blood from it. However, formerly bleeding 
was a favorite resort with the apothecary, and the old veterinary 
surgeon seems to have followed the bad example. Aged people have 
informed the writer that they remember the time when, on a Sunday 
morning, a long shed was filled with agricultural horses standing in a 
row. These victims were all waiting to be bled. The veterinary sur- 
geon's assistant used to take the fleam, and to open a vein in the first 
animal's neck. Then he would proceed to the second ; and thus, in 
turn, he would open the jugulars of the entire number. No account 
was taken of the quantity of blood lost ; that flowed forth till the last 
had been operated upon, when ell the creatures stood simultaneously 
draining forth their lives. 

The veterinary surgeon's assistant subsequently returned, and pinned 
up the orifice of the first horse : then he went and performed that office 
for the succeeding animal. Thus he, a second time, progressed down 
the row, pinning up as he proceeded ; and the poor horses often tottered 
before he came. All this was done for a human fancy: man thought 
the loss of blood, at spring and autumn, beneficial to all kinds of life. 
The writer has heard of old ladies who were very skillful in bleeding 
cats. Most cats, however, resist such an application of medical talent ; 
not so the horse : this animal submits itself patiently to the master's will. 
The creature seems to recognize that it has no right to exist except by 
the permission of its owner. There is no living being which acknowl- 
edges so abject a dependence. 

In return it is made a sport of the idlest whims. Hence horses, after 
bleeding, were all thought to be much benefited. They were expected 
to perform greater labor and to continue in sounder health. In vain did 
the disease visit the stable more frequently ; to no purpose was dimin- 
ished capability displayed. The ungrateful bodies of the " plaguy beasts" 
were blamed, which would go wrong even after mortal science had ex- 
pended its wealth upon them. Man never doubted his own wisdom ; he 
never questioned his own conduct ; and it is astonishing the quantity of 



PHLEBITIS. 399 

prejudice which is from year to year perpetuated for the want of a small 
amount of so cheap an article as mental inquiry. 

The worst of the evil still remains to be told. The creatures, being 
bled, were esteemed so greatly benefited as to require no subsequent 
attention. Phlebitis was consequently, in other days, a rather common 
aflfection. If neglected, the disease may terminate in death. In cases 
aggravated by mistaken measures, the disorder mounts to the brain, and 
occasions awful agonies. Taken early and properly administered to, this 
disposition is easily arrested. It was formerly wrongly treated, and was 
traced to an erroneous origin. Phlebitis was, to the perfect satisfaction 
of learned judges seated on the bench, attributed to the sui'geon's want 
of care. So serious an evil was imagined to be caused by culpable neg- 
lect during a trivial operation. It was thought to have been provoked 
by the use of a foul instrument, or by employing anything else to strike 
a fleam than a properly-made blood-stick. 

Experiments, however, which were instituted at the Royal Veterinary 
College, have proved that no want of care, during the performance of 
bleeding, can provoke the disorder. Wretched horses, in that establish- 
ment, have been punctured with dirty, rusty, blunt, and jagged fleams ; 
all manner of blood-sticks have been employed in every description of 
way. These have 'been struck violently and tapped in the gentlest 
fashion. Every possible sort of pinning up has- been adopted ; but the 
utmost endeavor of intentional perversion could not produce inflamma- 
tion of the vein. Tjjere appears to be only one ascertained cause : that 
is, bleed ; do not tie up the head, but turn it into a field, or present fod- 
der to be eaten off the ground, and the animal will have phlebitis. The 
pendulous position of the head and the motion of the jaws alone seem 
capable of starting inflammation in the jugular vein. Therefore, should 
the reader ever permit a horse to be bled — which, save in extreme cases, 
is perfectly unnecessary — let him remember to place the animal subse- 
quently in the stable, to tie the halter to the rack for twenty-four hours, 
and, during the same space, to abstain from allowing any food. These 
injunctions, however, do not refer to the bleedings sometimes adopted to 
counteract acute disease. 

There is one circumstance which should always be well considered 
before any horse is bled : Certain animals have a constitutional predis- 
position toward this peculiar form of disease. The horse whose vein 
shall inflame no man can, by sign, mark, or investigation, pick from a 
herd. It is, however, an ascertained fact that particular animals, of no 
fixed breed, and apparently characterized by no recognized state of body, 
have a mighty tendency to exhibit this particular disorder. The horse 
may appear unexceptionable as regards health ; but, nevertheless, strike 



400 PHLEBITIS. 

it with a fleam or puncture it with a lancet, and phlebitis will undoubt- 
edly be generated ; none of the usual precautions can always prevent 
the misfortune. Such predisposition evidently depends on a determinate 
condition of system which science has hitherto failed to recognize. 

This fact, or eccentricity in the constitutions of isolated horses, ought 
to be generally known. Men have recovered heavy damages in courts 
of law, and blameless veterinary surgeons have been ruined, by circum- 
stances over which the utmost stretch of human precaution could possi- 
bly exercise no control. However, a more extended knowledge concern- 
ing the real origin of this disorder may do some good, since it will guard 
juries from delivering wrongful verdicts, and may tend to check that 
love of venous depletion which is still too prevalent with ignorant horse 
owners. 

There was formerly a great diversity of opinion concerning a supposed 
eccentricity in the facts observed during this disease. If a horse was 
bled in the neck, and subsequently exhibited phlebitis, the brain became 
affected. If an animal was depleted from the fore leg, and displayed 
tBe disease, the heart became involved. In one case, the disorder pro- 
ceeded from the center of circulation ; and in the other, it mounted 
directly toward the organ. A great many hypotheses were published to 
explain or to account for this imaginary peculiarity. Much nonsense 
was spoken, and more was written, to point out the real cause of an 
imaginary difference. Yet, calmly viewed, the seeming diversity appears 
to agree with the commonest law of nature. Phlebitis always closes the 
vessel at the seat of injury. The disease, therefore, in each case, is pre- 
vented from descending, and consequently ascends above the orifice — 
the only peculiarity being the relative situations of the structures in- 
volved. 

This affection is most common after blood has been taken from the 
neck. That seeming preference for a particular part may, however, be 
nothing more than a circumstance dependent upon the greater number 
of animals which have their jugulars opened. Were the brachial or the 
saphena veins punctured as frequently as the vessel which carries the 
blood from the brain, the apparent difference might appear in the oppo- 
site direction. However, from whichever vessel the depletion is effected, 
always tie the quadruped's head up, and present no food. A stall is to 
be preferred to a loose box, as the confined space is more likely to pre- 
vent action. Motion is the source of all danger. This fact was aptly 
illustrated by an anecdote which used to be related by the late Mr. Lis- 
ton, the eminent surgeon. In his lecture, that gentleman surprised his 
class by stating that the last person whom he bled perished of phlebitis. 
Bleeding is the most simple operation in human surgery. Most surgeons 



PHLEBITIS. 



401 



leave this office to the apothecary ; consequently it was rather a conde- 
scension in one who deservedly ranked so high in his profession to stoop 
to such an act. What, therefore, could possibly cause disease to follow 
the operation, when performed by him who was accustomed to surgery 
upon its grandest scale ? 

The cause was soon explained. The person operated upon chanced 
to be a lunatic. This insane individual embraced the notion that the 
healing process was much favored by constant motion ; consequently he 
kept on flexing and extending his arm with all the violence which is 
natural to the demented. In vain was every effort made to persuade 
him from so mad an action. He clung with extraordinary pertinacity to 
his unwholesome theory. On the following day, Mr. Liston was sur- 
prised to find his patient in bed, but still moving the arm in which disease 
had already declared itself. Measures were taken to keep the limb quiet, 
but it was found impossible to accomplish this in a satisfactory manner ; 
and when Mr. Liston again called, the patient was no more ! 

A vein being about to inflame, the earliest intimation of the fact is 
given by the separation of the lips of the wound, while through the 
opening drains a small quantity of a thin discharge. Should this warn- 
ing excite no attention, a round and hard swelling appears. That may 
be like a hazel-nut in size, or it may resemble half a chestnut in magni- 
tude ; and this is soon followed by a swollen state of the vein superior 
to the orifice. 

Then supervenes the sec- 
ond stage of the disorder. 
Unhealthy abscesses are 
formed along the course of 
the vein. As these mature, 
they burst, and send forth 
an unsightly and filthy liquid 
resembling thin, contamina- 
ted pus. On examination, 
these tumors are found to 
be united. They penetrate to the interior of the vessel, and are joined 
together by numerous si- 
nuses. They literally con- 
stitute so many holes in the 
neck. 

If no attention be now 
paid to the aggravated 
symptoms, worse speedily 
ensues. In the direction 




A HORSE ■WITH PHLEBITIS, OK INFLAMMATION OP THE VEIN, IN 
THE SECOND STAGE. 




THE THIRD STAGE OF PHLEBITIS. 



26 




THE TWISTED SUTURE. 



402 PHLEBITIS. 

formerly indicated the vessel feels hard under the skin. Supposing this 
sign to be neglected, unhealthy pus issues in qtiantity from the wounds 
and soils the neck. This secretion is soon converted into a dark, impure, 
and fetid discharge resembling decayed blood. The horse grows dull 
and stupid ; the inflammation ultimately affects the brain, when the suf- 
fering and the life are extinguished in the violent agonies of phrenitis. 

The cure is easy, but everything depends upon the energy of him who 

undertakes it. When the lips of the wound which have been brought 

together by means of the twisted suture — as the "pin with tow wrapped 

round it" is professionally termed — display a tendency 

to separate, and, instead of being dry, appear moist, 

let no prejudice incline toward the ancient practice of 

fomenting and poulticing the injury. Without the loss 

of a moment in hesitation, withdraw the pin ; remove 

the substance which was twined round it, and apply a 

moderate-sized blister immediately over and around the 

puncture. Should the disease have ascended up the 

neck, still rub in a blister; only a proportionate amount 

rpin irfirsrBtuck of surface must then be acted upon. If the case be 

the°wound^^ a ^por- ^^ ^^^ ^^ possiblc, and yet the animal is alive, still a 

tion of tow, thread, hliatpr i<j inrl^pntprJ 

orhairisthOTwrap! onstcr IS ina.cateQ. 

and tocomnkte^au With the progrcss of the disease a larger space 

is'iasti'^cii'^^edoff^ should always be subjected to irritation, so as to cover 
every part the most active imagination could suppose 
to be involved. One blister, moreover, will not suffice ; another, and 
another, and another must be employed, till every sign of disorder has 
vanished. They must, however, be applied in quicker succession as the 
symptoms are more urgent, while a greater interval may be allowed 
between each when the affection is less serious. In the worst stage of 
phlebitis, another blister must be put over the part upon which the irri- 
tation of the first has not entirely ceased to act. In the second stage, 
the surface must have been barely healed before another vesicatory is 
resorted to. During the primary symptom, a single application fre- 
quently is sufficient ; or, at most, two blisters generally suffice. 

When the vessel assumes the corded state, a blister can effect no more 
than to check the progress of the disorder ; no agency, however, which 
science has placed at the disposal of man can restore the uses of the vein. 
The vessel is lost, and lost forever. If a foul and black discharge issue 
from the openings, insert a director and enlarge the wounds, joining the 
holes by slitting up the sinuses which unite them ; but do not cut the 
entire extent of the hardened vessel, as in that case yon may be deluged 
in blood. The employment of the knife and the free use of blisters 



PHLEBITIS. 403 

constitute the chief means toward the cure of phlebitis. The sinuses 
must be laid open. The probe should then be most patiently employed, 
for every sinus must be slit up. This may be done at once, when the 
hardness indicates the vessel to be closed above the part which the in- 
cision interferes with. To such an extent the knife may always be 
employed, while blisters after blisters are used, regardless of the severe 
wounds over which they are applied. 

Much relief is afforded by the large and pendulous incision, through 
which the corruption freely finds an exit. Some horses, however, from 
the pain occasioned by the raw and inflamed condition of the neck, will 
not allow the blister to be rubbed in after the ordinary fashion, especially 
when the irritation caused by the former application has not thoroughly 
subsided. In cases of this sort, do not employ the twitch or resort to 
greater restraints. Exercise your reason. Regard the. painful aspect 
of the wounds. Ask yourself how you should enjoy the hard hand of a 
groom violently scrubbed over such a part, were the soreness upon your 
own body. Act upon the response. Procure a long-haired brush, such 
as pastry-cooks use to egg over their more delicate manufactures. Go 
then into the next stall. Speak kindly to a sick inferior that is at your 
mercy. Have the creature led forth, and, with the brush just described, 
smear the part with oil of cantharides or liquid blister. The extract of 
the Spanish fly does not occasion immediate agony, and the application 
of oil will cool or soothe the anger of the wounds. 

With the jugular vein inflamed, the horse, during the period of treat- 
ment, should consume no solid food. Hay tea, sloppy mashes, and well- 
made gruel should constitute its diet. However, the gruel must not be 
given in such quantities or made so thick as the same substance would 
be allowed to a healthy horse. Gruel may not be very sustaining to the 
human being, but it is nothing more than the oat divested of the shell 
or refuse part. To the equine species such food, whether given dry or 
boiled in water, is highly stimulating; and, as fever invariably accompa- 
nies inflammation, oats in any form evidently are contraindicated. Should 
the animal, however, become ravenous, a portion of potatoes, being first 
peeled, may be boiled to a mash. Some water and a sufficiency of pol- 
lard ought to be added, and the whole presented in such a state as requires 
no mastication, but in a condition that will allow the mixture to be drawn 
between the teeth. The same thing may be done with carrots and with 
turnips, only all mashed roots, except potatoes, should be passed through 
a colander, and moistened with some of the water in which they are 
boiled. 

Any animal, during treatment, should be placed in a loose box. No 
creature should be turned into the field. It is cheaper to pasture than 



404 BROKEN KNEES. 

to stable a horse ; but the constant motion of. the legs, as the field is 
tfaveraed, is injurious to the punctured vein of the limbs, while the pen- 
dulous state of the head and the perpetual movement of the jaws are 
most prejudicial when venesection has been performed upon the neck. The 
stable is, in every point of view, the cheapest and the best residence 
The head of the animal must be tied to the rack throughout the day; 
while, at night, the halter may be lengthened, permitting the creature 
to lie down ; but the floor should be littered with tan, as straw might 
be eaten. 

Let the horse remain thus for six weeks subsequent to the completion 
of a cure. Then give gentle exercise to the extent which it can be 
borne — the quantity being small, and the pace very slow at first, but 
gradually augmented. This exercise should be maintained for three 
months. Theanimal may afterward return to slow work; but if the 
neck is the place affected, it must not wear a collar or be harnessed to 
the shafts for the next six months. At the end of that time the horse 
may return to its customary employment ; but, if ridden or driven, it is 
always well to bear in mind the late affliction, and to grant more than 
the usual time for the performance of the journey. At the expiration 
of the year, the smaller veins, having become enlarged, have adapted 
themselves to the loss which the circulation has sustained, and the horse 
may resume full work. 

For the first year, gruel, crushed and scalded oats, with two bundles 
of cut grass per day, should constitute the diet. The manger should be 
heightened, and the halter be so arranged as to prevent the head being 
much lowered. Do all in your power to render useless violent mastica- 
tion ; and, as the horse never chews when the operation is unnecessary, 
the animal will obviously second your endeavors. 

At the expiration of twelve months the animal which has lost a vein 
may be sold, and, in law, has been accounted sound. Such a blemish, 
however, is far from a recommendation ; in this case law and common 
sense may be at variance. The reader, therefore, is advised never to 
purchase a nag in such a condition without insisting upon a special war- 
ranty, in which it is provided that the animal is to be taken back should 
the loss of a vessel be productive of any evil effects within the space of 
one twelvemonth. 

BROKEN KNEES. 

These accidents affect the exterior of the central joint of the fore legs. 
They may be very trivial or very serious : they may simply ruffle the hair 
or scratch the cuticle covering the integument ; the same cause may, 
however, remove the hair and lay bare the cutis. Moreover, the wound 



BROKEN KNEES. 405 

is often aggravated by the nature of the road on which the animal is 
traveling. A fall upon a very rough surface might even destroy a por- 
tion of the skin, and deprive more or less of the cellular tissue of vitality. 

BROKEN KNEES OF VARIOUS DEGREES OF INTENSITY. 






The hair ruflBed and the The hair removed and the The skin destroyed and the 

cuticle scratched. true skin exposed. cellular tissue injured. 

Accompanying such accidents there is generally some amount of con- 
tusion. When it falls, the horse is in motion, and the impetus lends 
violence to the descent. Probably the animal is being ridden when it 
comes to the ground. The weight of the blow is not only then pro- 
portioned to the heavy body of the horse and the rate at which it is 
progressing, but its effect is augmented by the load upon its back. These 
considerations render broken knees the proper dread of every horse 
proprietor. An animal may stumble and come down which, prior to the 
mishap, would have been sold cheap for several hundreds. It may be 
raised from the ground with almost all its worth demolished. The nature 
of the hurt is not, however, always shown at first. The chief danger, 
in broken knees, lies in the accompanying contusion. The horse which 
rises without a hair ruffled, but which fell with violence, is always, with 
informed persons, a cause of considerable anxiety. Contusion is to be 
more dreaded in its consequences than is the largest wound when devoid 
of anything approaching to a bruise. 

The reason why contusion is thus gravely regarded is because, when 
that occurs in severity, the vitality of all the coverings to the knee is 
destroyed, and, in very bad cases, even the bones are materially injured. 
All dead parts must be cast from a living body ; and no man can pred- 
icate how deep maybe the injury, or how important may be the structures 
which shall be opened, when the slough takes place. 

Proprietors of horses thus injured are commonly very earnest in their 
solicitations for a professional opinion as to the extent and probable 
consequences of the accident. No certain judgment can, however, be 
pronounced, nor should one be given. Any surgical calculation, not- 
withstanding it maj^ be most prudently qualified, is apt to be miscon- 
strued by the anxiety of distress. The most guarded hint at a proba- 



406 BROKEN KNEES. 

bility of recovery is too likely to be seized upon as a positive guarantee 
of perfect restoration ; and the possible evils which may have been 
alluded to, confusion causes the individual not to remember. Therefore 
silence is wisdom in these cases, however slight the broken knee may 
appear in the first instance. 

Broken knees are principally caused by the imprudence of him in whom 
authority is invested. Certain people imagine the public admire the man 
who chastises a horse. Such persons slash away for every trivial error. 
Every imaginary fault is punished with the whip, which too often curls 
around parts that should be respected. The animal, pained and fright- 
ened, thinks only of the slasher behind it, and entirely disregards the 
path upon which its eyes should be directed. The cutting is incessant, 
and the horse's pace is incautiously fast. An impediment is encountered ; 
the animal trips ; it is cast to the ground with violence, while the man 
is probably rendered fitter for a hospital than for the continuance of his 
travels. 

Other riders and drivers always visit with severity the slightest indica- 
tion of weak limbs. A sudden drop or a false step is, to such people, the 
signal for the reins to be jagged, the voice to be raised, and the whip to 
be freely exercised upon all parts of the animal's body, but mostly about 
the face and ears. The man likes to behold the poor creature shake its 
head, and loves to imagine he is then teaching the terrified quadruped 
to be careful. Equine pupils, no more than human scholars, are to 
be tutored by barbarity, which may slay the reason long before it can 
instruct the mind. Composure is imperative to the acquirement of any 
knowledge. Thrashing calls forth terror, and alarm is synonymous with 
confusion of mind. The horse is susceptible of a fear which humanity, 
happily, finds it difiicult to conceive ; and how far such a creature is 
calculated to be educated by cruelty, the intelligent reader is left to infer. 

Could the animal argue, it might plead that the weakness objected to 
was caused by exertion made in man's service ; that the stumbling gait 
was consequent upon no negligence on its part ; that it afforded the 
beaten wretch no pleasure to have the knees broken, but, if the quadru- 
ped might profess a choice, it would prefer not falling down, etc. etc. If 
such pleas were properly considered, they perhaps might still the turbu- 
lence of the punisher. 

The great majority of these injuries are consequent upon the prejudice 
or thoughtlessness of mankind. Popular admiration is, in this country, 
much in favor of a good crest. Every animal, no matter how nature 
may have formed the neck, must carry a good head. The rider, there- 
fore, drags upon the bridle, while the form of nearly every gentleman's 
harness-horse is distorted by the bearing-rein. The constraint thus 



BROKEN KNEES. 



40? 



enforced not only obliges additional muscular action, but it disqualifies 
the animal to see the ground. In England there should be no objection 
to a blind horse, since such of the species as have eyes are, by the preju- 
dices of society, seldom permitted to use them. The horse, being urged 
on when virtually blindfold, must of necessity stumble upon any unusual 
impediment being encountered. Such an accident shows no fault in the 
quadruped ; but the man is truly responsible for those consequences which 
his folly has induced. 

When a horse stumbles, never raise your voice — the creature dreads 
its master's chiding ; never jag the reins — the mouth of the horse is far 
more sensitive than the human lips ; never use the lash — the horse is so 
timid that the slightest correction overpowers its reasoning faculties. 
Speak to the creature ; reassure the palpitating frame ; seek to restore 
those perceptions which will form the best guard against any repetition 
of the faulty action. When the legs are weak, the greater should be the 
care of him who holds the reins. No cruelty can restore the lost tonicity 
of the limbs ; therefore all slashing is utterly thrown away. If the 
reader regard his own safety, let him not, when riding, hold the head up, 
or, when driving, sanction the employment of a bearing-rein. No inhu- 
manity can convert an animal with a ewe neck into the creature with a 
naturally lofty crest. The disguise of such a defect as a head badly 
placed on the neck is an impossibility. Therefore, if you are desirous 
of a well-carried head, think of it when making the purchase. Pay 
something more, and any kind of quadruped is obtainable ; but be above 
the meanness which purchases for a low figure, and then endeavors to 
palm off its cheap article as a jewel procured at the highest price. 

When a horse has been down, never judge of the 
injury by the first appearance. While the animal 
stands in the yard, order the groom to fetch a pail, 
with milk-warm water and a large sponge. With 
these he is to clean the knees — not after the usual 
coarse and filthy fashion now universal ; not by first 
sopping the part, and then squeezing the soiled sponge 
into the pail whence more fluid is to be abstracted. 
The dabbing and smearing a wound simply irritates 
it ; and the dirt, having all entered into the pail, the 
fluid is rendered unsuited to after cleanly purposes. 

To perform the office properly, the knee should 
not be touched. The sponge should be saturated, 
then squeezed dry above the seat of injury. The 
water thus flows in a full stream over the part, and, 
by the force of gravity, carries away any loose dirt that may be upon 




THE PROPER WAT TO WASH 
A BROKEN KNEB. 



408 BROKEN KNEES. 

the surface. Sopping, dabbing, wiping, and smearing occasion pain, 
and can remove nothing which may have entered the skin and which is 
protected from the action of the sponge by a covering of hair ; whereas 
by the plan recommended the dirt is removed, the part is not debilitated, 
neither is its natural energy destroyed. The last drop of water, more- 
over, is as clean as was the first, and the animal is not irritated immedi- 
ately prior to a surgical examination. 

The wound being cleansed, a certain time should be allowed to elapse 
for the horse to recover its composure. It should return to the stable, 
have a feed of corn, and be watered. Then the real business com- 
mences. The animal should be gently approached ; its condition should 
be observed. If any nervousness is exhibited, the person ought to re- 
tire, and a further pause should be allowed. If, on the second visit, 
any unusual symptoms are displayed, have the quadruped led into the 
yard and blindfolded. Let a man take up the other fore leg, when the 
knee may be examined with safety. 

Place the palm of the hand over the joint. Hold it there to ascer- 
tain if any heat or swelling is to be detected. Should there be swell- 
ing, make gradual and gentle pressure upon it with the thumb or one 
finger. If, upon suddenly removing the hand, an indent is conspicuous, 
it argues considerable effusion, and justifies fear as to the result. Should 
neither heat nor swelling be remarked, further pressure is to be made 
with the thumb upon the knee. The force should be gentle at first and 
gradually increased. If the action is sustained well, or even moderately 
endured, it allows of hope being entertained. But should the horse 
attempt to rear upon the first impress of the thumb, the result is very 
dubious. The absence of agony is far from anything approaching to a 
positive proof, as bone and synovial membrane, tendon and ligament, do 
not take on acute inflammation when first injured ; but, from the response 
thus elicited, a fair inference as to the probability may be drawn. 

Should the skin be lacerated, the probe must be employed. Such 
injuries are very deceptive. They may be much more extensive than 
the size of the wound would indicate. The probe being of metal, ought 
not to be thrust violently against every exposed part. This kind of 
proceeding can effect no good. The probe should be held lightly be- 
tween the thumb and fore finger; no pressure should be made upon it 
— the instrument ought rather to fall of its own gravity than be forced 
into the flesh. A thin piece of wire can be readily driven into soft 
structures; but where an actual division exists, no opposition necessi- 
tating force will be encountered. 

Broken knees always happen when the horse is in motion. The 
onward impulse is not by the fall immediately destroyed ; but after the 



BROKEN KNEES. 409 

horse is down there always exists an impetus which has a tendency to 
propel the body forward. Should the skin of the knees be divided by 
the fall, the after-force obviously cannot affect the upper line of such 
division ; but the lower edge of skin will present an acute obstacle to 
the roughened ground, and will, by the grating of the body, in all prob- 
ability be rent from its attachments. When the animal rises, the action 
and the elasticity natural to the integument will occasion the torn por- 
tion of the skin which has been driven backward to once more assume 
its original position. By this means a kind of bag or purse is formed 
upon the knee. Grit, mud, and all kinds of impurities may be retained 
and concealed within this pouch. These will be disposed to irritate the 
structure with which they are in contact ; suppuration is certain to be 
established, and sad consequences have followed such sacs not being 
early detected. 

Such a cavity having been discovered, the next object is to ascertain 
its dimensions. That is done by gradually moving the probe along its 
sides. Should it be small, it will be sufficient that a hole be made 
through its most depending portion with a sharp seton needle. If it 
be large, the needle should be armed with a piece of tape knotted at 
one end. The sac being punctured, the needle is to be drawn through 
the opening, the tape being left in the cavity, and a seton is thus formed. 





PROBING THE SAC OF A BROKEN KXEK. A SETON BEINO INSERTED THROUGH 

TUE SAC OF THE KNEE. 

The seton should be knotted at the other end, and moved its entire 
length every night and morning. It will prevent all premature attempts 
to heal, will stimulate the soft parts to suppuration, and will remove the 
dirt, as the tape affords a guide to the secretion. When inserting a 
seton into the knee, always use a large curved needle. The size of the 
instruments should never be regulated by any foreign standard, but 
should always be proportioned to the magnitude of the patient and the 
intention of the operator. 



410 BROKEN KNEES. 

Three days subsequent to the full establishment of suppuration, cut 
off one of the knots, and, laying hold of the other knot, withdraw the 
seton. Its advantages by this time are gained, and its longer stay, by 
hardening the opening through which it passed, would occasion lasting 
blemish. 

The reason of its insertion is thus explained. Where foreign matter 
is confined, no wound will heal ; the orifice may close, but soon after 
abscess forms. This process is repeated until the suffering is long pro- 
tracted. Danger is generally proportioned to the duration of the evil, 
where wounds not of a mortal character are concerned. By the agency 
of the seton, the foreign matter is removed and the healing process 
thereby considerably expedited. After the above plan, all blemish may 
be lost by the expiration of the third month, and the once injured knee 
restored to its uses, being as fine as any other part of the body. 

Everything being accomplished as it is here directed, no attempt must 
in the first instance be made to poke out any particle of dirt which the 
probe may touch. The bagging skin being divided by the seton having 
been established in the sac, no further thought need, for the present, be 
given to a common but most vexatious attendant upon the customary 
treatment for broken knees. 

The animal should be returned to its usual stall and have the head 
"racked up." Some cold water should then be procured, with every 
quart of which two ounces of tincture of arnica should be blended. A 
portion of this fluid ought, with a clean sponge of moderate size, to be 
poured into a saucer ; the groom must have strict orders to take the 
sponge, and, having saturated it with the fluid, to squeeze it quite dry, 
allowing the liquor to run over the injured knee — after the manner pre- 
viously illustrated, as washing the wound. Two men are required for 
this ofiice, which should be performed every half hour throughout the 
day and night for half a week. The injury being thus made continuously 
wet, the cold produced by evaporation keeps down inflammation, while 
the arnica is a potent remedy for bruises and all kinds of contusions or 
lacerations. 

If at the expiration of the period named no swelling appears, and sup- 
puration seems to be thoroughly established by means of the seton, the 
halter may be released to a great extent, a cradle being merely fixed 
upon the horse's neck ; the animal will thereby be permitted to lie down 
and to enjoy its natural rest. 

But should the joint be much enlarged, should the part have become 
acutely sensitive, while the horse resolutely refuses to bear any weight 
upon the injured limb, then withdraw the seton, give the animal two 
pots of stout per day, and all the oats mingled with old beans which it 



BROKEN KNEES. 411 

will consume. Untie the head and place the horse in slings; employ 
the arnica lotion night and day, until the slough is thrown off, which, 
having taken place, change the liquid application for the solution of 
chloride of zinc — one scruple to the pint of water — and continue to 
employ this last lotion after precisely the same manner as has been pre- 
viously directed. 

Probabilities, however remote they may seem to be, are here endeav- 
ored to be anticipated ; although the author's experience cannot recall 
a single case where the arnica lotion has been used with proper assiduity, 
and any but the most happy results have followed. When an animal has 
fallen violently to the earth, and has been, in the first instance, shown to 
the writer with much tumefaction and excessive tenderness, a slough has 
in exceptional cases followed ; but never has the enlargement or the 
sensitiveness increased under the proper use of the arnica lotion. The 
slough, moreover, in such instances, has been superficial, only entailing 
loss of hair, and never occasioning open joint. 

All horses are exposed to these accidents for the reasons already 
stated. Whenever such misfortunes occur, employ the arnica lotion. 
Should the skin be divided, still use the arnica lotion until copious sup- 
puration is established. The secretion once seen, resort to the lotion 
formed of chloride of zinc and water — one grain to the ounce — which 
operates most marvelously upon all suppurating wounds. 

No absolute period can be stated which a case of broken knees, when 
severe, ought to occupy. The danger, however, is generally passed by the 
expiration of a week, and the cure commonly entails loss of services for 
a couple of months. 





AN ORGANIZED KNEE, ENSUING AFTEE THE APPEABANCE OF THE KNEE BUBSEQTJENT 

A LONG COUBSS OF THE OBSINART TO THE HEALING OF THE WORST CASK THE 

TREATMENT. AUTHOR EVER HAD UNDER HIS CARE. 

When adopting the foregoing mode of treatment, no bandages are to 
be employed. Such wrappers only augment the heat inherent in every 
species of inflammation. They dam up the pus and speedily become 
foul and offensive rags; cleanliness is one of the primary requisites 
toward good surgery. 



412 OPEN SYNOVIAL CAVITIES. 

No caustics of any kind are imperative or even necessary. The two 
lotions, if used with proper zeal, will accomplish all that can be desired. 
The arnica lotion should, however, be in all cases applied night and day 
during the early stage ; the chloride of zinc lotion ought to be employed 
only during the time man is usually out of bed. 

The wound, in ordinary cases, should not be washed or touched. 
Should proud flesh start up, such is positive proof of the negligence 
of the groom, whose duty it was to apply the chloride of zinc lotion. 
If the mode of treatment here laid down be strictly pursued, •the author 
can with confidence promise a satisfactory and a speedy cure. To 
enforce the value of the measures recommended, the portraits of two 
knees, which were subjected to the opposite processes, have been pre- 
sented. Both were copied from living subjects in the sixth week after 
the misfortune had occurred. 



OPEN SYNOVIAL CAVITIES. 

The primary cause of these fearful accidents is the pride of mankind ; 
gentility is always striving to impose upon credulity. It loves to be 
mistaken for something better than it really is. After all, this vice of 
society is nothing more than the child's game of " Lords and Ladies," 
played by grown-up persons. A horse having a naturally defective neck 
is obtained ; no barbarity is too abhorrent to repress the hope of mak- 
ing people believe the steed thus deformed is a creature of extremest 
value. The animal, if ridden, has the chin pulled in close to the neck ; 
if driven, the free carriage of the body is prevented by the cruel bear- 
ing-rein. The horse progresses in agony, while gentility sits smiling at 
the result of its artifice. The horse cannot see the ground before it, 
because of the constraint imposed upon the head ; it cannot fix atten- 
tion upon its duty, because of the agony which the cunning of gentility 
inflicts upon the lips. The pace is always rapid ; the action is high as 
in the case of blindness ; and the animal generally comes to the earth with 
violence. The skin upon the knees is divided, and the structures beneath 
are penetrated. One or more synovial sheaths are opened, while the 
cavities formed by the junction of the separate bones may be lacerated. 

Sheath or joint may not be immediately opened by the fall, but either 
may have their integrity destroyed through the slo.ugh induced by the 
contusion consequent upon a broken knee. Moreover, various acci- 
dents will occasionally happen — misfortune is of infinite variety. The 
synovial bursas, sheaths, or cavities of the hind legs are occasionally 
punctured by the quadruped kicking violently while in harness. The 
capsule, embracing the tendon of the flexor brachii upon the point of 



OPEN SYNOVIAL CAVITIES. 413 

the shoulder, has been opened by the animal drawing a vehicle being 
run into ; or by the horse running away and coming in contact with 
some obstacle. Any synovial cavity within the body may be penetrated 
by an unfortunate combination of circumstances ; or by the unbridled 
passion of the groom, who may have a pitchfork near at hand. So 
also they have been cut into by the arrogance of unskillful operators. 
However, it matters not how the misfortune may arise, the mode of 
treatment and the manner of cure is in all such cases exactly the same. 

Neither, »s regards the primary effect, is it of subsequent importance 
whether air be admitted into an opened bursa or sac, a synovial sheath, 
or the interior of a joint. All of these structures are formed into blad- 
ders or closed cavities. They all contain a similar secretion, which is a 
transparent, albuminous fluid, resembling white of egg. They all are 
of one use, or all serve to facilitate motion. The bursa is the smallest ; 
the synovial sheath is the next in magnitude ; and joints may be much 
the largest. The secondary effects are proportioned to their size, but 
in the first instance much constitutional disturbance will attend the 
opening of each. 

These structures are not formed to endure the presence of atmosphere ; 
air is admitted a short time after each displays inflammation. This 
creates symptoms of irritability, and air will enter before we see the 
wound. The secondary effect is, however, most to be dreaded. Bursse 
are small bladders, or closed sacs, distributed over the body, and located 
wherever the natural motions possibly might originate friction. Sheaths 
always embrace tendons, being essentially closed sacs. The secondary 
effects of tendinous sheaths are so much the more to be dreaded than 
those attending punctured bursae, because the last generally lie loosely 
between highly-organized parts ; whereas a sheath is partly fixed upon 
a tendon, and tendon, being lowly organized, is more difficult to cure 
when it is diseased. However, joints are much worse than the preceding 
two ; because in these the synovial membrane is partly spread over the 
cartilage, which lies upon the articular surfaces of bones. Now, carti- 
lage is the most lowly organized substance in the entire body. When 
disease fixes upon it the morbid condition is so slow, so irritating, and 
so difiicult to eradicate, that science almost despairs of the issue. 

The results indicated show that every effort should be made to ward 
off the secondary effect. Therefore, when an accident of this nature 
occurs, proceed with the utmost gentleness. Having procured a large 
sponge and a pail of milk-warm water, saturate the sponge and squeeze 
it dry, above the injury. Do not touch the sore, but allow the fluid, as 
it gravitates, to wash off all or any foreign matter. With regard to 
the wound, dirt seldom enters that. When it does, the suppuration which 



414 



OPEN SYNOVIAL CAVITIES. 



must ensue upon the accident will more effectually remove it than could 
hogsheads of water, however unfeelingly it might be employed. 

The part having been rendered clean, the wound is to be attentively 
observed. When nothing but blood or serum, or thin, discolored fluid 
can be seen, this argues the more important structures are entire. Should 
there be among, and yet distinct from, those discharges, a transparent, 
glairy liquid flowing forth, such is absolute proof some synovial mem- 
brane has been severed. The size of the current and the abundance of 
the secretion are also evidences not to be despised. Probabilities may 
be inferred from these circumstances. If the amount of the synovia be 
small, there is hope that a bursa only has been interfered with ; when the 
amount is large, it demonstrates that either a sheath is punctured or the 
joint itself may have been opened. Synovial cavities between bones 
may be larger, and are much more active than the sheaths of tendons ; 
therefore the magnitude of the current should be observed; although, 
when the integrity of many parts has been destroyed, little absolute 
dependence will be placed upon the comparative quantity of the syno- 
vial secretion. 

Anatomy is, under the circumstances, a fair guide. Where numerous 
structures are involved, a well-grounded learning is requisite for accu- 
rate judgment ; but as regards the knee of the horse, the spot whence 

No.1. No. 2. 





THE TENDONS WHICH CROSS THE OUTSIDE OF THE 
KNEE-JOINT. 

ExplaDation of No 1. 

1. The extensor metacarpi tendon. 

2. The extensor metacarpi obliquus tendon. 

3. The extensor pedis tendon. 

4. 5, 7. Connecting and restraining bands between 

the tendons. 
6. The extensor suffraginis tendon. 

8. The flexor metacarpi externus tendon. 

9. The back sinews. 



THE TENDONS WHICH CKOSS THE INSIDE OP THB 

KNEE-JOINT. 

Explanation of No. 2. 

1. The extensor metacarpi tendon. 

2. The extensor metacarpi obliquus tendon. 

3. The flexor metacarpi internus tendon. 

4. The back sinews. 

The letter a denotes the only spot where 
the knee-joint could probably be opened 
by a fall without lacerating a synovial 
heath or ii^'uring a tendon. 



the synovial discharge issues is of all importance. The incision must 
either be very deep and gaping, (all subjacent structures being divided 
before the knee-joint can be exposed,) or else the wound must affect a 
very circumscribed place. The reader, by consulting the above ana- 
tomical engravings of the horse's knee, will remark how closely it is laced 



OPEN SYNOVIAL CAVITIES. 



415 




PROBING BROKEN KNEE. 



about with tendon. Each of the tendons, when crossing the joint, is 
embraced in a synovial sheath. From such information, it will instantly 
be seen how far more likely a sheath is to be lacerated than the joint is 
to be punctured. 

The single point where the joint could be entered without severing 
tendon, lies rather on one side than directly in the center. The vulner- 
able spot is therefore not exposed to the full force of the blow. To lay 
bare the joint by an ordinary fall several parts must be divided. Rarely 
is an accidejit witnessed of so fearful an extent. Generally that which 
is spoken of as open joint proves to be no more than 
punctured sheath, the presence of synovia being 
commonly accepted as the proof. But when the 
joint is really laid open, the immense flow of syno- 
via — so many sheaths being severed — should at once 
prove the fact. 

The probe must next be used. In the first in- 
stance it should be employed to ascertain whether 
the fall has left any purse or sac at the inferior part 
of the joint. All which was enforced respecting 
the use of metallic wire to a raw wound must here 
be observed. The probe had better be altogether 
discarded than employed with the smallest approach to rudeness. 

The suspected sac having been discovered, a large spatula is placed 
below the knee. A knife with a keen point, but with the edge only 
sharpened for one-third of its length, is 
to be used. Upon the cutting point of 
the knife a piece of beeswax is firmly 
moulded. The wax answers the pur- 
pose of a temporary probe ; the blade, 
thus guarded, is cautiously inserted be- 
neath the loose flap of skin. When the 
bottom of the pouch is reached, a cer- 
tain amount of resistance will be encoun- 
tered; through this the knife is driven. 
The force cuts in twain the wax, and 
pushes through the integument the blade, 
which the spatula guides from the leg. 
This operation should be performed 

quickly ; the hand should simply be carried downward, and then brought 
upward when all is concluded; care, however, being taken that the 
withdrawal of the knife does not injure any part save those it was 
designed to cut. 




THE MANNER OF OPENING THE DIRT SAC, IN 
CASE ONE SHOULD BE PRESENT WITH OPEN 
JOINT. 



416 OPEN SYNOVIAL CAVITIES. 

Should the horse be nervous, it is desirable to blindfold the animal 
and order the groom to hold up the sound leg ; the creature can then 
only rear. When thus disabled, that movement is rendered difficult, and 
it is proportionably slow. The operation, if properly performed, should 
be over before action can be prepared for; and by the knife a consider- 
able incision is made in the bottom of the sac, through which all grit or 
dirt can, with the pus, readily pass. 

The examination concludes with a second resort to the probe. The 
instrument is in surgery of great use ; but as it is commonly employed, 
reason may doubt whether injured life has been much benefited by its 
invention. It generally is raked and poked about as though the person 
holding it was determined, at all hazards, to ascertain the length, 
breadth, and every irregularity of the wound he is asked to cure ; much 
harm is thereby done. Delicate attachments which, if not interfered 
with, might induce speedy reunion, are thus broken down, and the injury 
aggravated ; while the operator thinks he ought to know all about the 
lesion he is to treat, and supposes that he can possibly do no harm with 
an instrument which the best schools order to be employed. 

A good surgeon has no curiosity to gratify ; all he desires to know is 
so much as will enable him to benefit the patient 
„ ' , placed under his care. Therefore never abuse the 

probe in cases of open synovial cavities. Imagine 
the distance the bones are from the surface; and, 
if the probe can enter a very little beyond that 
distance, such a fact demonstrates the cavity to be 
exposed. When a horse is before you with syno- 
via running from a wound upon the knee, have the 
leg slightly flexed ; look for the most free space, 
PROBING AN OPEN JOINT. ^^^ '^^^^ ^^^^ luscrt thc probc. The' bones of the 
knee-joint are directly under the skin ; and, when 
no opposition is encountered for three-quarters of an inch, be sure the 
joint is exposed. 

Most of the cases narrated as opened joints were simply punctures 
into synovial sheaths ; as such, they were sufficiently serious, but not of 
so important a character as is assumed for them. Synovia is placed 
between the ends of bones, its use being to prevent the friction which 
otherwise would be occasioned by the movement of one hard body upon 
another. Being confined in a circumscribed sac and incapable of much 
compression, the liquid performs all the uses which could appertain to 
the most solid substance. When the fluid — which, from its thick appear- 
ance and unctuous feel, was formerly termed "joint oil" — has escaped, 
the bones grate against each other, inflammation ensues, all neighbor- 




OPEN SYNOVIAL CAVITIES. 



41T 



ing parts sympathize, and the constitution suffers from intense irri- 
tation. 

Something of this kind happens when a synovial sheath is punctured. 
The tendon comes in contact with its investing synovial membrane; but 
there are reasons why that circumstance is not so serious as when the 
lubricating fluid is released from the cavity of a joint. Tendons support 
no weight, and their motion is, with the sick, almost optional. The 
bones are the pillars on which the body rests ; even while the frame is 
prostrated, a certain degree of pressure is upon them ; for that reason, 
and also because tendon is more highly organized than cartilage, the 
first-mentioned substance is endowed with the greater renovating energy. 
An open joint is consequently far more serious than a punctured sheath. 

Notwithstanding the serious nature of these ac- 
cidents when wrongly treated, few injuries yield 
more kindly to proper measures than open joint. 
However, should the ordinary treatment of caustics 
and bandages be adopted, the entire limb, before 
the expiration of a week, will be hot, hard, and 
tense. The health of the animal will be seriously 
affected by the continued irritation, and the body 
will rapidly become emaciated. The foot of the 
limb will with evident difficulty be held from the 
ground. Should not death interpose — the animal 
being unable to lie down, and the entire weight 
being cast upon the sound limb — the foot attached 
to the healthy member frequently becomes affected 
with the worst form of incurable laminitis. 

Even should such a misfortune as laminitis not 
occur, the after-deformity and blemish renders the 
horse almost worthless. The bones sympathize in the general disease. 




THE INJURED LEO, HARD, HOT, 
TENSE, AND SWOLLEN — ALL 
RESULTING FROM THE IN- 
JUDICIOUS EMPLOTMENT OF 
BANDAGES. 




OSSEOUS STRUCTURE HAS BEEN THROWN OUT, 
CAUSING ENLARGED KNEE AND PERMANENT 
BLEMISH — THE RESULTS OP USING BANDAGES. 




EXTENSIVE LOSS OP HAIR, GENERAL ENLARGEMENT OF 
THE KNEE, AND ORGANIZED THICKENING OF THl 
SOAR — RESULTING FROM THE USE OF BANDAGES. 



and a large osseous deposit is engendered to mark the surgical inapti- 
tude. When bony growth does not follow, the parts lying immediately 

27 



418 OPEN SYNOVIAL JOINTS. 

over the knee thicken ; the skin sloughs, and, the integument never being 
restored, a full knee with a lasting blemish is the consequence. 

OPEN SYNOVIAL JOINTS. 

The more favorable terminations are never to be anticipated when the 
barbarity of bandages and the cruelty of caustics are sanctioned. The 
horse which recovers from such treatment is, by an enlarged and blem- 
ished limb, rendered an object painful to contemplate, and is entirely 
unsuited to any gentleman's uses, while the life of the creature is ren- 
dered burdensome. There is nothing in the proper treatment which a 
child might not safely apply. The measures create no pain and require 
no force ; they rather soothe than irritate, and therefore are always sub- 
mitted to with complacency. 





OPEN JOINT ENSniNG UPON BROKEN KNEE, THE GENERAL APPEARANCE OP AN OPEN 

AND SOLELY CAUSED BY THE ABUSE OP JOINT WHEN FIRST SUBMITTED TO THE 

BANDAGES. NOTICE OF THE SURGEON. 

The animal, when first brought in, never displays symptoms indicating 
the full extent of its injury. The part which has been wounded gener- 
ally presents something like the aspect represented in the engraving on the 
right. Commonly there is an evident flow of synovia, but the most care- 
ful examination can seldom detect positive evidence of an open joint. 

The full extent of the evil cannot be known before the slough takes 
place. This is certain to follow upon the customary bleeding, physick- 
ing, low diet, bandages, and caustics being employed. As recovery is 
wished for, all such aggravations must be rejected. Proceed, in the first 
instance, as has been directed for broken knee ; and these things being 
done, give the following drink : — 

Sulphuric ether One ounce. 

Laudanum One ounce. 

Water Half a pint. 

Give this without noise or violence. 

Treat the frightened animal with even more gentleness and patience 
than would be bestowed upon a sick child. A harsh word may now, 



OPEN SYNOVIAL JOINTS. 419 

when the system is shaken and every nerve unstrung, do that harm which 
no medicine can repair. 

Having given the drink, look at the animal and take the pulse. Should 
the appearance denote inward comfort, should the pulse be natural, give 
no more drinks ; but if the eye is in constant motion, if the horse breathe 
hard and start at sounds, if the head is held high and the ears are active, 
repeat the ethereal draught, and continue repeating it every hour until 
the foregoing symptoms abate. 

The object of the medicine being gained, have the horse quietly led 
into a stall ; the stall it has been used to is the best, and the favorite 
neighbor need not be removed.. But all other quadrupeds which might 
disturb the sick animal should be taken out of the building. A good, 
clean bed should be shaken down, and the diet must be suited to the 
symptoms. If the pulse is at all low, no hay should be allowed till it 
amends ; should the arterial beat denote oppression, a rather large pro- 
portion of beans may be blended with the oats. If the breathing is 
short, the countenance unhappy, and the eye sleepy, while a very quick 
and feeble pulse only is to be detected, give four of the ethereal drinks 
in the twenty-four hours. Also allow two quarts of stout daily. 

All horses should be accustomed to drink beer ; with very little teach- 
ing they abandon their teetotal habits, and will by very expressive action 
signify delight at the sight of a pewter pot. The best means of intro- 
ducing the beverage to their notice is, in the first instance, to break a 
penny lo9,f into pieces, to soak the pieces in the beverage, and then to 
offer them, one by one, from the hand of the master or the favorite at- 
tendant. Animals quickly learn to recognize their owners. The dog 
will bestow such a welcome upon its proprietor as is never lavished 
upon any stranger. The horse also learns to recognize the individual 
whose property it has become. See the animal which has carried the 
groom without excitement to the door, and which has walked before the 
house with pendant head and listless ears : the moment the door opens 
and the master appears, all dejection is cast oflF; the creature cannot 
stand still when the foot is in the stirrup ; and, immediately the weight 
is felt upon the back, the happy quadruped prances gayly off, often at 
the risk of unseating him who has provoked this demonstration of ex- 
cessive pleasure. 

The master who is unknown has earned his fate by his neglect, and 
probably may live to repent his inattention to the duties which Provi- 
dence has intrusted to his charge. The affections of the meaoest 
creature that breathes are blessings which the highest and the proudest 
may well stoop to gain. The' love of a horse is not to be despised; 
the noble quadruped is easier controlled by its uncultivated impulses 



420 



OPEN SYNOVIAL JOINTS. 



than by all the restraints which brutes have invented or fools have 
adopted. It should enter into the considerations of every life assurance 
company, whether the man who takes out a policy is of a nature likely 
to be loved by the animals which he possesses. 

Beer is everywhere procurable, and it is not to be altogether con- 
temned as a medicinal stimulant. Many a horse which is now lost upon 
every hard field-day would have been saved if the animal had been 
pulled up at the nearest public house to be presented with a slice of 
bread and a pint of beer. Such nourishment would 
not load the stomach ; but it would serve to keep off 
that utter exhaustion from which too many steeds 
fail. 

The animal being in its stall, then apply the lotion, 
composed of tincture of arnica, two ounces ; water, 
one quart. Use this by means of a sponge and saucer. 
Pour some of the liquor into the receptacle. Satu- 
rate the sponge and squeeze the fluid upon the leg, 
but above the injured knee. Do this after the man- 
ner which is illustrated as the proper mode of wash- 
ing the wounded part. 

Continue with the arnica lotion, night and day, for 
half a week. No periods can be named for applying 
the sponge, as inflammations, and therefore the dry- 
ing powers, vary in different individuals ; but the 
knee should be always wet. This should be attended to for the first 
three days and a half, during which the halter should be tied to the 
rack. At the end of that time turn the horse very gently round. Re- 
member the condition of the limb, and allow time for the performance 
of an action which is always an effort to the most agile of the equine 
species, as few stalls are a single inch too wide. 

The animal being with its face to the gangway, and fastened by the 
pillar-reins, place the slings before it. Leave the creature to contem- 
plate the apparatus for half an hour. Then take the cloth and hold it 
up to the inspection of the quadruped. Afterward place it, between 
the fore and hind legs — pausing and speaking kindly should alarm be 
displayed. Thus by degrees fix it to the pulleys and bring it near to 
the abdomen, which, however, should by no means be touched. Then 
caress the creature's head, and present some of its favorite food : eating 
generally tranquilizes the mind of an animal. So much being done, 
proceed to fix the straps upon the chest and withers. Then fondle the 
sufferer again, and it will permit the hind tackle to be arranged. 

When all is fixed, leave a pail of water suspended from one pillar, 




THE MANNER IN WHICH LO- 
TION SHOULD BE APPLIED 
TO AN OPEN JOINT. 



OPEN SYNOVIAL JOINTS. 



421 



and put an elevated trough, charged with favorite provender, in front 
of the horse. Let it be watched till a week from the date of the injury 
has expired, and never left during that period even for an instant. If 
any restlessness is exhibited, the attendant should approach and caress 
the creature. Quadrupeds — though none comprehend the precise mean- 
ing of the language — love to be praised. The hand, fondly applied to 
the skin, and the human voice, modulated by kindness, seem to convey a 
purport to animals which they will suffer pain to deserve. The writer 
lately had a favorite dog, whose aversion was dry bread. It would hold 
the detested morsel in its mouth for hours, looking most uncomfortable, 
but making no attempt at mastication. Yet, upon praise being lavished, 
the eye would brighten, and, rather than prove unworthy of so much 
commendation, the hardest and stalest crust would be chewed and swal- 
lowed. 

Watching is necessary, because many horses when thus imprisoned, 
being left alone, grow terrified and injure themselves by struggling their 
bodies out of the slings. The presence of any human being assures 
the timidity and checks the active imagination of a solitary animal. The 
author well knows that the learning of the present time denies imagina- 
tion to animals. Shying, is only the creature imagining something 
which is not actually before it. What are dreams but positive evidences 
of imagination ? All people 
have heard the suppressed 
bark and seen the excited 
limbs of the dog as it slept 
upon the hearth rug. How 
many grooms have been 
surprised, upon their ear- 
liest visit, to see the stable 
knocked to pieces and the 
horse prostrated amid the 
ruin it has created ! How is 
this to be explained if imag- 
ination b^ not present in the 
animal ? This is the author's 
interpretation of the mystery. 
Dreams are active, in pro- 
portion to the immaturity of 
the reason. Children often 

wake up in tears, and continue screaming in terror for long periods if 
unattended to. The horse starts out of a fearful vision ; darkness is 
about it; the fear augments; the animal begins kicking; the sound 




A HORSE IK SLINGS FOR OPEN JOINT. 



422 . OPEN SYNOVIAL JOINTS. 

made by its own feet increases the creature's alarm; it lashes out 
frequently until it has pounded part of its dwelling into atoms and dis- 
abled itself to that degree which makes the highest punishment the 
greatest mercy. 

A high trough is required to guard against the effects of that itching 
which attends the healing process, and provokes the animal to strike its 
knees. This it would do against the manger were its head in the cus- 
tomary position. Were a wall before it, the knees might still be laid 
open ; but with a high trough nothing is within the reach of its injured 
joint. Even supposing one of the slender supports, by the cunning of 
excitement, to be struck, the substance should be too light to offer any 
dangerous resistance, the blow being far more likely to overturn the 
niachine than to lacerate the limb. 

When the quadruped has remained sufficient time in the slings to have 
become familiar with them, pull up the cloth so that it may slightly 
touch but not press against the belly. Then well secure it, and leave 
the animal to rest its wearied limbs, or not, as it pleases. Its suffering 
joints will soon teach the horse to bear the entire weight upon such a 
support, and to sleep comfortably in the contrivance. With a few, and 
only a few examples, living in slings has induced such confirmed consti- 
pation as necessitated a daily resort to bran mashes. Most horses, 
however, speedily accept and grow fat, enjoying the relief thus afforded. 
Only one caution need be given — look well to the tackle. The horse is 
very heavy, and should a single fastening prove insecure, the result 
might convert a healing wound into a hopeless injury. 

With the employment of slings, change the lotion for one composed 
of chloride of zinc, one scruple ; water, one pint ; this need be applied 
only during the day. It is too weak to occasion 
pain, and should be used with the saucer and 
sponge, after the manner of washing a broken 
knee or open joint, which has been previously 
illustrated. The strength, nevertheless, is suf- 
ficient to coagulate the albumen of the synovia. 
Thus it forms a species of natural^ bandage 
which excludes the air, while at the same time 
THE ALBUMINOUS BALL, WHICH It stlmulatcs thc flcsh aud causes that to heal 

FORMS IN SHAPE OP AN OPEN 1 .1 i x- i? -j. 11 • 

JOINT WHEN TREATED TniH uudcr thc protBCtiou 01 its own albuminous 

A ^SOLUTION OP CHLORIDE OF ^^^^^^^^^ 

The coagulated albumen frequently accumu- 
lates in front of the knee. The author has seen it attached to the part 
quite of the size and very near to the form of the largest apple. It 
must on no account be touched, however large it may grow or however 




WOUNDS. 423 

insecure it may appear. Respect it, and it will fall off when its service 
is accomplished. The cure is nearly completed when the white ball 
falls. Shortly after the wounds being closed, and pressure made with 
the fingers — not with the thumb — can be endured, the slings may be 
removed; though the healing should be further confirmed before the 
horse is allowed to stand opposite to any substance against which it 
may strike what recently has been a fearful open joint. 

WOUNDS. 

To this species of injury the horse is much exposed from the reckless- 
ness or incompetence of those who assume to hold the reins of authority. 
Occurrences which are politely termed "accidents," generally entail 
suffering upon the blameless animal. The common provocatives of such 
accidents are either the drunkenness of man or his utter ignorance of 
the mental attributes of the quadruped he has possession of. The first 
cause shall be passed over in disgust ; the second merits some consider- 
ation, being rather a universal than an individual fault. 

When a horse pauses, always endeavor to ascertain the motive ; the 
reason may be groundless. By gentleness, convince the creature that 
its fears are without foundation, and you earn a supremacy as well as 
win a gratitude which will always be cheerfully acknowledged. Never 
employ the whip to correct " the obstinacy of the brute." The horse 
is naturally very fearful ; were it not so, man would never have obtained 
that mastery which is imperative for domestication. Elderly gentlemen 
should never thrust their heads out of carriage windows and shout to 
the driver to "go on." Such implied chiding may urge the coachman 
to display severity, and the horse is dangerous when alarmed. So long 
as the animal continues calm, the superiority of man is submitted to ; 
but once excite the terror of the quadruped, and all earthly restraint 
is powerless. Dread assumes the form of the wildest fury, and the 
horse tears onward, insensible to mortal punishment and blind to every 
danger. 

It is in this manner the most terrible wounds are produced. Such 
injuries, in surgical language, are defined to be "solutions of continuity," 
or "separations of the skin and soft parts underneath." Neither of 
these definitions, however, includes a bruise or a contused wound. There- 
fore, for the present purpose, a wonnd will be interpreted an injury in- 
flicted by external violence. 

A lacerated wound may be too trivial to attract the surgeon's notice, 
as a scratch. It may also be a very serious affair, as when a cart-wheel 
runs against a horse's thigh, tearing the flesh asunder. Laceration is 




424 WOUNDS. 

generally accompanied by contusion, though contusion forms no neces- 
sary part of a lacerated wound. When such injuries are inflicted, they 
are mostly followed by little hemorrhage ; yet it is 
far from unusual for an animal thus hurt to perish. 
Shock to the system is the most serious of the pri- 
mary effects. Beyond that the immediate conse- 
quence appears to be insignificant. Little blood is 
lost, for the vessels are stimulated by the violence 
which rends these tubes and the soft structures 
asunder. Stimulation causes the torn mouths of 
the arteries and veins to close or to retract. The 
ragged coats of the vessels, the loose fibers of the 
flesh, and the jagged cellular tissue likewise fall over 
DIAGRAM OF A 8EVEEE ^hc orificcs, aud hclp to stay the flow of the vital 

LACEEATED WOUND. CUrrCUt 

The dangers attending lacerated wounds spring, 
in the first instance, from collapse. This possibility being overcome, 
the immediate peril has been surmounted; all injuries of this nature 
are commonly attended, however, with more or less contusion. The 
force necessary to tear open a portion of the body will, of necessity, 
bruise or kill some part of the flesh. Any animal substance, when 
deprived of vitality, must be cast off by a living body ; a slough must 
follow. Now that process is attended with hazard in proportion as it 
is tardily accomplished. The period of its occurrence is always one of 
anxiety ; for when this process takes place, the stimulation that orig- 
inally caused the vessels to retract no longer exists. All mechanical 
opposition to hemorrhage is, with the loss of the dead matter, generally 
removed. Everything, therefore, depends upon the fibrinous deposit — a 
sort of glutinous material secreted by the body, which is commonly 
largely poured forth when any slough by natural and speedy action is 
effected. Should the frame be so far debilitated as to prevent all secre- 
tion of fibrin, the most frightful bleeding must ensue. 

The horse which has not recovered from the original injury will then 
sink under the terrible depletion. Therefore, it is impossible to form 
any opinion of the injurious effects or of the consequences likely to 
follow a lacerated wound before some time has elapsed. 

An incised wound implies a division, more or less deep, of the soft 
parts. This form of injury produces less shock to the system, and 
generally heals more quickly than any other. The principal danger is 
encountered at the moment when the wound is inflicted ; vessels may be 
sundered, and they are cut in twain with the least possible irritation to 
the parts within which they are situated. The veins and arteries, there- 



WOUNDS. 



425 




DIAGRAM OF AN INCISED WOUND. 



fore, do not generally retract any more than do the soft structures. A 
gash into a fleshy substance always produces a gaping wound, which is 
wide in proportion to the depth and length of 
the injury. From that hurt the dark-colored 
venous blood drains in a stream, while the bright 
scarlet or arterial blood is propelled forth in 
jets, sometimes to a considerable distance. 
These jets correspond with the pulsations of the 
heart; but as syncope or fainting takes place, 
the emission ceases with the beating of the cir- 
culatory center. 

The danger consequent upon an incised 
wound is ever measured by the extent of the 

hemorrhage. When large arteries are divided, that fact is easily told 
by the size and the force of the jets sent forth. A strong horse may, 
from that cause, be dead in ten minutes. To enforce the diflference 
between a lacerated and an incised wound, the reader is reminded of 
those painful cases, frequently recorded in the newspapers, where a 
limb is by machinery torn from a poor man's 
body, and scarcely a drop of blood marks the 
deprivation ; also of death by severing a throat, 
when sensation ceases ere the stream has flowed 
forth. The last is an incised, the first is a 
lacerated wound. 

An abraded wound, in its mildest form, is 
simply a graze. The reader will, however, 
remember how acutely painful such accidents 
always are. The horse's sufferings are not 
highly estimated by the generality of people; 
nevertheless, an injury of this description is 
not to be despised, even when witnessed on 
the animal. A broken knee, as it generally is 
exhibited, is nothing more than an abrasion. 
An abraded wound may simply mean that the 

insensible outer covering of the skin has been injured ; it may also 
imply that the soft structures beneath have been sundered. Wounds 
of this kind are not free from danger when of magnitude. Little blood 
may flow, but the cutis is the most sensitive structure of the entire 
body. A needle's point cannot enter any part of the skin without sen- 
sation warning the person of a puncture. In human operations, divi- 
sion of the skin, or separation of the cutis, is known to constitute the 
inajor portion of the patient's agony. 




DIAGRAM OP AN ABRADED ■WOUND. 




426 WOUNDS. 

The suffering attendant on the latter class of injuries is increased by 
almost every abrasion forcing grit or dirt into the substance of the cutis. 
This, of course, is generally washed out. The torture accompanying a 
large abraded surface is, therefore, very great; and horses when suffer- 
ing from accidents of such a nature sometimes sink from the irritation 
consequent upon the injury. When the animals survive, the roots of 
the hair too often have been destroyed, and a perpetual blemish is the 
result. 

A punctured wound is always dangerous ; the hazard in this, as in 

every species of injury, is greatly increased 
when inlSicted on parts liable to any vast 
amount of motion. Thus, punctures occur- 
ring over the stifle-joint too often set our 
best surgery at defiance. The muscles of 
the hind leg contract with every move- 
ment of the body. Added to that, the 
part abounds with fascia. 
x-iAORAM OF A PtNCTunEi, WOUND. rj.^^ majority of thcsc wouuds heal by 

''\VS!:rZrZTaX"l''al^"ll suppuration. Fascia is a substance no pus 
exrnt*ofthf!Su;;!'rth'ti^tl! can penetrate, and which is more easily 
fhT™'ntTLmnsXraLS ^cnt than puucturcd. The exit of the 

secretion, therefore, is opposed in many 
directions, while the ceaseless motion occasions the matter to burrow. 
The sinuses thus produced are by the fascia guided to the stifle-joint; 
and, when once the synovial cavity is polluted by the intrusion of the 
unhealthy pus, all the best efforts of science are useless. 

When a punctured wound occurs, the skin, being elastic, stretches 
before the instrument by which the wound is inflicted. The soft parts 
beneath the skin, not being elastic to the same degree as the integument, 
break down before the penetrating force. They are torn or lacerated ; 
for generally the muscles receive a larger injury than would be cal- 
culated from the size of the instrument by which the blow was inflicted. 
The rent flesh must be cast off by a slough — corruption generally at- 
tends that process. Much of the pus secreted cannot find an exit 
through the opening in the skin ; a large portion of it is confined 
within the puncture. There it decays, and, being impelled by the 
motion of the limb, readily finds its way in all directions save the 
upward one. 

No judgment approaching to accuracy can be formed at the first sight 
of a punctured wound. The probe may ascertain the depth of the injury, 
but it cannot tell the extent of damage done to the interior of the body. 
Therefore, whether the hoof is pierced by a nail, or the muscles are lacer- 




WOUNDS. 42t 

ated by the shaft of a cart — ^be the instrument large or small — the conse- 
quences likely to follow upon the injury cannot be foretold. 

A contusion, in its mildest form, is simply a bruise. Injuries of thi? 
class, when of magnitude, are very deceptive ; the surface is unstained 
by blood, and there is no flesh exposed. For these 
reasons the ignorant are apt to disregard such acci- ^■^/y^JM-ui'i 
dents, and to express surprise when they terminate H||^%< 
otherwise than kindly. When a bruise happens, blood H' / '/ ' 
is effused in smaller or larger quantities according to |h|^^^,jj 
the extent of the injury. A small quantity of effused 
blood, sufficient to discolor the human skin, may be 
absorbed ; but when the amount is large, the powers 

„ , T n 1 mT_ 1 1 J il i J. DIAGRAM OF A CONTUaED 

of nature are defied. The blood thrown out, not wound. 

being taken up again, congeals, and ultimately cor- 
rupts. Then an abscess or a slough is necessitated ; both are attended 
with danger : the first may be deep seated or superficial ; either form is 
attended by much weakness. That generates considerable irritation, and 
may even be the cause of fatal hemorrhage ; or it may lead to sinuses, 
the direction, the number, or extent of which, when they do occur, is not 
to be predicated. A bruise is, consequently, not to be judged of hastily. 
The amount of pain which it provokes is even unworthy dependence, as 
the injury may have hurt the bone or the tendon ; and then, though the 
accident is rendered very serious, in the first instance no sign of agony 
announces the extent of the evil. 

With regard to treatment, when a lacerated wound occurs, the first 
attention should be paid to the system, which has always been much 
shaken. Give, therefore, the drink composed of one ounce each of laud- 
anum and sulphuric ether, with half a pint of water ; repeat it every 
quarter of an hour till the shivering natural to the horse, on these occa- 
sions has disappeared, and the pulse has recovered its healthy tone. 

Avoid all poultices of the ordinary kind ; one composed of one-fourth 
yeast and three-fourths of any coarse grain, excepting bran, may be 
applied. So also may a lotion thus composed : — 

Lotion for Lacerated Wounds. 

Tincture of cantharides One ounce. 

Chloride of zinc Two drachms. 

Water Three pints. 

Mix. Keep a rag constantly wet over the part. 

Either will stimulate the parts, and probably prevent any tendency to 
unhealthy action. The yeast poultice produces this effect by giving off 
carbonic acid ; the lotion accomplishes this intention by both its active 



i28 WOUNDS. 

ingredients. Each is stimulating, also disinfectant, and will counteract 
any filthy odor which may attend the sloughing process ; but the lotion 
is perhaps to be preferred, as it is more easily applied. When the slough 
has taken place, should hemorrhage ensue, dash upon the part jug after 
jug of the coldest water ; or, should no very cold water be at hand, drive 
.upon the mouths of the vessels a current of wind from the nozzle of the 
bellows. Continue to do this till the bleeding ceases, or until a surgeon 
can be obtained to take up the arteries. 

The after-treatment is simple : apply frequently the solution of chlo- 
ride of zinc, one grain to an ounce of water ; that lotion will cleanse the 
wound and prevent unpleasant smells. 

As respects feeding, this must be regulated by the character of the 
pulse. Should the beat of the artery be quick and feeble, no hay should 
be given ; good, thick gruel should constitute the only drink excepting 
in extreme cases, when two pots of porter may be allowed each day. 
Good oats and old beans, both crushed and scalded, should then consti- 
tute the food, and the utmost gentleness should be exercised toward the 
animal. 

Should the pulse be natural, allow three feeds of oats each day, as, in 
every kind of injury to the horse, more danger is to be apprehended 
from debility than from any excess of energy. 

Incised wounds. — When these happen, always dash the part with plenty 
of cold water or blow upon them with the bellows. Place the horse in 
the nearest shed ; motion promotes hemorrhage, therefore a walk is not 
to be hazarded. The bleeding being arrested — for, in severe accidents* 
of this kind, there is no time to send for assistance — let the animal 
remain perfectly quiet until the exposed surface has become almost dry, 
but on being touched by the finger feels sticky. Then draw the edges 
together, and keep them in that position by means of sutures. 

The best means of inserting these sutures is 
with a curved needle fixed into a handle. The 
handle is wanted to obtain the necessary power, 
and the needle's point should be sharp to pen- 
etrate the hide of the horse, which in places 
is of considerable thickness. The needle is 
thrust through the integument about one inch 
and a half from one margin of the incision ; it 
is brought out about the same distance within 
FIXED SUTURE NEEDLE: VERT USE- thc dlvldcd soft parts. It cutcrs the opposite 

FUL FOR INCISED WODNDS OF NO . j /. , , j 1 fl I, _ „ 'iU J.V. 1 

GREAT DEPTH. sidc of thc suudcrcd flesh even with the place 

whence it came forth, and afterward it appear.^. 

through the skin about equally distant from the opposite edge of the 




WOUNDS. 



429 



wound. There is a hole near the point of the needle ; through this 
opening a piece of strong twine or narrow tape is threaded ; when, the 
instrument being withdrawn, the twine or tape is pulled into the punc- 
ture which has been made. The needle is then released, the suture being 
left in. 

So many sutures as may be necessary are thus inserted — in small 
wounds, these being about two inches asunder, but in larger injuries, 




THE MANNER OF USING THE FIXED SETON NEEDLE. 



A second person pushes the wound together, and, when the point of the needle appears, threads it with 
a piece of zinc wire or soft string. The needle is then retracted, and released from the wire or string, 
whereby a suture is left in the wound. 




DIAGRAM OF SUTURES WHEN TIED AND 
LEFT IN A WOUND. 



three inches apart. All are duly placed before any are tied ; the whole 

being ready, the wound is forced together by an assistant, while the 

strings are fastened — care being exercised 

not to bring any of them actually tight, 

lest the motion of the body or the swelling 

of the part should drag the sutures through 

the flesh and thereby tear them out. 

A wound thus united may possibly heal 
by first intention, or the divided parts, when 
brought together, may join, and give no further trouble to the surgical 
attendant. 

Union by first intention is, however, somewhat rare in the horse ; and 
should not that take place, suppuration will be established. So soon as 
the pus flows freely forth, and the sutures appear to tighten or drag, cut 
them out by snipping the twine ; but allow the strings to loosen before 
you attempt their withdrawal. 

If this is not done, the sutures will speedily find an exit for themselves 
by causing the flesh against which the tension acts to be absorbed ; thus 
the original injury will be rendered more complicated, and the ultimate 
blemish must be altogether greater. 

All that is required after the establishment of suppuration is to bathe 



430 • WOUNDS. 

the part with the solution of chloride_of zinc, one grain to the ounce of 
water. This lotion will suppress any fetor, and gently stimulate the 
healing process, as well as prevent the sprouting of fungoid granula- 
tions ; it is necessary also to attend strictly to the directions laid down 
for feeding during the curing of wounds. 

No. 2. 



No. 1. 





TWO KINDS OF SUTURES RARELT EMPLOTED UPON THE HORSE. 

No. 1. The continuous suture, which is employed for sewing up portions of bowel when the intestines 

are injured and exposed. 
No, 2. The deep suture or the quill suture. In the horse pieces of wood are substituted for quills. The 

wood is notched in the center; and upon the indentations the sutures are fixed, to prevent the 

movements of the animal from displacing them. It is sometimes employed to bring the sides 

of deep and gaping wounds closer together. 

The treatment of an abraded wound chiefly consists in cleansing the 
surface with plenty of cold water, which should be allowed by its own 
weight to wash off any loose particles of dirt. No cloth or other aid 
should be employed to scrub the living flesh as though it were an insen- 
sitive board. The matter which cannot be removed by simply sluicing, 
had better remain to be expelled by the secretion of pus. The horse, 
especially when terrified, endures pain very badly ; indeed, the animal is 
so timid and so delicately framed that it is always good surgery to spare 
all unnecessary suffering. 

Support the body with laudanum and ether drinks, one ounce of each 
to the pint of water, as often as they may be needed. Let the food be 
generous, unless fever should arise, when the directions already given 
must be attended to. 

Punctured wounds require only one kind of treatment, whether a nail 
be driven into the flesh of the foot, or the shaft of a cart be forced into 
the substance of the thigh. Here the knife must be employed; and, 
unless the animal shows evident symptoms of excessive weakness, it is 
better, perhaps, to operate while the parts are partially numbed by the 



WOUNDS. 431 

shock, than to wait until a morbid sensibility is provoked. Always en- 
large the opening ; do this in the foot by cutting away the horn of the 
sole around the small puncture left by the nail. When the soft parts are 
penetrated, probe the wound first ; then, if possible, insert a knife to the 
bottom of the puncture, and, with the edge downward, draw it forth. 
By this means a wound resembling a subverted < will be instituted. It 
will be narrowest toward the extremity, and widest at the mouth. A 
free opening affords a ready egress for all sloughs and pus. It materi- 
ally aids the healing process, and effectually prevents the establishment 
of sinuses ; while the clean incision left by the knife is of small import, 
when taken into consideration with the other consequences of a punQr, 
tured wound. 

Support the animal if necessary, or regulate the food by the symptoms. 

A contused wound, when slight, may be rubbed with the iodide of 
lead ointment, one drachm of the active agent to the ounce of lard; 
when all enlargement will sometimes subside, and the effused blood may 
be absorbed. However, the horse commonly receives injuries of magni- 
tude. In the last case, take a sharp knife and draw it along the entire 
length of the swelling. Make a long gash, only through the integument, 
at every eighth inch, and be careful to carry the knife through the integ- 
ument, or to the lowest portion of the detached skin. Any sac that 
may be left is certain to retain corruption, and may produce fearful after- 
consequences. The attendant measures consist in bathing the contusion 
with a lotion composed of chloride of zinc, one grain, water, one ounce, 
and diminishing the food or supporting the body as nature demands such 
treatment. 

The after-treatment of all injuries consists in keeping any external 
orifices open till all sloughs and pus have disappeared. In surgery, a 
large and depending opening, by means of which the interior may drain, 
is always to be preserved, and the knife, to this end, may be employed 
so often as the healing process threatens to prematurely close the 
wound. 

Formerly it was the practice to bleed after every injury ; this was done 
to prevent fever. However, observation has shown that the vital powers 
are more often weakened than increased by the shock attendant on severe 
accidents. Whenever the contrary happens, it is far better to lower the 
pulse by repeated doses of aconite, than to abstract that which will sub- 
sequently be necessary to repair injury. 

It was also once the custom to fill wounds with tents or lumps of tow, 
and to bandage every injured part. These habits only served to confine 
that which nature was striving to cast out. They consequently did much 
harm, and are now happily discarded. 




432 WOUNDS. 

A piece of loose rag, saturated in the oil or the solution of tar, 
should, during summer, be suspended over the mouth of every wound, to 
keep off the flies. The only tent which the author approves of is when 
an incised wound happens where assistance is far away, and difficult to 
procure. Then, to arrest the hemorrhage, let the horse rug, a man's 
coat, or anything else be violently thrust into the gash, and forcibly held 
there until proper assistance can be obtained. 

Such is the present method of treating wounds ; this to the reader 
may appear very cruel ; but could he have walked through and have 
inhaled the atmosphere of the wards in hospitals appropriated to such 
injuries as they existed in former times, he would thoroughly under- 
stand that apparent want of feeling is, in reality, the 
height of charity. 

To conclude this part, the author lays before his 
readers the following bandage, intended to meet an 
inconvenience hitherto experienced when a horse has 
the walls of the abdomen punctured. The constant 
motion of the part renders ordinary sutures of no avail, 
and for that reason bandages, unless so tight as to 
A BANDAGE DESIGNED FOR chcck circulatlou, arc of little use. The annexed is 
OT THE horse!^ '^^^^^ made like a broad belt, and is buckled round the body. 
The bars are composed of vulcanized India-rubber; 
they will yield to the movements of the abdomen, and yet serve as sutures 
supporting any pendant flap, while at the same time they will allow the 
wound to be dressed without disturbing the bandage. They also offer 
the advantage of permitting the attendant to pull one support aside 
without removing the whole. 

Every part in the horse subjected to much motion when wounded, 
should have an adhesive plaster placed over it, and retained there until 
the suppurative action is confirmed. By this means is excluded the 
atmosphere, which, when this precaution was neglected, has entered the 
wound, penetrated between the muscles, and by distending the body 
increased the suffering, as well as led to the worst of consequences. 

Wounds in veterinary surgery rank among the most formidable cases 
with which the practitioner has to contend. They are not so because 
the flesh of the horse is slower to heal than that of the human being. 
Indeed, the scale in this respect inclines toward the animal ; but they are 
rendered slow to heal and difficult to cure by two causes. The horse is 
always impatient of restraint ; any effort to confine the creature is more 
likely to provoke dangerous resistance than to induce the slightest symp- 
tom of amendment. The quadruped naturally delights in motion. It 
was formed for activity. Even when in its stall the body ^ aever abso- 



WOUNDS. 433 

lutely still; the position is being changed; the legs are frequently 
stamped; the head, eyes, ears, and tail are never quiet. This innate 
quality retards the union of sundered flesh. It favors the gravitation of 
pus between the muscles, and thus generates sinuses. These are the tor- 
ments of veterinary surgery. Could the sinus be anticipated, or in all 
cases eradicated, the principal difficulty would be removed ; but intelli- 
gent as the horse is, it proves impossible to make the animal compre- 
hend the necessity for quietude. Hence any trivial accident may lead to 
injuries of so extensive a character and so malignant a nature as will set 
the best endeavors or the most consummate skill at defiance. 



28 



CHAPTER XY. 



OPERATIONS. 



The veterinary art is by no means rendered more successful by the 
cunning of its stratagems. Many of its objects are accomplished after 
the rudest and the most primitive methods. Not one, perhaps, is more 




"1 



) ^^i^(%W' '^^ 







THE PRESENT MANNER OF CASTING A HORSE FOB OPERATION. 

coarse than the present method of casting or throwing an animal previ- 
ous to an operation. The reader has only to ask himself what condition 
the body must be in when, with the sight blinded, it is suddenly jerked 
to the earth ; and how far it is fitly prepared by so violent a practice to 
be submitted to the knife of an operator ? 

There are few operations in veterinary surgery which a person of 
moderate nerve and average intelligence might not himself perform. 
The author has seen gentlemen with titles, and others holding high rank 
in the army, indulge in the strange pleasure of singeing living flesh with 
the heated iron. But he has never beheld horsemen handling the knife. 
The latter would better become their hands than the first severe and dis- 
figuring instrument, which, however useful it may have been found in 
(434) 



OPERATIONS. 435 

certain cases met with in human surgery, nevertheless would be weil abol- 
ished from veterinary practice, because of its indiscriminate abuse. Firing 
is employed for every and for no reason. Now recourse is had to it because 
the joints are weak. Then it is adopted because a gentleman is fond of 
seeing his horses scored. Next, it is used to gain time, and thus prolong 
the treatment. Generally it is brought forward because the practitioner 
does not know what else to do. Lastly, it is esteemed the crowning 
measure of routine practice. 

The author, however, has never been necessitated to resort to so vio- 
lent an agent. It is a most unseemly ornament in unprofessional hands ; 
in this book, which is intended for the general public, the use of the 
firing-iron is altogether omitted. 

The knife, especially to the animal, is the most humane of remedies. 
It often affords instant or immediate relief. The animal seems to suffer 
more from the restraint imposed than from the wounds inflicted. The 
chief sensation, with all forms of life, resides in the skin; so that the 
integument be quickly and effectually divided, the soft parts underneath 
have but little feeling. The interference with these last rather produces 
faintness or sickness than acute suffering; the knowledge of which fact 
will embolden many a humane person, though the writer trusts it will 
not be credited by all who are of an opposite character, since boldness, 
unrestrained by humanity, only renders the individual a savage without 
the savage's excuse. 

Such operations as embriotomy, castration, and lithotomy are inten- 
tionally omitted, from a conviction that no gentleman would undertake 
them ; and because, in every instance, they had better be intrusted to a 
regular veterinary surgeon. 

Before undertaking any operation, always reflect on what you are 
about to do, and make up your mind how you design to do it. Irreso- 
lution causes more suffering than the most perverted determination can 
inflict. It is always well (however much in practice the operator may 
consider himself) to first perform the intended operation upon the dead 
subject. This is a custom which the writer invariably adopted; and 
frequently it has supplied his memory with a refresher which, in the 
hurry of practice, was found a most timely warning. 

Never use small knives. Such things look pretty. The sight of a 
large blade may appear very ugly ; but it does at one movement that 
work which an instrument of notching smallness would not in twenty 
hacks accomplish. Understand thoroughly that which you are about to 
perform, and always choose the tool likely to get through the business 
quickly. Periosteotomy cases were formerly sold by veterinary instru- 
ment makers which contained a knife of moderate doll's dimension. The 



436 OPEKATIONS. 

writer, to accomplish the purpose which that little knife was specially 
made for, was accustomed to employ a bistoury larger than those in 
ordinary use among gentlemen of his profession. 

Where you anticipate much bleeding, always endeavor, if possible, to 
divide the main artery with the first incision. This is by far the most 
humane, and therefore the safest practice. The vessel, being divided, 
can be taken up, and all further flow of blood thereby checked. But if 
the artery be left to the last, it remains to fill the smaller branches. 
These are of necessity frequently severed. Each, as it is cut, bleeds 
more or less freely ; thus the hemorrhage is far greater, and the opera- 
tion far more difficult, than if the main trunk had been secured at the 
earliest possible period. 

Always tie both ends of an artery ; because, though the main stream 
flows through that portion of the vessel nearest the heart, yet the other 
half, being fed by the smaller trunks, and the current having a tendency 
to regurgitate, a considerable quantity of the vital fluid may flow out of 
the mouth, which, in general opinion, has no medium of supply. 

If, during an operation, you make an accidental incision into a vessel, 
either take it up, (which is the better way,) or cut it short off when there 
is a chance of its retracting and of the bleeding being thus arrested. 
Vessels of large size may, when requisite, be excised and tied; the 
vital current being afterward carried on by the dilatation of the lesser 
ducts. 

To tie an artery it is imperative to secure the end of the vessel ; this, 
if possible, should be accomplished with the forceps. When the mouth 
of the vessel is much retracted, it may be necessary to employ the knife ; 
but that practice should be viewed only as the last resort of the profi- 
cient surgeon. 

The end of the artery being fixed and drawn forth, a piece of strong 
silk, thrice twisted, (after the method represented in 
the inferior circle of the annexed illustration,) is 
passed over the vessel. The silk is then drawn tight, 
and will generally remain fixed. However, sad acci- 
dents have occurred by operators trusting to so 
doubtful a security; for that reason it is always 
advisable to make another twist, (as shown in the 
smaller circle of the illustration,) which will render 
the knot secure. 
THE LOUP BT MEANS OP Evcu a vcssbI of thc second magnitude may be 

WHICH THE ENDS or AR- UTx j. 1 xl ,'t j il • 1 

TERIE3 ARE SECURED. Obliterated, as the carotid artery or the jugular vein, 

without life being necessarily sacrificed. However, 

it is always well to spare these parts, or when either is lost to arrange so 




OPERATIONS. 437 

that the absence of them may entail the least possible inconvenience upon 
the animal. Thus, if the carotid artery be lost, place the food low down, 
and thereby aid the flow of blood to the head. If the jugular vein be 
destroyed, then put the fodder high up, that the current from the head 
may be facilitated. 

Never, on any account, remove any portion of skin which is not 
involved in some fearful injury, or separated from its attachments by the 
action of disease. 

Skin is the part of the body which is never reproduced, and even the 
place whence it is absent always heals slowly. However loose the skin 
may appear, however disproportioned it may seem after some tumor has 
been removed, respect every particle of it. Before the wound can heal, 
inflammation must set in. That process ended, the skin, under its action, 
will have contracted, and in the end there will be only sufficient integu- 
ment to cover the part; whereas, if the slightest amount be excised, to 
such an extent there will for a long time remain a gaping sore. 

Never spare the knife. Think well before you touch that tool ; but, 
having it in hand, assure yourself its edge is sharp, and never do at two 
cuts that which might have been accomplished in one. 

Always slit up a sinus where such a proceeding is possible. When 
the sinus is too long, supposing the pipe to take an internal direction, 
as from the withers to the chest, insert a seton with the guarded seton 
needle, a representation of which is given below. 



TUE GUARDED SETON NEEDLE. 

The blade of this instrument is generally about two feet long. Before 
using it, the cutting head is always retracted by pulling back the nut at 
the extremity, and securing it in its place by means of the screw situated 
on the middle of the handle. The blade then reposes upon a blunt 
companion, and may with impunity be inserted down any sinus or false 
canal. Having reached the bottom of the pipe, and all important vessels 
being passed, the screw is loosened, and the projecting end of the blade 
at the extremity of the handle is struck forcibly, when the sharp point 
is driven forward, and this pierces the flesh. 



THE SETON NEEDLE PROTRUDED, AND SECURED WITHIN THE HANDLE BY MEANS OF A SCREW. 

Behind the cutting head there is a free space. Through that opening 
a long piece of tape is threaded, and the instrument is withdrawn, pull- 



438 OPERATIONS. 

ing the tape into the sinus, in which it remains. A knot is made at either 
end of the tape ; thus a seton is with safety placed in situations where 
the depth to be penetrated would defy ordinary measures, and the vessels 
to be passed would render /uch measures more than doubly hazardous. 

The use of a seton is to act as a drain, or to stimulate au unhealthy 
canal — to provoke a sinus to secrete healthy pus, instead of a thin and 
often a foul discharge — and thus to cause the diseased pipe to heal or 
to become obliterated. 

When operating, always make your first incision through the skin 
rather too large than in the least too small ; remember, the division from 
within outward occasions much less pain than the separation, made after 
the ordinary fashion, from without inward. 

Never spare hair ; the substance is readily reproduced. It can be 
wished to be spared only to conceal the fact of an operation having been 
performed. Always refuse to become a party to dishonesty. Do what 
is necessary for the proper performance of your office. The removal of 
hair, which may otherwise interfere with your sight, is essential : there- 
fore cut it off, regardless of any wish to the contrary. 

Instruct your assistants beforehand how to cast the horse; leave that 
business to them : never meddle yourself. The writer has seen veterinary 
surgeons, in their operating dresses, push and haul with the utmost en- 
ergy. Such silly people have doubtless thought themselves exalted by 
this exhibition of violence. It would have been more to their credit 
had they devoted half the energy to teaching their people beforehand. 
But in what condition must their hands and temper be after having taken 
a lead in a struggle with a horse for mastery ! 

A surgeon should always be cool. His head should direct his hand ; 
his knife should be held lightly ; his eye should be quick, and his mind 
prepared to meet any accident. He should do his office neatly, and, if 
possible, without soiling his person. The ripping cut and the bloody 
hands alone distinguish the ignorant butcher from the scientific operator. 

During every operation enjoin the strictest silence upon the specta- 
tors. The horse is never vicious, but it is always timid. Sounds have 
a powerful effect upon animals which cannot understand speech. Every 
word uttered, even in a whisper, should be of assurance to the sufferer ; 
for the horse is only to be feared in its efforts to escape from some sup- 
posed peril. It becomes mad in its alarm. It then puts forth its strength 
and exerts it without regard to consequences. Man has everything to 
hope from the fortitude and noble forbearance of the creature. It re- 
sponds to kindness with something more than submission ; it answers 
sympathy by the most entire confidence and utter dependence. The life, 
the feeling, the natural powers are all subservient to the great love which 



OPERATIONS. 439 

is embodied in a horse's attachment. There is not among created beings 
one which has so large a sympathy ; the horse must attach itself to 
something ; to love seems essential to its being. The stable in which it 
is captive the patient prisoner learns to regard, as it were, a palace. 
The pace is always more willing when returning to captivity ; freedom 
has no charm ; the field has no allurement to the horse which has lived 
any time in the most crimped, confined, and uncomfortable of stalls. It 
will quit the spring grass to be fastened once more in the place to which 
it has been accustomed and has grown attached. 

Then, however much removed from itself, it must pour the richest of 
its affections on some animal, should man, in pride, refuse to accept the 
offering. Creatures the most opposite have been the horse's favorite. 
How often do we hear of the liking formed between a goat, a dog, a cat, 
and the horse ! Love has a strange freemasonry of its own ; how else 
can we account for the larger creature being able to make its longing 
understood by the smaller life ? There may, however, be between ani- 
mals some substitute for language ; but we can hardly suppose any rec- 
ognized signs exist between birds and the equine species. Yet a famous 
animal-painter had a pony which formed a violent and lasting affection 
for a bantam cock. These two used to march side by side up and down 
the field in which the larger animal was confined ; for so very expansive 
is the horse's love that it will embrace not only its abode, but some life, 
however distant apparently from its own. 

The voice of the person who is accustomed to groom and feed the 
animal, if he has been only ordinarily humane in the performance of his 
office, will at all times reassure the beating heart of a prostrated horse. 
But vast injustice to the animal's better qualities is done by the mode 
of casting it. It is violently jerked off its legs ; by a sudden pull it is 
thrown "with a burster" upon its side. There it struggles. If mastery 
sides with the animal, then let the men be speedy in their flight. The 
quadruped, in its fear, designs no harm to any person. It means only to 
escape from the terrible danger which encompasses it. Still, it is re- 
gardless in its alarm, and may do more injury than the most evil inten- 
tion could accomplish. There is an engraving of the method of casting 
horses commencing this chapter. Let the capable reader imagine the 
effect produced upon the timid quadruped when it is violently flung upon 
the earth with a sound well denominated "a burster." 

The horse is much better made to lie down gently, after the method 
adopted by Mr. Rarey. Half, and far more than half, the terror excited 
by an operation may thus be avoided. The confusion and bustle, con- 
joined with violence, which naturally attend "casting," must make a 
lasting impression upon the retentive mind of the animal, and, we may 



440 OPERATIONS. 

suppose, must aggravate the pain, thus materially endangering the result 
of an operation. The hobbles may be fixed quite as readily when the 
horse is down as when the animal is standing. Nay, they may be fixed 
more readily, as the horse, when down, has lost three-fourths of its 
power. 

Mr. Rarey's method of throwing the most unruly animal is thus 
described by that gentleman : — 

" Everything that we want to teach the horse must be commenced in 
some way to give him an idea of what you want him to do, and then be 
repeated till he learns it perfectly. To make a horse lie down, bend his 
left fore leg and slip a loop over it, so that he cannot get it down. Then 
put a surcingle around his body, and fasten one end of a long strap 
around the other fore leg just above the hoof. Place the other end 
under the surcingle, so as to keep the strap in the right direction ; take 
a short hold of it with your right hand ; stand on the left side of the 
horse, grasp the bit in your left hand, pull steadily on the strap with 
your right ; bear against his shoulder till you cause him to move. As 
soon as he lifts his weight, your pulling will raise the other foot, and he 
will have to come on his knees. Keep the strap tight in your hand, so 
that he cannot straighten his leg if he rises up. Hold him in this posi- 
tion, and turn his head toward you ; bear against his side with your 
shoulder — not hard, but with a steady, equal pressure — and in about ten 
minutes he will lie down. As soon as he lies down he will be completely 
conquered, and you can handle him as you please. Take off the straps, 
and straighten out his legs ; rub him lightly about the face and neck 
with your hand the way the hair lies ; handle all his legs ; and, after he 
has lain ten or twenty minutes, let him get up again. After resting him 
a short time, make him lie down as before. Repeat the operation three 
or four times, which will be sufficient for one lesson. Give him two les- 
sons a day ; and when you have given him four lessons, he will lie down 
by taking hold of one foot. As soon as he is well broken to lie down 
in this way, tap him on the opposite leg with a stick when you take hold 
of his foot, and in a few days he will lie down from the mere motion of 
the stick." 

"What prevents the hobbles being buckled *on? What prevents all 
necessary arrangements being carried out ? What, indeed, but the stub- 
bornness inseparable from ignorance 1 Veterinary surgeons, as a rule, 
are not an educated class. In proportion as their information is limited, 
so is their adherence to established custom likely to be intractable. 

There are, besides the hobbles, two other inventions designed to limit 
the capability of resistance. One is the side line. A soft collar is put 
over the horse's head and a hobble is fastened to the foot it is desired 



OPERATIONS. 



441 




TUE SIDE LINE. 



to have elevated. From the collar is dependant a metal loop, ring, or 

other contrivance. By the side of this a strong rope is attached. The 

cord is then passed through the D 

of the hobble; afterward it is 

brought back and ran through the 

side ring or loop. A man then 

takes hold of the end of the rope, 

and, by gradual traction, causes the 

leg to be advanced. It is neither 

wise nor humane to drag the foot 

off the ground. A horse which will 

stand quiet with both feet resting 

on the earth, is rendered restless 

when one leg is fastened in the air. 

The occasion which makes it imperative to apply the side line is, 
when the ho'cks or hinder parts are examined. Many unbroken horses, 
though quiet in other respects, will not allow these portions of the body 
to be touched. By causing one leg to be advanced, the other is deprived 
of all power as a weapon of offense. The horse would obviously fall, 
if he were to project the only free hind member ; and the timidity of the 
creature indisposes it to incur so vast an indignity. 

The other invention is the double side line. A rope is fixed to a loop 
on either side. The loop or ring is attached to a soft collar. The rope 
is afterward threaded through 
a hobble on each pastern. Both 
legs are then gently pulled for- 
ward, and the animal, having its 
posterior supports drawn from 
under it, comes to the earth. 
The ropes are held tight while 
the horse is turned upon its 
back. The instant it is in that 
position, somebody seats himself 
upon the head, while the body of 
the animal is propped up by 
numerous trusses of straw. 

This last is but an imperfect 
method of casting. In general 
it is rendered still more cruel by the abuse to which it is subject. The 
ropes are commonly pulled with an utter disregard to the living body 
upon which they operate. The hind legs are often drawn to the shoul- 
ders, and frequently additional cords are employed to make the poor 




THE DOUBLE SIDE UNE. 



442 OPERATIONS. 

creatures more distorted and more fixed. Has man any cause to wonder 
at a horse being occasionally what is called "vicious," when the un- 
reasoning creature is thus fearfully operated upon ? Is it not rather a 
proof of the horse's intelligence that it can recognize the cause of its 
suffering, and study ever after to repel its tormentor ? 

Let the horse be thrown down after the admirable method introduced 
by Mr. Rarey. Let it then be hobbled, and never, during the operation, 
hear any sound but soothing accents. Animals do not understand words, 
but they are quick readers of characteristics. The language itself these 
creatures may not be able to literally interpret; but they comprehend 
all which the manner conveys. When kindness is expressed, the mean- 
ing is felt, though the verbiage be lost: it is astonishing how animals 
will enter into the intention of speech 1 How home kind language 
seems to go to the ignorant heart, and how true it is that a gentle word 
is never thrown away 1 It is surprising to observe the affection by which 
the human race is surrounded ; they live and walk among atiimals eager 
for permission to adore them, anxious to love and to serve them ; but it 
is lamentable to see how an evil spirit repels the feeling which pervades 
all nature. 

There is another point upon which the writer presumes to offer ad- 
vice. Veterinary surgeons display ignorance in nothing more than in 
being servile copyists. They do not view their sphere of science as a 
separate and distinct branch. They always will strive to follow the 
example of human practitioners even to particulars. There is no dif- 
ference in the dissecting knives used at the King's College and the Royal 
Veterinary establishment, though bodies of different bulks are studied 
in each school. The operating knives of most veterinary surgeons are 
ridiculously small for such purposes. The consequence is, the animal 
is much longer down than is absolutely necessary. The author has 
known one hour employed in dressing a quittor; whereas six sinuses 
ought to be laid open and dressed in less than five minutes. A vast 
deal of time is thus wasted; although the opposition to Mr. Rarey's 
method of throwing will, doubtless, be the length of time it would 
occupy. However, granting the objection ; which is the surgeon bound 
to consider — the welfare of his patient or his own convenience ? It is 
not every day that the gentleman who enjoys the largest practice has to 
cast a horse. It is, in fact, a somewhat rare and an exceptional occur- 
rence. Could not the most engaged man devote an occasional half hour 
to the benefit of his profession ? 

When operating upon living flesh, always have your knives rather too 
large than in any measure too small. The work is performed quicker; 
besides, the hands are kept at some distance from the wound, and the 



OPERATIONS — TRACHEOTOMY. 



443 



eyes thereby are enabled to direct their movements. The probability 
of mistakes is thus lessened, and no man, with a knife in his hand and 
bleeding flesh under his eyes, has a right to expose himself to the pos- 
sibility of an error, which, of course, is not to be erased or atoned for. 

Should a horse, when under the knife, struggle, do not attempt to 
contend with the animal. Immediately leave hold of your instruments, 
and withdraw your person out of danger. Allow your knife, etc. to 
remain ; it will seldom be displaced, or, if cast out of the wound, can 
be easily reintroduced; whereas, did you endeavor to snatch away or 
to retain your hold, the most lamentable consequences might be the 
result. 

Another caution, and this part of the writer's office is concluded. 
When you operate upon a leg, have that limb uppermost, unless your 
incision is made upon the inner side. Have the foot placed upon a 
pillow or sack stuffed with straw, and a strong webbing put around the 




hoof. The webbing give to a man who is to pull at it. The dragging 
sensation renders the horse inclined to retract the member; therefore 
place yourself in front of the limb, or on the same side as the man who 
holds the webbing. The fore leg, when advanced, cannot be readily 
employed as a weapon of offense, and the hind limb is always, when 
used in defense, projected backward. 



OPERATIONS— TRACHEOTOMY. 

This operation is, perhaps, the most humane recourse of veterinary 
surgery. Neurotomy may save the horse from greater and longer suf- 
fering; but tracheotomy is performed, unlike the former operation, 
upon an animal in an unconscious state. Difficult respiration, either 
from tumor pressing upon the larynx, infiltration upon the lining mem- 
\)rane of the larynx, or choking from various causes, produces imperfect 



444 OPERATIONS — TRACHEOTOMY. 

oxygenation of the blood. The vital current being impure, of course 
the brain which it nurtures is not in a condition of health or activity- 
The consciousness is impaired or altogether destroyed ; and immediate 
relief is experienced after the performance of the operation. The re- 
covery is as rapid as the previous symptoms were alarming. The altered 
aspect of the animal is as though the body were resuscitated. In certain 
cases, where every breath is drawn in pain, the ease afforded by trache- 
otomy is most marked. It makes little difference to Nature, by what 
means the air is inhaled, so that a sufficiency of diluted oxygen come in 
contact with the absorbing membrane of the lungs. This, when the 
larynx is closed or diseased, tracheotomy permits to be accomplished. 
It is equally beneficial, safe, and humane. However ugly its description 
may read, it is in practice to be strongly recommended. 

The general fault with veterinary sugeons is the delay which com- 
monly pushes off the operation to the last moment. In this delay the 
proprietor is, perhaps, equally or even more at fault. Hope leads the 
owner on to the very last, and even then it is with reluctant horror that 
consent is given "to cut the horse's throat." Such is the term by which 
certain practitioners characterize tracheotomy ; and though it is uttered 
merely as a joke, yet it creates an impression which acts against a harm- 
less operation. 

In agricultural districts, the veterinarian is frequently knocked up at 
night by a messenger, who announces "Farmer Hodges's horse be a 
dying." The farmer may live several miles off in the country; and the 
reluctant sleeper hurries on his clothes to obey the implied summons. 

In due time the pair reach farmer Hodge's homestead. It needs no " 
finger to point out the stable. The sound of laborious breathing effect- 
ually notifies it. However, the practitioner, upon entrance into the 
place, is horrified to find himself there with no better company than 
a boy and a rapidly-sinking animal. The circumstances demand other 
assistance. The horse doctor cannot help giving voice to his require- 
ments. The lad hearing this, says hastily he will fetch somebody very 
soon — hangs up the lantern and vanishes into the darkness. 

Minutes pass and no footfall greets the ear. The divisions of the 
hour are struck by the village church, and still no sound of returning 
steps. The animal becomes worse and worse. In its disabled state it 
fears to lie down, as that position impedes the breathing. In its efforts 
to stand, it reels about — now falling to one side and then to the other. 
Yet the departed messenger does not return. The veterinarian finds 
the limits of delay are passed: ten minutes more and the quadruped 
will be down. He takes out his lancet. One foot from the breast- 
bone, and as near the center of the neck as the rocking motion of the 



OPERATIONS — TRACHEOTOMY. 



445 



horse or the flickering light of the lantern will allow him to aim, he 
plunges the blade deeply into the flesh, if possible at one cut dividing 
the cartilages of the trachea. He has little control over the incision. 
Frequently a gash results from the tottering of the animal. Mostly he 
divides more than he would have done had daylight and assistance been 
afforded him. 

The incision being made, the fingers are thrust into the wound to 
keep the division open. At first this may be difiicult; but as time 




TRACHEOTOMY, AS PERFORMED UNDER DIFFICULTIES — A COMMON OCCURRENCE. 

proceeds, the standing of the horse becomes firmer and the breathing 
less noisy. The veterinarian is, however, impatient at the delay and 
his enforced position. He is just beginning to despair, when the mes- 
senger returns, accompanied by a sleepy companion. Both are sur- 
prised at the condition of the horse, and, not observing the wound, 
imagine the animal has been cured by magic. However, to the demands 
of the equine medical attendant, nothing like a tracheotomy tube is to 
be invented. At last the spout of the tea kettle is thought of; and the 
good dame awakens in the morning to find her kettle demolished and 
its spout thrust into the "plaguy horse's throat." 

It is the curse of veterinary surgery, that nobody appears to under- 
stand when an operation is required. The practitioner, therefore, is 
seldom prepared for its performance. The circumstances allow him 
little time to think, and none to return or to fetch the necessary instru- 
ments. 

However, when he has proper time and choice, he should always 
make a free incision through the skin and panniculus carnosus. Make 
this opening about one-third up the neck, measuring from the chest. It 



446 



OPERATIONS — TRACHEOTOMY. 



is more general to open the windpipe at a similar distance from the jaw, 
and, assuredly, the superior incision has this advantage, that there is 
less to cut through. But where no important nerves or vessels are en- 
dangered, surgery cares little about the depth of a wound, the chief 
attention being given to the probable after-consequences. 

The superior portion of the neck is especially the seat of motion ; it 
varies with every turn and movement of the head. Hence the end of 
the tube is apt to be brought into constant contact with the lining mem- 
brane of the trachea, and horses have been slaughtered with huge 
tracheal abscesses, to all appearance produced solely by wearing the 
tracheotomy tube. 

To avoid this danger the author chooses for incision a spot nearer to 
the chest, where the motion is less constant and not so varied. Even 
at this last place all danger is not entirely surmounted, in consequence 
of which a horse, while wearing a tracheotomy tube, should never be 
permitted to feed from the ground. 





DIA.6R&M, SHOWINQ THE STRnCTURES TO BE 
INTERFERED WITH DURING THE PERFORM- 
ANCE OP TRACHEOTOMY. 



THE MANNER IN WHICH THE CARTILAGES 
OF THE TRACHEA ARE TO BE EXCISED. 



1. 1. The Bterno-maxillares muscles — a pair — ^have to be separated, being joined by fine cellular tissue. 

2. The sterno-thyro-hyoidei muscles, lying under the first pair, also have to be divided, being similarly 
united. 

3. The trachea, which is fully exposed when the above muscles are disunited. 



At the commencement, when the operator has leisure, he generally 
does not cut too deep. The first incision fairly divides the skin and 
panniculus carnosus quite in the middle of the neck, and is rather longer 
than a by-stander would deem to be absolutely necessary. The elasticity 
of the skin will somewhat shorten the opening, while the torture of 



OPERATIONS — TRACHEOTOMY. 44^ 

repeated enlargements will be avoided, and the more important struc- 
tures beneath the skin will be fairly brought into view. 

In the center of your division will appear two long muscles, joined 
together by a fine cellular union; that union you are to separate; it 
consists only of cellular tissue, and will necessitate more care than ex- 
ertion. Underneath the divided muscles will be found two others, 
smaller and paler, but also joined together by means of fine cellular 
tissue. These are also to be sundered, and then the trachea lies 
exposed. There is neither nerve, nor artery, nor vein to avoid, nor to 
take up in the performance of tracheotomy. All consists in making 
your primary incision large enough, and, subsequently, in not attempt- 
ing more than the division of two pairs of muscles. 

The commencement of the incision should be made at the spot already 
indicated. After the skin is cut through and the muscles are divided, 
two assistants should be obtained to hold them back, while a circular 
piece is excised from the cartilages of the exposed trachea. 

The trachea is formed of numerous cartilaginous rings each half an 
inch wide, but so united by elastic tissue that the whole forms one con- 
tinuous tube reaching from the head to the chest of a horse. If possi- 
ble, only two of these rings are to be interfered with ; that is, a half 
circle should be cut out of each, which, with the elastic connecting 
medium, will make an opening of one inch in diameter. Both the rings, 
however, should be perfectly divided ; but a half circle should be excised 
from one, leaving a portion of cartilage to keep the remainder in its 
place. This matter, probably, may be made more clear by the engraving 
on the opposite page. 

After the first half circle is made, or when a portion is cut off the first 
cartilage, that piece should be bent outward. The elastic connecting 
substance will readily permit this to be done, and the current of fresh 
air admitted will considerably refresh the animal. The cartilage being 
bent outward, it should be leisurely transfixed by means of a sharp 
needle armed with strong twine. The string may be fastened to the 
button-hole of the operator's waistcoat, and afterward the circle be 
leisurely completed. 

The twine is necessary because the spasmodic breathing has drawn the 
excised portion of cartilage upon the lungs, and thereby done as much 
mischief as the operator designed to do good. By bending the half 
circle outward, some relief is afforded to the breathing, and the charac- 
ter of the respiration partially benefited. The process is, however, ren- 
dered more safe by the employment of the loop ; but care should be 
taken, when subsequently using the knife, not to cut the string. There- 
fore, before the circle is completed, the cartilage should be bent back- 



448 



OPERATIONS — TRACHEOTOMY. 



ward, as shown in the previous engraving, then laid hold of, and, when 
firmly grasped, the excision ought to be perfected. 

A tube has to be worn afterward; this is put into the opening, and 
fastened in by means of a strap or tape passed round the neck. There are 
many tubes sold by the instrument makers for this purpose ; the majority, 
however, are far too large. 'None should be beyond one inch in diame- 
ter. The horse only requires to inhale part of the air through the can- 
ula, the remainder coming, as before, through the larynx. A free space 
of one inch is, therefore, plenty to admit the deficient oxygen ; for no 
animal could live through an operation, were air, previous to its com- 
mencement or during its continuance, altogether excluded. 

The best instrument for hasty and temporary tracheotomy is the 
invention of Mr. T. W. Gowing, of Camden Town. To insert this can- 
ula no cartilage need be excised ; a puncture is made with a knife 




MR. T. W. GOWING'S TRACHEOTOMY TUBE. 

A. The camila, with a shifting shield, armed with the pointed trocar. 

B. The trocar withdrawn from the camila. showing its peculiar construction. 

C. The canula titled into the horse's trachea, showing how the movable shield may be adapted, by 

means of a screw, to the size of the horse or the swollen condition of the parts. 



through the connecting medium of the tracheal rings, and through this 
puncture the tube is driven. It is of all use for temporary or immediate 
service, but obviously would not do for a continuance. 

The objection to tracheotomy, when designed to last for any period, is 
that the canula, by irritating the lining membrane of the larynx, is apt 
to provoke abscess, which impedes the breathing to a degree that destroys 
the life. The author has seen some fearful instances of this effect ; but 
of all tubes, that invented by the French seems to be least open to this 
objection. 



OPERATIONS— PERIOSTEOTOMY. 



449 



OPERATIONS— PERIOSTEOTOMY. 

This operation was first applied to the horse by the late Professor 
Sewell. It is intended to relieve the lameness consequent upon exostosis 




A PAIR OF KOWELINO SCISSORS, FOR 
MAKIKO SMALL INCISIONS THBOUGH 
SHE HOBSE'8 skin. 



A SETON NEEDLE ARMED WITH A TAPE, A, AND FIXED INTO 
A HOLLOW HANDLE BT XEANS OF A. SCBEW, B. 



situated on the shin-bone. A pair of roweling scissors are first employed 
to snip the skin above and below the tumor. Then a blunt seton needle. 




A BLUNT SETON NEEDLE. 



A lOMOa BEING CUT WITH A PEOBE-POINTED KNIFE. 



being fixed into a hollow handle by means of a screw, and armed with a 
tape knotted at one end, is to be used. The needle is violently driven 
through, and breaks down the cellular tissue which attaches the skin to 
the tumor. The point is forced to enter at one snip and come out at 
the other, after which the needle is withdrawn by the first opening. A 
probe-pointed knife is then introduced into the space thus made ; the tu- 
mor is sliced into as many pieces as may please the operator or the nature 
of the growth will admit of The knife is afterward retracted, and the 
needle, released from the handle, is passed through the openings, or in 
at one snip and out at the other. The knot at the end of the tape pre- 
vents that being drawn after the needle. The unknotted end is next 
withdrawn from the needle and tied into a large knot — the whole form- 
ing a seton. The operation is occasionally varied by smearing the tape 
with terebinthinate of cantharides, and sometimes by blistering over 

29 



450 



OPERATIONS — PERIOSTEOTOMY. 




A horse's LEO WITH 
TWO SNIPS UPON IT, 
C C, OUT OP WHICH 
BANG THE TWO 
KNOTTED ENDS OF 
A BETON, J> J). 



tumor, seton and all. This last practice may add to the severity of the 
operation, but it seems calculated to do little good. Breaking down 
the attachment of the skin and slicing the tumor appear 
designed to deprive the growth of blood, while a blister 
seems calculated to draw to the part an excess of that 
which the operation was intended to dispel. 

Periosteotomy is not very highly esteemed by the 
vast majority of practitioners. It is, however, some- 
times very successful. A horse is thrown, being dead 
lame ; the animal gets up from the hands of the surgeon 
and trots sound. It is difficult, however, to predicate 
the quadruped on which it will thus act. Certainly the 
operation is best adapted to young horses ; but even to 
all of these it will not prove beneficial. It is therefore 
looked upon as a surgical experiment, quite as apt to 
disappoint as to please. The seton, moreover, is dis- 
posed to cause the edges of the holes through which it 
passes to indurate. A blemish which it takes some 
months to eradicate is the consequence ; and this, added to the expense 
attendant upon treatment, is not apt to prove pleasing to horse proprie- 
tors, especially when the operation altogether fails. 

A modification of periosteotomy might perhaps be tried. Omit the 
seton altogether ; make an inferior snip with the scissors ; introduce a 
sharp-pointed needle, and cat a channel. Then insert a probe-pointed 
bistoury, and incise the tumor. If periosteotomy were to prove suc- 
cessful, it probably would be so in this shape. The author has seen small 
benefit result from the after-use of the seton, and by operating in the 
manner proposed all the subsequent blemish would be avoided. The 
cut would soon heal and leave no scar behind : thus the grand objec- 
tion to the performance of periosteotomy, as it now stands, would be 
removed. 

The motive for the above proposal is to spare the suffering of the 
animal. If the hair is cut short previously, and pressure made above 
the snip of the scissors, the wound need occasion little pain. A sharp 
point cutting its way through the cellular tissue would not cause one 
tithe of the agony which follows the use of a blunt instrument necessa- 
rily tearing, stretching, and breaking a passage through a living body. 
Cartilage or bone in a state of health has small sensibility. The em- 
ployment of the knife would therefore provoke no struggle, while all 
the after-torture of a seton applied directly to the surface of a wound 
would be avoided. 

Perhaps it would be best to bind a broad tape, with a cork under it 



OPERATIONS— NEUROTOMY. 451 

and upon the vessels, round the leg before the operation, thereby press- 
ing on the nerve and cutting off the supply of blood. This would prob- 
ably deprive the leg of all sensation. The most severe part of this 
method of periosteotomy would be the after-consequences. The incised 
tumor would inflame ; the vacant channel would have to unite. The 
one would occasion agony, the other be probably attended with violent 
itching. The limb, therefore, should be bandaged, even though a wound 
upon the horse's body does not do so well when covered up. The band- 
age, however, will prevent the animal from injuring the sore leg with the 
opposite shoe, which a horse may be provoked to attempt by that irrita- 
tion which attends the healing process. 

OPERATIONS— NEUROTOMY. 

Neurotomy is the division of the nerve which supplies the hoof of the 
fore leg with sensation. The foot of the horse being moved through 
tendons by muscles from above, and having in itself no muscular power, 
obviously has no occasion for a motor nerve. Consequently the nerve 
running to the foot is wholly sentient. It is the means of communica- 
tion through which pain or pleasure is transmitted from the hoof to the 
brain. 

To take away a portion of this nerve is evidently to separate the 
medium of such communication. Feeling can no more travel along a 
divided nerve than electricity can along a broken wire. The knowledge 
of this fact has led to a portion of the nerve being excised ; and the 
doing of this has been named neurotomy. 

A nerve is a very compound structure. It is composed of numerous 
fine filaments or small threads bound together by a cellular sheath called 
neurilema. Healthy nerve feels firm, and has a brilliant white appear- 
ance ; unhealthy nerve is of a yellowish tint, and is of a less solid texture. 

The operation of neurotomy is certain relief, but that relief is of un- 
certain duration. The divided nerve, after a time, reunites. The junction 
thus formed carries on all the functions of the perfect structure ; but a 
bulb is left behind at the place of union. This bulb is to be easily felt 
by pressing upon the seat of neurotomy externally with the points of 
the fingers ; and the bulb being felt leads to a knowledge that the horse 
has been subjected to the operation. Neurotomy, therefore, can never 
be concealed, if pains are bestowed upon its detection. The operation, 
however, is not successful in every case. 

In some animals, the wound has just closed when junction seems to 
be formed between the divided ends of the nerve. The lameness then 
returns as acutely as ever. 



452 OPERATIONS — irHUROTOMY. 

In others, the horse will proceed to work, and continue sound ever 
after — the restored power to use the foot having, in the last case, seem- 
ingly destroyed the affection. 

Some animals are subjected to operation so late that disease has had 
time to weaken the pedal structures. The consequence is that no sooner 
does the absence of feeling tempt the horse to throw his entire weight 
upon the foot than the navicular bone fractures or the perforaus tendon 
ruptures. 

Certain horses, from a tingling sensation in the neurotomized foot — 
similar to that felt by men in the imaginary fingers of an arm which has 
been amputated — will stamp violently till they injure it and provoke 
suppuration ; while other feet are so irritable that the head is bent down- 
ward and large pieces from the hoof literally bitten off. To account for 
this last circumstance the reader must remember that, though the foot 
seems to itch, it in reality has no sensation to preserve it from the teeth 
of the provoked animal. 

Cases occasionally happen of horses having picked up nails, or having 
incurred wounds in the foot, which, being deprived of feeling, the animal 
wanted the power to recognize. No lameness was exhibited, and the 
injury was necessarily unattended to. The foot has been left alone till 
the hurt has induced mortification. 

Weak feet have not been able to endure the consequences of opera- 
tion. They have sustained no external injury, but the heaviness of tread 
attendant on a loss of sensation has so battered the senseless member 
that suppuration has been induced. The hoof has therefore been cast 
off and the horse been destroyed, although it was discovered in the stable 
standing with the utmost composure upon the bleeding and exposed 
flesh. 

These are a few of the disagreeables attending a most humane and 
successful operation. The first requisite for the performance of neurot- 
omy is a sound knowledge of anatomy. A familiar acquaintance with 
the course of the nerve is essential. It descends in two main branches 
from the knee, one on either side of the leg. It travels in company with 
and behind the artery and vein on the inner side of the fore limb. On 
the outer side it is accompanied by no vessel. About the center of the 
leg, however, the two nerves are united by a branch which travels over 
the perforans tendon, connecting the sentient fibers of either side. It is 
therefore essential, in the performance of neurotomy, to make the pri- 
mary incision rather low down, especially if it is meant that the high 
operation should be accomplished, or that all sensation should be de- 
stroyed on one side by a single division. 

At the pastern the nerve divides ; the posterior branch runs direct to 



OPERATIONS — NEUROTOMY. 



453 



the frog. The anterior branch travels in front of the artery for some 
distance, when it takes a more forward course, dividing into several 
separate branches. 

The generality of operators remove about an inch of the main trunk 
before the nerve divides, or above the pastern ; and the result certainly 
confirms the soundness of such a practice. 

The nerve of the frog is, however, frequently ex- 
cised. The objection to this is the junction of a 
filament of the anterior branch with the nerve below 
the excision. That union should deprive the opera- 
tion of all effect ; but, notwithstanding, the division 
is sometimes beneficial. The operation is, however, 
never certain ; and to that circumstance the propri- 
etor must make up his mind when he sanctions its 
performance. 

Always examine minutely any horse submitted to 
you for neurotomy. Do this to discover if the op- 
eration has been previously performed — the object 
being that you may thereby be prepared for some 
trouble in mastering the retentive consciousness of 
the anifflW ; likewise, that by such inquiries you 
may decide upon the benefit likely to result from 
the operation ; also, that you may be warned of a 
bloody and tedious job. The leg which has previously been subjected 
to neurotomy becomes doubly vascular. We know of no reason to 
account for this phenomenon, excepting it may denote the cost at which 
nature repairs her higher order of structures. 




THE COURSE OF THE 
NERVE EXPOSED. 

a. Denotes the nerve 
of the frog. 





A HORIZONTAL INCISION, WITH THE HAIB 
CLIPPED ABOVE IBE OPENING. 



A PERPENDICnLAE INCISION, WITH THE HAIR CUT OFF 
ABOVE AND ON THE SIDES OF THE WOUND. 



Before you consent to operate upon any animal, examine the feet. If 
the hoof is weak or even weakly, refuse at once. If the hoof be strong 
and thick, the wall upright, and the frog small, you may consent, with 
the best hopes of success. Have such a horse put into the stable, and 



454 



OPERATIONS — NEUROTOMY. 




the diseased foot or feet kept wet for a week prior to the operation. 
This frequently has the effect of constringing the arteries, greatly de- 
priving the part of blood. That result renders the use of the knife more 
cleanly and more easy. Two days prior to the important one have the 
hair cut short over the place or places where you design to make your 
incisions. By so doing, all chance of hair getting into and irritating 
the wound will be effectually destroyed. This may happen, and, should 
the hair be left on, much delay will be occasioned, while the animal's 
sufferings must be augmented if the hair be clipped after the horse is 
down for operation. 

Never operate upon a horse with the hair uncut — leave that to parties 
who league with the lowest class of horse-cheats. Cut off hair two 

days beforehand. Make an incision 
through the skin about three-quarters 
to one inch long. Have a needle and 
thread ready — a strong surgeon's needle 
and a stout twine. Pierce the divided 
skin from the inside to the outside, leav- 
ing a moderate piece of twine hang- 
ing out of the wound. Carry the twine 
under the leg, and pierce the in^gument 
on the other margin of the wound — also 
from the interior to the exterior. Then bring the piece of twine left 
hanging out of the first puncture and the needle together, at the back 
of the leg. Slightly tighten the twine ; fasten these two ends in a bow, 
and the effect will be to keep the sides of the incision asunder. 

If you design to perform the high operation, choose a spot a little 
above the pastern, and incise the skin at one cut, if possible. The high 
operation is most approved of for general purposes, and, as before re- 
marked, destroys sensation in the entire hoof. Some proprietors think 
it well to leave a little feeling in the forward portion of the foot, which 
is free from disease. This is done to escape those results that have 
already been enumerated as the effects of total insensibility. The high 
operation is, therefore, performed only on one side, and the posterior or 
low division on the other. There are two spots at which the low oper- 
ation may be accomplished. The author has given the reader a repre- 
sentation of the anatomy of the leg. He presents a view on page 455, 
of the places where the incisions can be made. 
"Either of the lower operations, regarded by itself, is very uncertain 
in its effect; and, if taken both together, they present no advantage 
over the superior opening. 

These remarks may be better comprehended, by comparing this 



THE MODE OF FASTENINO BACK THE BIDE 
OF A PERPENDICULAR WOCND. 



OPERATIONS— NEUROTOMY. 455 

engraving with the course of the nerve shown in the previous illus- 
tration. 

When the skin is divided — supposing the horse is neurotomized for 
the first time — nothing is visible but white-looking cellular tissue. This 
must be carefully dissected away with a pair of forceps and a scalpel. 
Dissect on until the nerve and artery are exposed plainly to view. 
Then take a crooked needle and thread. Pierce the nerve — this you 
may do fearlessly. The author has not known it to produce pain. 




The superior opening represents the place where one side of the foot may be deprived of sensation by 
a single division. 

The two middle incisions denote the part where either the fore or after portion of the foot may, per- 
haps, be rendered void of sensation. 

The two inferior cuts suggest the situations where, probably, the parts of the foot toward which the 
incisions point may be made insensible. 

The fibers composing the nerve are so fine that the needle's point is 
blunt when compared with them. It, therefore, glides through them 
without pricking any of the filaments. 

If the horse has been operated upon before, you must expect a tedious 
and sanguinary business. It is then of all importance to obtain a very 
attentive and equally nimble man to take the sponge. Blood will fol- 
low every movement of the knife. However, with each cut you must 
retract the hand, and the man who has care of the sponge must quickly, 
surely, and forcibly cleanse the wound. When the sponge is withdrawn, 
for an instant, and for an instant only, is there a clear view of the part. 
The operator must be ready to make the most of that glimpse ; for, the 
next moment, blood flows over the lips of the orifice and all is concealed 
from view. Thus we proceed, rather snipping than cutting, taking 
away particles instead of flakes of cellular tissue, till the nerve is ex- 
posed. Then it is fixed with the needle as before directed. 

The nerve being caught, withdraw the needle, leaving the thread 



456 



OPERATIONS— NEUROTOMY. 




THE LOOP EAISINO THE NERVE WHILE THE KNIFE LOOSENS 
ITS INFERIOR ATTACHMENTS. 



behind. Tie both ends of the thread together, and insert the first finger 
of your left hand into the loop thus formed. By gentle traction raise 

the nerve a little, and with the 
knife release its inferior attach- 
ments. Then let the man who 
held the sponge make pressure 
with all his force upon the 
artery and nerve above the in- 
cision. After this has been 
done about a minute, and by 
the stoppage of the circulation 
you may conclude the sensation 
to be in some degree numbed, 
insert the blade of the knife 
under that portion of the nerve which is nearest the body, and cut 
boldly upward. 

A spasm mostly follows the division; but it is of short duration. 
Afterward dissect about one inch of the nerve from its attachments, 
and remove this inch from the main trunk. No sign of feeling will 
follow the excision when made lower down. All communication with 
the brain has been cut off by the previous division, and the sensorium 
no longer takes notice of any violence offered to that part of the body 
which has been isolated. 

Next, having sponged the part, close the wound by means of a pin 
forced through the lips of the orifice. Then 
twist a little tow round it in the form of a 
figure of 8. That being finished, so much of 
the point as protrudes is to be removed with a 
pair of wire nippers ; a bandage is then put on ; 
and, if both sides of the limb are to be neu- 
rotomized, the horse is turned over. All being 
accomplished, return the horse to the stable, 
but watch the pin which fastens the wound. If 
THE BEST WAT TO CLOSE THE WOUND thc Incislon coutiuues dry, the pin may not be 

CONSEQUENT UPON NEUROTOMY. ,.■■,.•, -i . n i , • <• j i 

removed till six days have expired; but it the 
slightest appearance of pus be suspected, immediately withdraw the pin, 
and remove the tow, treating the part with solution of chloride of zinc, 
as though it were a common wound. 

There are various knives invented for the performance of neurotomy. 
That the writer most approves of was the invention of Mr. Woodger, 
the admirably practical veterinary surgeon of Bishops Mews, Padding- 
ton. The author has used this instrument himself, and seen it guided 




OPERATIONS — DIVISION OF THE TENDONS. 



457 



by other hands. In every case it has expedited the operation and 
thereby shortened the period of the animal's suffering. 

The after-treatment of neurotomy consists in letting well alone, if all 
goes on rightly. Should pus make its appearance, bathe the wounds, 
thrice daily, with the solution of chloride of zinc, one grain to the ounce 
of water. Remove the bandages from the legs after the horse has 




MR. ■WOODGER'S neurotomy KNIFE. 

To use this instrument. — After the nerve is raised, insert the crooked point, with the edge toward the 
body of the horse ; then drive the knife forward. By this simple means the cutting portion of the blade 
is brought violently in contact with the nerve, which is excised at the proper point, and about an inch is 
left hanging out below the incision. 



entered the stable. The incisions heal more readily when exposed to 
the stimulating effects of the air. Place a cradle round the horse's neck, 
and feed liberally. Avoid all pur- 
gative medicine ; you now want an 
injury repaired, and do not desire to 
reduce the vital energy. 

When the wounds have healed, the 
horse may be gradually taken once 
more to work, but it should not be 
fully used. Excessive and too early 
labor is the cause of the many serious 
objections taken to a merciful oper- 
ation. The horse for some period 
does not feel his foot. He does not 
flex the pastern as the hoof nears the 

ground. The foot is placed flat upon the earth, and with a kind of sen- 
sible jar, as though the animal had made "a false step." This pecu- 
liarity unfits the quadruped to trot upon stones, or hard roads, until it 
has learned " to handle its feet," or to accommodate the tread to the 
new condition of the hoof. 




THE AWKWARD TREAD OP A HORSE WHEN 
NEWLY NEDROIOMIZED. 



OPERATIONS— DIVISION OF THE TENDONS. 

Many horses when standing knuckle over to such an extent as threatens 
to throw them upon their knees. Others can only put the toe of the 
hind leg to the ground. The natural use of the limb is equally injured 
in each case : the fore legs of the horse support the body and the burden ; 
the hind legs propel the carcass and the load. Both are deformed by 



458 OPERATIONS— DIVISION OF THE TENDONS. 

contraction of the perforans tendon ; and both deformities are generally 
produced by excessive labor, inducing strain, though a few cases have 
come to the author's knowledge of animals being born thus afflicted. 
When we contemplate the huge frame of the horse, it seems more than 
fitted for all man's ordinary purposes. But country carriers have vans 
proportioned only to the extent of their custom ; their carts are enlarged 
as their trade increases ; but very seldom is the power which draws the 
load augmented in the same proportion. The horse, so agile and so 
beautiful, as long as it can move the cart is esteemed to be not over- 
weighted. It labors up hill, and then the carrier congratulates himself 
that the worst of the work is over ; it may be for him, but it is not for 
his horse. All the stress in going down hill lies upon the back sinews ; 
the animal has to put forth all its strength to check the downward 
impetus of the load. It is the same with other horses in the shafts of 
other vehicles. Three or four animals — according to the usual English 
fashion — may be attached to a load ; but the weight which three strengths 
can draw upon level ground, when descending an inequality, then, never 
bears equally upon the leaders. 

Clap of the back sinews is a common accident with all horses. The 
equine delight is the pleasure of the master. So entirely is the horse 
the slave of man, that it, by instinct, puts forth its utmost strength to 
attain anything in which its owner takes enjoyment. It does so regard- 
less of its own probable sufferings. In racing, in hunting, in all kinds 
of pastime the horse will strain every nerve and even burst its strong 
vessels laboring to gratify an ungrateful proprietor. Who does not 
remember the old coaching days ? The animals then appeared happy in 
their vocation. A well-appointed coach, trotting by the White Horse 
Cellar, was a sight to contemplate. However, follow the vehicle to the 
termination of the first stage. See the poor panting carcasses un- 
harnessed — the perspiration lathering their sides, their veins swelling, 
their tails quivering, their nostrils jerking, and their limbs stiffened. 
Who then could regret that railroads were invented to indulge man's 
desire for speed ? See, as the coach leaves the metropolis behind it, the 
cattle deteriorate. At last, behold life with swollen legs, stifi" joints, and 
diseased feet made to propel the loaded vehicle. Who, properly regard- 
ing such a spectacle, and having a heart to feel, does not rejoice that a 
method of traveling has at length been invented which renders the 
employment of the lash to overcome the agonies of breathing flesh no 
longer imperative ? 

These fast abuses induced contraction of the perforans tendon in the 
front legs. There is, however, this difference between contraction 
in the anterior and posterior extremities — one hind leg only may be 



OPERATIONS — DIVISION OF THE TENDONS. 



459 



affected ; but the author remembers no instance of one fore leg being 
alone involved. 

When a tendon is sprained, it is usual to apply stimulating or fiery- 
mixtures to that part, winding up the treatment with blisters and the 
heated iron. Notwithstanding such measures are very seldom success- 
ful, man se^s incapable of learning anything where another has to 
bear the torture, and he will often endure a great deal of agony him- 
self before an obvious idea can be awakened. 

Such slowness is, however, very lamentable in the case of the horse. 
Division of the tendons was borrowed from the human surgeon by the 
veterinary practitioner. The operation, however, till very lately, re- 
mained as it was originally adopted. Human surgery had advanced ; 
but veterinary practice stood motionless. At length, Mr. Varnell came 
from America, and instructed veterinarians in an improved mode of 
operating, which at this date should be universally practiced. 





THE KNIFE EMPLOYED BY MB. VARNELL, 
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR AT THE ROYAL 
VETERINARY COLLEGE. 



THE POSITION OF THE LEG WHEW THB 
KNIFE 13 INSERTED. 



A stout knife with a probed point, a curved blade, and a smooth, 
rounded back, is first obtained. Before the blade is inserted, the skin is 
divided, at the point selected for the operation, by the slight puncture 
of a lancet. 

The leg is then flexed ; the tendons are, by the position of the limb, 
rendered flaccid. The knife is next inserted sideways, behind the nerve 
and artery, under the tendons. This last act is not, however, in prac- 
tice, very easy or very safe. 



460 



OPERATIONS — DIVISION OF THE TENDONS. 



The edge of the knife is now toward the shoulder or haunch, and the 

vessels lie upon that side of the blade which is nearest to the bone. The 

operator now, by a simple motion of the hand, turns the cutting edge 

of the knife toward the posterior part of the limb. A man at the same 

moment takes hold of the leg and forces it 

straight; the perforans tendon is thus dragged 

against the knife, while the suspensory ligament 

and vessels are safe at the back of the blade. 

If the tendon be not divided without any effort 

on the part of the operator, he makes a sawing 

motion as he withdraws the knife. A slight 

sensation or a feeble sound often testifies the 

separation of the structure. 

Often, if the contraction be not chronic, the 
strength of the extensor pedis muscle, when 
released from its opponent's force, is sufficient 
to straighten the fetlock. When the disease, 
however, has existed for any time, it requires 
some violence to break down the false attach- 
ments which have been formed. For this purpose the knee of a strong 
man is placed in front of the fetlock-joint, and the horse's foot is, by 
pulling hard, drawn forward. 

The wound is then closed with a pin and twisted thread, as in neu- 
rotomy, and the auimal, till junction is perfected, should be kept in the 
stable, as the shoe to be worn afterward is not favorable to progression. 
One week after the operation, a shoe, with a projecting piece at the toe 
about one inch and a half long, is to be put on the foot of the diseased 
limb. Five weeks after this, the shoe is to be replaced by one having 
the projecting point twice as long ; and this last is to be worn till union 




THE TENDON DIVIDED. 





THE SHOE TO BE WOEN ONE WEEK 
AFTER DIVISION OF THE TENDON 
HAS BEEN ACCOMPUSHED. 



THE SHOE TO BE PUT ON SIX WEEKS AFTER 
DIVISION OP THE TENDON, AND TO BE WORN 
UNTIL UNION IS PERFECTED. 



is supposed to be perfected — till the expiration of three months at 
least. 

The horse, after having the tendon divided, is said to be as strong as 



OPERATIONS— DIVISION OF THE TENDONS. 



461 



ever. The author would, however, object to such an animal being put 
into the shafts with even a light load behind it, or to its being again 
used for saddle purposes. The animal, though forbidden these uses, 
has still a large field of service open to it. 

This operation is alike effectual and humane. That the last assertion 
may not appear based upon a single opinion, the author presents the 
reader with an engraving taken from a park near Lewes. That animal 
seemed to have all four limbs contracted, or the hind limbs were flexed 
and much advanced, to take the weight off the fore members. A foal 
ran by the side of the creature thus crippled ; though it would be sup- 
posed no sane person would select such a dam to breed from. 




IsTow had this mare been operated upon, slight pain would have been 
inflicted. Tendon, unless in a state of inflammation, has no sensation. 
Relief would have been afforded for the remainder of the life, and 
though, from her make and shape, the animal might never have held a 
high station among her breed, still, with straight legs she must have 
been worth as much for work as with bent limbs she could be valuable 
for stock purposes. 



4G2 OPERATIONS — QUITTOR. 



LAYING OPEN THE SINUSES OF A QUITTOR. 

Give no opening medicine to any horse previous to this operation. 
Every member of the equine race is more likely to be too low from 
excess of work, than in any degree inflammatory from over-indulgence. 
Therefore, discard the general practice of preparing the horse with a 
dose of compound aloes. If the bowels are costive, get them open. 
But before employing the drastic drug, try what bran mashes and green- 
meat can effect. The entire strength will be needed to repair the injuries 
effected with the knife. 

Give tonics and high feeding where the symptoms declare the body to 
be enervated. It is at all times better to operate upon a system having 
a superabundance of vital energy than upon one in which the powers 
are at all tardy. Collapse is the greatest enemy the surgeon has. to 
dread. It is true, animals do not, like men, often "shut up" or die 
while under the operator ; but frequently the most skillful surgery is 
defeated by the horse, after it has been released from the hobbles, never 
thriving. There may be no disease to be detected ; but the body seems 
to want the strength requisite for recovery. To make this apparent to 
the reader — two gentlemen shall each perform neurotomy. One shall 
bungle, yet his patient shall do well. The wounds shall heal by the first 
intention, and the horse in a fortnight be again delighting its owner. 
The other shall display the perfection of scientific attainment; yet the 
horse shall never thrive. The wounds shall ulcerate, and the animal 
either gnaw the foot or cast the hoof. How can such differences be 
accounted for but by believing the horse is subject to a peculiar species 
of chronic collapse ? 

Rasp the quarter of the horse's foot which has quitter, until the soft, 
light-colored horn of the laminae is exposed. Then let the hair be cut 
off around the opening on the coronet, and the foot be carefully cleansed. 
Afterward throw the horse. Release the quittored leg from the hob- 
bles, and with a steel director probe each sinus. So soon as the instru- 
nent is well in, take a sharp-pointed knife and run it carefully down the 
groove of the director. Then ascertain, with a grooved probe, whether 
the sinus decreased in diameter, or whether the whole extent of the pipe 
be laid open. If the smallest portion remains, to which the knife has 
not reached, use the groove of the probe as a director, and slit it up. 
Do this to as many sinuses as may exist. 

Next place in each sinus a small piece of tow. These pieces of tow 
should be already divided into short and thin skeins. They should be 



OPERATIONS — QUITTOR. 



463 



saturated with chloride of zinc dissolved in spirits of wine, one scruple 
to the ounce. Put one of these into each sinus, and let the horse up. 
In three days such of the pieces of tow as have not been removed by 
the sloughing process may be taken from the wounds, and the foot sim- 
ply dressed with chloride of zinc and water, one grain to the ounce, 
squeezed from a sponge, as in the case of open joint. 





THE QUARTER RASPED BENEATH THE OPENINa OP 
A QUITTOR. 



THE SINUSES OF A QUITTOR BEING OPERATED 
UPON. 



This operation, when described, reads abhorrent ; but it is really most 
humane. It is a common thing for a horse to be three, or even six 
months under treatment, on account of an ordinary quittor. During 
the entire space, the foot — the tenderest part of the horse's body — is 
burned with violent caustics, and has had heated wires thrust down its 
sinuses. By the operation proposed, the affair is settled in a few 
minutes. The horse seldom evinces much sensibility while the knife is 
being employed ; in three days the animal is so far recovered as to 
allow the diseased member almost to be left to nature. The horse 
should, however, on no account do any work before the hoof is in some 
measure restored. Until the outer covering of dark horn has grown 
down, a bar shoe, well eased off the diseased quarter, should be worn. 
When the hoof is reproduced, instead of false quarter or other deform- 
ities, the usual results of quittor, it is all but impossible to decide which 
has been the affected foot, and which was operated upon. 



The author has now stated at length that treatment which the horse 
for its own sake deserves, and which, for the honor of the being whom 
it serves, the animal should receive. He has, designedly, rather appealed 



464 



OPERATIONS — QUITTOR. 



to the reason of his readers than sought to enlist their feelings. The 
subject was, indeed, a wide one. Man has hitherto been too content to 
consider animals as something given absolutely to him to be treated 
according to his sovereign will or merest pleasure. He has not reflected 
that, when he was created lord of this earth, he was invested with a 
title which had its responsibilities as well as its privileges. 




ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



30 ( 465 ) 



A BRIEF SUMMARY 



OF THE FOKEGOINQ MATTER, 



ARRANGED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER. 



This abbreviation is made for the purpose of hasty consultation, when 
the symptoms exhibited by the horse are so urgent as will not allow the 
owner to refer to the body of the book. That, however, he is earnestly 
recommended to do after the first anxiety has subsided ; because what 
follows is to be regarded only as notes of cases, and by no means to be 
viewed as a substitute for the more detailed descriptions of diseases and 
their treatment. 



ABSCESS OF THE BRAIN. 



Cause. — Some injury to the head. 

Symptoms. — Dullness; refusal to feed; a slight oozing from a trivial 
injury upon the skull ; prostration, and the animal, while on the ground, 
continues knocking the head violently against the earth until death 
ensues. 

Treatment. — None of any service. 

ABDOMINAL INJURIES. 

Ruptured Diaphragm, generally produces a soft cough ; sitting on the 
haunches or leaning on the chest may or may not be present ; the coun- 
tenance is haggard. 

Ruptured Spleen answers to the tests described under " Hemorrhage 
of the Liver." 

(46t) 



468 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 

Ruptured Stomach is characterized by excessive colic, followed by. 
tympanitis. 

Introsusception possibly may be relieved by the inhalation of a full 
dose of chloroform ; but the result is always uncertain. 

Invagination is attended with the greatest possible agony. 

Strangulation is not to be distinguished, during life, from invagina- 
tion. 

Calculus causes death by impactment ; but however different the causes 
of abdominal injury may be, they each produce the greatest agony, which 
conceals the other symptoms, and makes all such injuries apparently the 
same while the life lasts. 

ACITES, OR DROPSY OP THE ABDOMEN. 

Cause. — Chronic peritonitis. 

Symptoms. — Pulse hard ; head pendulous ; food often spoiled ; mem- 
branes pallid ; mouth dry. Pressure to abdomen elicits a groan ; turn- 
ing in the stall calls forth a grunt. Want of spirit; constant lying 
down ; restlessness ; thirst ; loss of appetite ; weakness ; thinness ; en- 
larged abdomen; constipation and hide-bound. Small bags depend 
from the chest and belly; the sheath and one leg sometimes enlarge; the 
mane breaks off; the tail drops out. Purgation and death. 

Treatment. — When the symptoms first appear give, night and morn- 
ing, strychnia, half a grain, worked up to one grain ; iodide of iron, half 
a drachm, worked up to one drachm and a half; extract of belladonna, 
one scruple ; extract of gentian and powdered quassia, of each a suffi- 
ciency ; apply small blisters, in rapid succession, upon the abdomen : but 
if the effusion is confirmed, a cure is hopeless. 

ACUTE DYSENTERY. 

Cause. — Some acrid substance taken into the stomach. 

Symptoms. — Abdominal pain; violent purgation; the feces become 
discolored, and water fetid; intermittent pulse; haggard countenance; 
the position characterizes the seat of anguish. Perspiration, tympanitis, 
and death. 

Treatment. — Give sulphuric ether, one ounce; laudanum, three ounces; 
liquor potassae, half an ounce ; powdered chalk, one ounce ; tincture of 
catechu, one ounce; cold linseed tea, one pint. Repeat every fifteen 
minutes. Cleanse the quarters ; plait the tail ; inject cold linseed tea. 
The whole of the irritating substance must be expelled before improve- 
ment can take place. 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 469 



• ACUTE GASTRITIS. 

Cause. — Poison ; generally given to improve the coat. 

Symptoms. — Excessive pain, resembling fury. 

Treatment. — Give, as often and as quickly as possible, the following 
drink: Sulphuric ether and laudanum, of each three ounces; carbon- 
ate of magnesia, soda, or potash, four ounces; gruel, (quite cold,) one 
quart. Should the pulse be sinking, add to the drink carbonate of am- 
monia, one drachm. If corrosive sublimate is known to be the poison, 
one dozen raw eggs should be blended with each drench. If delirium 
be present, give the medicine as directed for tetanus, with the stomach 
pump. 

ACUTE LAMINITIS. 

Cause. — Often man's brutality. Horses driven far and upon hard 
roads are exposed to the disorder. Any stress long applied to the foot, 
as standing in the hold of a ship, may generate the affection. 

Symptoms. — The pace seems odd toward the end of the journey; but 
the horse is placed in the stable with plenty of food for the night. Next 
morning the animal is found all of a heap. Flesh quivering; eyes 
glaring ; nostrils distended, and breath jerking ; flanks tucked up ; back 
reached ; head erect ; mouth closed ; hind legs advanced under the 
belly ; fore legs pushed forward ; fore feet resting upon the heels, and 
the limbs moved as though the horse were dancing upon hot irons. 

Treatment. — Put on the slings in silence. To the end of the cords 
append weights. Soak the feet in warm water, in which a portion of 
alkali is dissolved. Cut out the nails from the softened horn. Before 
the shoes are removed give half a drachm of belladonna and fifteen grains 
of digitalis, and repeat the dose every half hour until the symptoms 
abate. When the slings are up, open the jugular vein ; abstract one 
quart of blood, and inject one pint of luke-warm water. Clothe the 
body ; place thin gruel and green-meat within reach, and leave two men 
to watch for the first three nights. 

Next morning give sulphuric ether and laudanum, of each two ounces, 
in a pint of water. Should the pastern arteries throb, open the veins 
and place the feet in warm water. While the affection lasts, pursue these 
measures; and it is a bad symptom, though not a certain one, if no 
change for the better takes place in five days. 



4T0 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



ALBUMINOUS URINE. • 

Cause. — Unknown. 

Symptoms. — These consist of the positions assumed by the horse. 
The legs are either stretched out or the hind feet are brought under 
the body. Straddling gait, and much difficulty in turning within the 
stall. Some urine being caught, it is thick, and answers to certain 
chemical tests. 

Treatment. — Bleed moderately; give a laxative, and apply mustard 
to the loins. As after-measures, perfect rest, attention to diet, and 
repeated doses of opium. 

APHTHA. 

Cause. — Unknown. 

Symptoms. — Small swelling on the lips; larger swellings upon the 
tongue. As the disease progresses, a clear liquid appears in each 
swelling. The bladders burst, crusts form, and the disease disappears. 

Treatment. — Soft food, and the following wash for the mouth : 
Take borax, five ounces ; honey or treacle, two pints ; water, one gallon. 
Mix. 

BLOOD SPAVIN. 

A disease never encountered at the present time. 

BOG SPAVIN. 

Cause. — Brutality of some kind. 

Symptom. — A puffy swelling at the front of and at the upper part of 
the hock. 

Treatment. — Pressure, maintained by means of an India-rubber 
bandage. 

BOTS. 

Cause. — Turning out to grass. 

Treatment. — No remedy. Wait till the following year, and the para- 
sites will be ejected naturally. 

BREAKING DOWN. 

Cause. — Violent exertion ; generally when racing. 

Symptoms. — The horse, when going, suddenly loses power to put one 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 4fl 

leg to the ground. The foot is turned upward ; pain excessive j breath- 
ing quickened ; pulse accelerated ; appetite lost. In time these symp- 
toms abate, but the leg is disabled for life. 

Treatment. — Bleed and purge, or not, as the symptoms are severe. 
Place a linen bandage round the injury, and see that this is kept con- 
stantly cold and wet ; put on a high-heeled shoe, and leave the issue to 
nature. The animal is afterward serviceable only to breed from. 

BROKEN KNEES. 

Causes. — Terrifying a horse, or rendering alive only to fear. Pulling 
in the chin to the breast, or driving with a tight bearing-rein. 

Symptoms. — The horse falls ; the knee may only be slightly broken, 
but deeply contused. A slough must then take place, and open joint 
may result. Or the animal may fall, and, when down, be driven forward 
by the impetus of its motion. The knee is cut by the fall, and the skin 
of the knee may be forced back by the onward impulse. This skin will 
become dirty ; but the removed integument will fly back on the animal's 
rising, thus forming a kind of bag containing and concealing foreign 
matter. 

Treatment. — Procure a pail of milk-warm water and a large sponge. 
Dip the sponge in the pail, and squeeze out the water above the knee. 
Continue to do this, but do not dab or sop the wound itself. The water 
flowing over the knee will wash away every impurity. Then with a probe 
gently explore the bag. If small, make a puncture through the bottom 
of the bag ; if large, insert a seton, and move it night and morning until 
good pus is secreted : then withdraw the seton. " Rack up" the horse's 
head, and get some cold water, to every quart of which add two ounces 
of tincture of arnica. Pour a little of this into a saucer, and then dip 
a sponge into the liquid. Squeeze the sponge dry above the joint. Do 
this every half hour for three and a half days, both by day and night. 
If at the end of that time all is going on well, the head may be released ; 
but should the knee enlarge and become sensitive, while the animal 
refuses to put the foot to the ground, withdraw the seton ; give no hay, 
Dut all the oats and beans that can be eaten, with two pots of stout each 
day. Place the quadruped in slings ; apply the arnica lotion until a 
slough takes place ; then resort to the chloride of zinc lotion, one scru- 
ple to the pint, and continue to use this as has been directed. 



472 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



BROKEN WIND. 



Causes. — Old age, prolonged work, and bad food. 

Symptoms. — Short, dry, hacking cough, caused by irritability of the 
larynx ; ravenous appetite ; insatiable thirst ; abundant flatus. Dung 
half digested ; belly pendulous ; coat ragged ; aspect dejected. Res- 
piration is performed by a triple effort ; inspiration is spasmodic and 
single ; expiration is labored and double. The ribs first essay to expel 
the air from the lungs ; these failing, the diaphragm and abdominal mus- 
cles take up the action. Broken wind can be set or concealed for a time 
by forcing the aninml to swallow quantities of grease, tar, or shot. A 
drink of water, however, will always reproduce the symptoms. 

Treatment. — No cure. Relief alone is possible. Never give water 
before work. Four half pails of water to be allowed in twenty-four 
hours. In each draught mingle half an ounce of phosphoric acid or half 
a drachm of sulphuric acid. Remove the bed in the day; mu'^zle at 
night ; put a lump of rock-salt and of chalk in the manger. Never push 
hard or take upon a very long journey. 

BRONCHITIS. 

Causes. — Riding far and fast ; then leaving exposed, especially to the 
night air ; neglect and constitutional liability. 

Symptoms. — Appetite often not affected ; sometimes it is increased. 
A short cough, in the first instance ; breathing only excited ; legs warm ; 
mouth moist ; and nasal membrane merely deeper color during the early 
stage. When confirmed, the appetite is lost ; the horse is averse to 
move ; the cough is sore and suppressed ; the breathing is audible ; the 
membranes are scarlet ; the mouth is hot and dry ; the legs are cold ; 
the body is of uneven temperatures. 

Treatment. — Do not deplete. Place in a large, loose box ; fill the 
place with steam; apply scalded hay to the throat; fix flannels wet with 
cold water to the back and side by means of a Mackintosh jacket, "When 
the flannel becomes warm, change it immediately. Do this for two 
hours. After that space the flannel may remain on, but must not become 
dry. Prepare half a pound of melted Burgundy pitch, and stir into it 
two ounces of powdered camphor, with half a drachm of powdered cap- 
sicums. Apply the mixture to the throat. To restore tone to the pulse, 
give, every half hour, sulphuric ether and laudanum, of each one ounce ; 
water, one pint. If no effect be produced by three of these drinks, sub- 
stitute infusion of aconite, half an ounce ; extract of belladonna, half a 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 473 

drachm, rubbed down in water, a quarter of a pint. When the pulse has 
recovered, resume the former physic, only adding half a drachm of bella- 
donna to each dose. Support with gruel. Introduce food gradually; 
" chill " the water ; be careful of hay, and mind, when given, it is thor- 
oughly damped. 

BRONCHOCELE. 

Symptom. — An enlargement on the side of the throat. 

Treatment. — Give the following, night and morning: Iodide of potas- 
sium, half a drachm ; liquor potassae, one drachm ; distilled water, half a 
pint. Also, rub into the swelling the accompanying ointment : Iodide 
of lead, one drachm; simple cerate, one ounce. 

BRUISE OF THE SOLE. 

Cause. — Treading on a stone or some projecting body. 

Symptom. — Effusion of blood into the horny sole. 

Treatment. — Cut away the stained horn, and shoe with leather. 

CALCULL 
Causes. — Unknown. 

Symptoms of Renal Calculus. — TJrine purulent, thick, opaque, 
gritty, or bloody ; back roached. Pressure on the loins occasions 
shrinking ; the arm in the rectum and the hand carried upward provoke 
alarm. 

Treatment. — Two drachms of hydrochloric acid in every pail of 
water ; but the result is dubious. 

Symptoms of Cystic Calculus. — Same states of urine as in renal cal- 
culus. The water, when flowing forth, is suddenly stopped ; every emis- 
sion is followed by straining ; the back is hollowed ; the point of the 
penis is sometimes exposed ; and, when going down hill, the animal often 
pulls up short. 

Treatment of Cystic Calculus. — ^Examine per rectum. An operation 
for the horse, or Mr. Simmonds's instrument for the mare, is imperative. 
When the stone is small, hydrochloric acid may be tried. 

Symptdms of Urethral Calculus. — Suppression of urine ; great suf- 
fering. If the urethral calculus is impacted in the exposed portion of 
the urethra, the passage is distended behind the stoppage. 

Treatment of Urethral Calculus. — Cut down upon and remove the 
substance. 



4U ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



Canker. 



Cause. — Old horses, when " turned out" for life as pensioners ; aged 
and neglected animals will also exhibit the disease. 

Symptoms. — "Not much lameness. The disease commences at the cleft 
of the frog ; a liquid issues from the part, more abundant and more 
abominable than in thrush; it often exudes from the commissures joining 
the sole to the frog. The horn firstly bulges out ; then it flakes ofi", ex- 
posing a spongy and soft substance, which is fungoid horn. The fungoid 
horn is most abundant about the margin of the sole, and upon its surface 
it flakes oflF. This horn has no sensation. The disease is difficult to 
eradicate when one fore foot is involved. When all four feet are impli- 
cated, a cui*e is all but hopeless, and the treatment is certain to be slow 
and vexatious. 

Treatment. — See that the stable is large, clean, and comfortable; 
note that the food is of the best ; allow liberal support ; pare off the 
superficial fungoid horn, and so much of the deep seated as can be 
detached. Apply to the diseased parts some of the following : Chlo- 
ride of zinc, half an ounce ; flour, four ounces. Put on the foot without 
water. To the sound hoof apply chloride of zinc, four grains; flour, 
one ounce. Cover the sound parts before the cankered horn is dressed; 
tack on the shoe ; pad well and firmly. When places appear to be in 
confirmed health, the following may be used: Chloride of zinc, two 
grains; flour, one ounce. At first, dress every second day; after a time, 
every third day, and give exercise as soon as possible. 

CAPPED ELBOW. 

Cause. — Injury to the point of the elbow. 

Symptom. — It is often of magnitude, and is liable to ulcerate and 
become sinuous. 

Treatment. — The same as capped hock. 

CAPPED HOCK, 

Cause. — Any injury to the point of the calcis. 

Symptom. — A round swelling on the point of the hock, which, should 
the cause be repeated, often becomes of great size. 

Treatment. — If small, set several men to hand-rub the tumor con- 
stantly for a few days. Should the capped hock be of magnitude, dis- 
sect out the enlargement, without puncturing it. Remove none of the 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 475 

pendulous skin. Treat the wound with the lotion of chloride of zinc — 
one grain to the ounce of water — and it will heal after some weeks. 



CAPPED KNEE. 

Cause. — The same as the previous affection. 

Symptom. — A soft tumor in front of the knee. 

Treatment. — If let alone, it would burst and leave a permanent blem- 
ish. Draw the skin to one side, and with a lancet pierce the lower sur- 
face of the tumor. Treat the wound as an open joint. 

CATARACT. 

Cause. — Looking at white walls, or receiving external injuries. Spe- 
cific ophthalmia generates a permanent cataract. 

Symptoms. — When partial, shying; if total, white pupil and blind- 
ness. 

Treatment. — Color the inside of the stable green, as cataract, when 
not total, is sometimes absorbed. 

CHOKING. 

Causes. — Something impacted in the gullet, either high up or low 
down. 

Symptoms — High Choke. — Raised head; saliva; discharge from the 
nostrils; inflamed eyes; haggard countenance; audible breathing; the 
muscles of neck tetanic ; the flanks heave ; the fore feet paw and stamp ; 
the hind legs crouch and dance ; perspiration ; agony excessive. Low 
Choke. — The animal ceases to feed; water returns by the nostrils; 
countenance expresses anguish ; saliva and nasal discharge ; labored by 
seldom, noisy breathing; reached back; tucked-up flanks, while the 
horse stands as though'it were desirous of elevating the quarters. 

Treatment. — Make haste when high choks is present. Perform tra- 
cheotomy to relieve the breathing ; insert the balling-iron, or, with a hook 
extemporized out of any wire, endeavor to remove the substance from 
the throat. If the choking body is too firmly lodged to be thus re- 
moved, sulphuric ether must be inhaled to relax the spasm. The ether 
not succeeding, an q^^ is probably impacted. Destroy its integrity with 
a darning-needle carefully inserted through the skin; then break the 
shell by outward pressure. Low choke is seldom fatal before the expi- 
ration of three days. Give a quarter of a pint of oil every hour ; in 
the intermediate half hours give sulphuric ether, two ounces ; laudanum, 



4Y6 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY, 

two ounces; water, half a pint; and use the probang after every dose of 
the last medicine. Should these be returned, cause chloroform to be 
inhaled; then insert the probang, and, by steady pressure, drive the 
substance forward. 

Subsequent to the removal of impactment feed with caution. 

CHRONIC DYSENTERY. 

Cause. — Not well understood ; generally attacks old horses belonging 
to penurious masters. 

Symptoms. — Purging without excitement, always upon drinking cold 
water ; violent straining ; belly enlarges ; flesh wastes ; bones protrude ; 
skin hide-bound ; membranes pallid ; weakness ; perspiration ; standing 
in one place for hours. At last the eyes assume a sleepy, pathetic ex- 
pression; the head is slowly turned toward the flanks; remains fixed 
for some minutes; the horse only moves when the bowels are about to 
act; colic; death. 

Treatment. — Give, thrice daily, crude opium, half an ounce; liquor 
potasses, one ounce; chalk, one ounce; tincture of all-spice, one ounce; 
alum, half an ounce; ale, one quart. Should the horse belong to a gen- 
erous master, give one of the following drinks thrice daily, upon the 
symptoms being confirmed : Sulphuric ether, one ounce ; laudanum, 
three ounces; liquor potassse, half an ounce; powdered chalk, one 
ounce; tincture of catechu, one ounce; cold linseed tea, one pint. Or, 
chloroform, half an ounce ; extract of belladonna, half a drachm ; car- 
bonate of ammonia, one drachm; powdered camphor, half a drachm; 
tincture of oak-bark, one ounce; cold linseed tea, one pint. Feed 
lightly; dress frequently; give a good bed and a roomy lodging. 

CHRONIC GASTRITIS. 

Symptoms. — Irregularity of bowels and appetite; pallid membranes; 
mouth cold ; a dry cough ; tainted breath ; sunken eye ; catching res- 
piration ; pendulous belly ; ragged coat, and emaciation. Sweating on 
the slightest exertion ; eating wood-work or bricks and mortar. 

Treatment. — Do not purge ; administer bitters, sedatives, and alka- 
lies. Give powdered nux vomica, one scruple; carbonate of potash, 
one drachm ; extract of belladonna, half a drachm ; extract of gentian 
and powdered quassia, of each a sufficiency. Or give strychnia, half a 
grain; bicarbonate of ammonia, one drachm; extract of belladonna, 
half a drachm ; sulphate of zinc, half a drachm ; extract of gentian and 
powdered quassia, of each a sufficiency. Give one ball night and morn- 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 477 

ing ; when these balls seem to have lost their power, give half an ounce 
each of liquor arsenicalis and tincture of ipecacuanha, with one ounce 
of muriated tincture of iron and laudanum, in a pint of water ; damp 
the food ; sprinkle magnesia on it. As the strength improves, give sul- 
phuric ether, one ounce ; water, one pint, daily. Ultimately change that 
for a quart of ale or stout daily. 

CHRONIC HEPATITIS. 

Cause. — Too good food and too little work. 

Symptoms. — Cold mouth; pallid membranes; white of eyes ghastly, 
displaying a yellow tinge ; looks toward the right side ; the right side 
may be tender for a long time, with generally repeated attacks of this 
nature, although the horse may perish with the first fit. 

Treatment. — Hold up the head, and if the horse staggers, this proves 
hemorrhage from the liver. Give sufficient of nutritious food, but only 
enough of it, plenty of labor, and the following physic : Iodide of 
potassium, two ounces; liquor potassse, one quart; dose, night and 
morning, two tablespoonfuls in a pint of water. 

CLAP OF THE BACK SINEWS. 

Cause. — Extra exertion. 

Symptoms. — The maimed limb is flexed ; the toe rests upon the ground. 
In a short space a tumor appears; it is small, hot, soft, and tender, but 
soon grows hard. Great pain, but attended with few constitutional 
symptoms. 

Treatment. — Administer physic, and bleed gently ; then give a few 
doses of febrifuge medicine, but go no further than to reduce the pulse 
to fifty-five degrees. Pnt a linen bandage on the leg ; keep this con- 
stantly wet until the primary symptoms abate. Cut grass for food while 
fever exists ; continue the cold water till recovery is confirmed. The 
horse will not be fit to work for many months. 

COLD. 

If mild, a little green-meat, a few mashes, an extra rug, and a slight 
rest generally accomplish a cure. 

Symptoms of severe cold are dullness ; a rough coat ; the body of dif- 
ferent temperatures ; the nasal membrane deep scarlet, or of a leaden 
color ; the appetite is lost ; simple ophthalmia ; tears ; the sinuses are 
clogged, and a discharge from the nose appears. 



4Y8 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 

Treatment. — Give no active medicine. Apply the steaming nose-bag 
six times daily; allow cut grass and mashes for food, with gruel for 
drink. If weak, present three feeds of crushed and scalded oats and 
beans daily, with a pot of stout morning and evening. Good nursing, 
with pure air, warmth, and not even exercise, till the disease abates, are 
of more importance than " doctor's stuff" in a case of severe cold. Cold, 
however, often ushers in other and more dangerous diseases. 

CONGESTION IN THE FIELD. 

Cause. — Riding a horse after the hounds when out of condition. 

Symptoms. — The horse, from exhaustion, reels and falls. The body 
is clammy cold ; the breathing is labored ; every vein is turgid. 

Treatment. — Bleed, if possible ; cover the body ; lead gently to the 
nearest stable ; keep hot rugs upon the animal ; bandage the legs and 
hood the neck ; warm the place, either by a fire or tubs full of hot water. 
Give, without noise, every half hour, one ounce of sulphuric ether, half 
an ounce of laudanum, half a pint of cold water. Should no chemist be 
at hand, beat up two ounces of turpentine with the yolk of an egg ; mix 
it with half a pint of water, and repeat the dose at the times stated. 
Allow an ample bed, and place a pail of gruel within easy reach of the 
horse. Do not leave the animal for thirty hours, as in that time its fate 
will be decided. 

CONGESTION IN THE STABLE. 

Cause. — A debilitated, fat horse, unused to work, being driven fast 
with a heavy load behind it. 

Symptoms. — Hanging head ; food not glanced at ; blowing ; artery 
gorged and round ; pulse feeble ; cold and partial perspirations ; feet 
cold ; eye fixed ; hearing lost ; and the attitude motionless. 

Treatment. — Give immediately two ounces each of sulphuric ether and 
of laudanum in a pint of cold water. Give the drink with every caution. 
In ten minutes repeat the medicine, if necessary. Wait twenty minutes, 
and give another drink, if requisite ; more are seldom needed. Take 
away all solid food, and allow gruel for the remainder of the day. 

CORNS. 

Cause. — In a flat foot, the heels of the coflin-bone squeeze the sensi- 
tive sole by pressing it against the shoe. In a contracted foot, the sen- 
sitive sole is squeezed between the wings of the coffin-bone and the thick, 
horny sole. A bruise results ; blood is effused ; and the stain of this left 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 4Y9 

upon the horny sole — generally upon the inner side and anterior to the 
bars — constitutes a horse's corn, which is mostly found on the fore feet. 

Symptom. — If the stain is dark, and is to be removed with the knife, 
this indicates a corn has been, but no longer exists. The smallest stain 
of bright scarlet testifies to the existence of a new and present corn. 
Corns are of four kinds — the old, the new, the sappy, and the suppura- 
tive. The old and new are produced by the blood, and are judged by 
the scarlet or dark-colored stain. The old is generally near the surface, 
the new is commonly deep seated. The sappy is when the bruise is only 
heavy enough to effuse ^erum. The new corn alone produces lameness. 
The suppurating corn may start up from either of the others receiving 
additional injury. It causes intense pain and produces acute lameness. 

Treatment. — Cut out the stain. If a suppurating corn, place the foot 
in a poultice, after having opened the abscess. Then, the horn being 
softened, cut away all the sole which has been released by the pus from 
its attachment to the secreting surface. Tack on an old shoe, and dress 
with the solution of the chloride of zinc, one grain to the ounce. After- 
ward shoe with leather, and employ stopping to render the horn plastic. 

COUGH. 

Causes. — Foul stables ; hot stables ; coarse, dusty provender ; rank 
bedding ; irregular work ; while the affection may attend many diseases. 
Treatment. — Crush the oats ; damp the hay ; give gruel or linseed 
tea for drink. Clothe warmly, and give, thrice daily, half a pint of the 
following in a tumbler of water : Extract of belladonna, one drachm, 
rubbed down in a pint of cold water ; tincture of squills, ten ounces ; 
tincture of ipecacuanha, eight ounces. No change ensuing, next try — 
Barbadoes or common tar, half an ounce ; calomel, five grains ; linseed 
meal, a sufficiency : make into a ball, and give one night and morning. 
This being attended with no improvement, employ — Powdered aloes, 
one drachm ; balsam of copaiba, three drachms ; cantharides, three 
, grains ; common mass, a sufficiency. Mix, and give every morning, 
• A daily bundle of cut grass is good in the spring of the year. A lump 
of rock-salt has been beneficial. If the animal eats the litter, muzzle 
it. Roots are good. Moisten the hay ; and, above all things, attend 
to the ventilation of the stable. 

CRACKED HEELS. 

Cause. — Cutting the hair from the heels, and turning into a straw-yard 
during winter. 



480 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 

Symptoms. — Thickened skin ; cracks ; and sometimes ulceration. 

Treatment. — Wash; dry thoroughly; apply the following wash: 
Animal glycerin, half a pint ; chloride of zinc, two drachms ; strong 
solution of oak-bark, one pint. Mix. If ulceration has commenced, 
rest the horse. Give a few bran mashes or a little cut grass to open the 
bowels. Use the next wash : Animal glycerin, or phosphoric acid, two 
ounces ; permanganate of potash, or creosote, half an ounce ; water, 
three ounces : apply six times daily. Give a drink each day composed 
of liquor arsenicalis, half an ounce ; tincture of ^muriate of iron, one 
ounce ; water, one pint. 

CRIB-BITING. 

Cause. — Sameness of food and unhealthy stables, or indigestion. 

Symptoms. — Placing the upper incisors against some support, and, 
with some effort, emitting a small portion of gas. 

Treatment. — Place a lump of rock-salt in the manger ; if that is not 
successful, add a lump of chalk. Then damp the food, and sprinkle 
magnesia upon it, and mingle a handful of ground oak-bark with each 
feed of corn. Purify the ventilation of the stable before these remedies 
are applied. 

CURB. 

Causes. — Galloping on uneven ground ; wrenching the limb ; prancing 
and leaping. 

Symptom. — A bulging out at the posterior of the hock, accompanied 
by heat and pain, often by lameness. 

Treatment. — Rest the animal. Put on an India-rubber bandage, (see 
page 307,) and under it a folded cloth. Keep the cloth wet and cool 
with cold water. When all inflammation has disappeared, blister the hock. 

CYSTITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE BLADDER. 

Causes. — Kicks and blows under the flank. Abuse of medicine, and. 
bad food, with the provocatives generally of nephritis. 

Symptoms. — Those common to pain and inflammation. Urine, how- 
ever, affords the principal indication. At first, it is at intervals jerked 
forth in small quantities. Ultimately it flows forth constantly drop by 
drop. A certain but a dangerous test is to insert the arm up the rec- 
tum, and to feel the small and compressed bladder. A safer test is to 
press the flank, which, should cystitis be present, calls forth resistance. 

Treatment. — Give scruple doses of aconite, should the pulse be ex- 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 481 

cited ; the same of belladonna, should pain be excessive ; and calomel 
with opium, to arrest the disease. Place under the belly, by means of a 
rug, a cloth soaked with strong liquor ammonia diluted with six times 
its bulk of water. Or apply a rug dipped into hot water or loaded with 
cold water ; change when either becomes warm. 

DIABETES INSIPIDUS, OR PROFUSE STALING. 

Causes. — Diuretic drugs or bad food. 

Symptoms. — Weakness ; loss of flesh ; loss of condition. 

Treatment. — Do not take from the stable ; keep a pail of linseed tea 
in the manger ; give no grass or hay ; groom well. Order a ball com- 
posed of iodide of iron, one drachm ; honey and linseed meal, a suf- 
ficiency. Or a drink consisting of phosphoric acid, one ounce ; water, 
one pint. Give the ball daily; the drink, at night and at morning. 

ENTERITIS. 

Causes. — Greatly conjectural. Prolonged colic may end in it. Con- 
stipation may induce it. 

Symptoms. — Dullness ; heaviness ; picks the food ; shivers repeatedly ; 
rolling; plunging; kicking, but more gently than in spasmodic colic; 
quickened breathing ; hot, dry mouth ; wiry pulse. Pressure to the 
abdomen gives pain. Remove your coat ; insert the arm up the anus ; 
if the intestines are very hot, all is confirmed. 

Treatment. — Extract one quart of blood from the jugular, and inject 
into the vein one pint of water at a blood heat. Give aconite in powder, 
half a drachm ; sulphuric ether, three ounces ; laudanum, three ounces ; 
extract of belladonna, one drachm, (rubbed down in cold water, one pint 
and a half.) As the pulse changes, withdraw the aconite ; as the pain 
subsides, discontinue the belladonna. The other ingredients may be 
diminished as the horse appears to be more comfortable. Should the 
pain linger after the administration of the eighth drink, apply an am- 
moniacal blister. Sprinkle on the tongue, if any symptoms declare the 
disease vanquished but not fled, every second hour, calomel, half a 
drachm ; opium, one drachm. Feed very carefully upon recovery, avoid- 
ing all things purgative or harsh to the bowels. 

EXCORIATED ANGLES OF THE MOUTH. 

Cause. — Abuse of the reins. 

Treatment. — Apply the following lotion to the part : Chloride of zinc, 
two scruples ; essence of anise seed, two drachms ; water, two pints. 

31 



482 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



FALSE QUARTER. 

Cause. — Injury to the coronet, producing an absence of the secreting 
coronet of the crust from the hoof. 

Symptoms. — No lameness, but weakness of the foot. The soft horn 
of the laminae, being exposed, is apt to crack. Bleeding ensues. Some- 
times granulations sprout when the pain and the lameness are most 
acute. 

Treatment. — In cases of crack and granulations, treat as is advised 
for sandcrack. Put on a bar shoe, with a clip on each side of the false 
quarter. Pare down the edges of the crack, and ease off the point of 
bearing on the false quarter. A piece of gutta-percha, fastened over the 
false quarter, has done good. 

FARCY. 

Causes. — Excessive labor, poor food, and bad lodging operating upon 
old age. 

Symptoms. — It is at first inflammation of the superficial absorbents. 
Lumps appear on various parts. If these lumps are opened, healthy 
matter is released ; but the place soon becomes a foul ulcer, from which 
bunches of fungoid granulations sprout. From the lumps may be traced 
little cords leading to other swellings. The appetite fails, or else it is 
voracious. Matter may be squeezed through the skin. Thirst is tor- 
turing. At length glanders breaks forth, and the animal dies. There 
is a smaller kind of farcy called button-farcy ; the smaller sort is the 
more virulent of the two. 

Cure, — There is no known cure for the disease. 

FISTULOUS PAROTID DUCT. 

Causes. — Hay-seeds or other substances getting into the mouth of the 
duct during mastication. Stones being formed within the canal. The 
stable-fork in the hand of an intemperate groom. 

Symptoms. — The duct greatly enlarges behind the obstacle, which, 
becoming swollen, prevents the secretion from entering the mouth. 
Great agony is occasioned by every mouthful masticated. The duct 
bursts, and a fistulous opening is established, through which the saliva 
jerks at each motion of the jaw. From the absence of a secretion im- 
portant to digestion, the flesh wastes, and the animal soon assumes a 
miserable appearance. 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 483 

Treatment. — Make an adhesive fluid with gum mastic and spirits of 
wine, or with India-rubber and sulphuric ether. When the horse is not 
feeding, pare the hardened edges from the wound ; cover the orifice with 
a piece of strained India-rubber ; over this put a layer of cotton ; fasten 
one end to the horse's cheek by means of the adhesive fluid; that having 
dried, fasten the other end tightly down. Place other layers of cotton 
over this, allowing each layer to cross the other, and fastening all to the 
cheek. Fasten the head to the pillar-reins ; allow the horse to remain 
till the cotton falls off", and give only gruel for food. Put tan under 
the feet ; and should the first trial not succeed, repeat it. 

FISTULOUS WITHERS, 

Cause. — External injury, generally by the lady's saddle, which bruises 
one of the bursas placed above the withers. 

Symptoms. — When first done, a small, round swelling appears on the 
off side. If this is neglected, the place enlarges, and numerous holes 
burst out, which are the mouths of so many fistulous pipes. 

Treatment. — In the early stage, go to the horse's side, impale the 
tumor and divide it. Touch the interior with lunar caustic ; keep the 
wound moist with the chloride of zinc lotion, one grain to the ounce of 
water, and cover it with a cloth dipped in a solution of tar. If the 
sinuses are established, make one cut to embrace as many as possible. 
Clean out the corruption. Scrape or cut off any black or white bone 
which may be exposed. Cover with a cloth, and keep wet with the solu- 
tion of chloride of zinc. Should there exist a long sinus leading from 
the withers to the elbow, insert a seton by means of the guarded seton 
needle. This seton should be withdrawn so soon as a stream of creamy 
pus is emitted. 

FUNGOID TUMORS IN THE EYE. 

Cause. — Unknown. 

Symptoms. — Blindness ; a yellow, metallic appearance to be seen in , 
the eye. 

Treatment — None of any service. 

GLANDERS. 

Cause. — Bad lodging, stimulating food, and excessive work operating 
upon young life. 

Symptoms. — Staring coat ; lungs or air-passages always affected ; 



484 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 

flesh fades ; glands swell ; spirit low ; appetite bad. A lymphatic 
gland adheres to the inside of the jaw ; the membrane inside the nose 
ulcerates ; a slight discharge from one nostril. This becomes thicker, 
and adheres to the margin of the nostril, exhibiting white threads and 
bits of mucus ; then it changes to a full stream of foul pus ; next the 
nasal membrane grows dull and dropsical ; the margins of the nostrils 
enlarge ; the horse breathes with difficulty ; the discharge turns discol- 
ored and abhorrent ; farcy breaks forth, and the animal dies of suffo- 
cation. 

Treatment. — There is no known cure. 



GREASE. 

Causes. — Age; debility; excessive labor; neglect; filth. Cutting the 
hair off the heels ; turning out to grass in the cold months. 

Symptoms. — Scurfiness and itchiness of the legs. Rubbing the leg 
with the hoof of the opposite limb ; hairs stand on end ; moisture ex- 
udes, and hangs upon the hairs in drops. Smells abhorrently; lameness ; 
cracks on the skin ; swelling ; ulceration ; thin discharge ; odor worse. 
Lameness increases ; leg enlarges ; granulations sprout in ragged bunches ; 
their points harden and become like horn ; pain excessive ; horn of hoof 
grows long. 

Treatment. — Cut off all remaining hair. If hot and scurfy, cleanse 
with mild soap and hot, soft water ; saturate a cloth with the following 
lotion : Animal glycerin, half a pint ; chloride of zinc, half an ounce ; 
water, six quarts. Lay it upon the leg. When this cloth becomes 
warm, remove it, and apply another, also wet with the lotion ; thus con- 
tinue applying cool cloths to the limb till the heat abates; afterward 
moisten the leg thrice daily. When cracks and ulceration are present, 
adopt the wet cloths ; but subsequently use one of the following to the 
sores : Permanganate of potash or phosphoric acid, one pint ; water, six 
quarts. Or, chloride of zinc, one ounce; water, one gallon: employ 
thrice daily. If the granulations have sprouted, remove them with a 
knife, in three operations, (full directions are given in the book;) like- 
wise always place in a loose box. Feed liberally; allow old beans; 
give a handful of ground oak-bark with each feed of oats. Night and 
morning exhibit liquor arsenicalis, one ounce; tincture of muriate of 
iron, one ounce and a half; porter or stout, one quart: one pint for the 
dose. Chopped roots ; speared wheat ; hay tea ; cut grass, and exer- 
cise are all good for grease. 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 485 



GUTTA SERENA. 

Cause. — Over-exertion. 

Symptoms. — Fixed dilatation of the pupil; a greenish hue of the 
eye; total blindness. Active ears; restless nostrils; head erect; high 
stepping ; occasionally a rough coat in summer and a smooth coat in 
winter. 

Treatment. — No remedy is possible. 

HEART DISEASE. 

Symptoms. — Auscultation. The beat of the heart to be seen ex- 
ternally ; haggard countenance ; pulse feeble ; heart throbs ; the beat 
of the carotid artery is to be felt; the regurgitation in the jugular is to 
be seen. The appetite is sometimes ravenous — often fastidious; the 
breathing is not accelerated excepting during pain ; lameness of one 
leg; dropsical swellings; stopping short when on a journey; averse to 
turn in the stall ; noises ; yawns ; sighs. Death always unexpected. 
No treatment is of any use. 

HEMATURIA, OR BLOODY URINE. 

Cause. — Unknown. 

Symptoms. — Discoloration of the fluid. When the bleeding is 
copious, breathing is oppressed; the pupils of the eyes are dilated. 
Pulse is lost ; head is pendulous ; membranes are pale and cold. Lift- 
ing up the head produces staggering. Back roached; flanks tucked 
up ; legs wide apart. 

Treatment. — Be gentle. Act upon the report given. Give acetate 
of lead, two drachms, in cold water, one pint; or, as a ball, if one can 
be delivered. In a quarter of an hour repeat the dose, adding laudanum, 
one ounce, or powdered opium, two drachms. Repeat the physic till 
one ounce of acetate of lead has been given. Leave the horse undis- 
turbed for two hours, if the symptoms justify delay. If not, dash pail- 
fuls of cold water upon the loins from a height. Give copious injec- 
tions of cold water. Pour half a pint of boiling water upon four 
drachms of ergot of rye. When cold, add laudanum, one ounce, and 
dilute acetic acid, four ounces. Give two of these drinks, and two cold 
enemas, of twenty minutes' duration. Suspend all treatment for eight 
hours, when the measures may be repeated. (For after proceedings, see 
the article which is presented in the body of the book.) 



480 ALFflABETICAL SUMMARY. 



HIDE-BOUND. 

Cause. — Neglect, or turning into a straw-yard for the winter. 

Treatment. — Liberal food, clean lodging, soft bed, healthy exercise, 
and good grooming. Administer, daily, two drinks, composed of: 
Liquor arsenicalis, half an ounce; tincture of muriate of iron, one 
ounce ; water, one pint. Mix, and give as one dose. 

HIGH-BLOWING AND WHEEZING. 
Habits which admit of no remedies. 

HYDROPHOBIA. 

Cause. — Bite from a rabid dog or cat. 

Symptoms. — The horse is constantly licking the bitten place. A 
morbid change takes place in the appetite. Eager thirst, but inability 
to drink, or spasm at the sound or sight of water is exhibited. Nervous 
excitability ; voice and expression of countenance altered. More rarely 
the horse — when taken from the stable — appears well. While at work, 
it stops and threatens to fall. Shivers violently, and is scarcely brought 
home when the savage stage commences. The latter development con- 
sists in the utmost ferocity, blended with a most mischievous cunning, 
or a malicious pleasure in destruction. 

Treatment. — No remedy known. Confine in a strong place and 
shoot immediately. 

HYDROTHORAX. 

Cause. — Pleurisy or inflammation of the membrane lining the chest. 

Symptoms. — The horse is left very ill. The next morning the animal 
is looking better ; the pain has abated ; the eye is more cheerful ; but 
the flanks heave. A man is procured; he is told to strike the chest 
when the person listening on the other side says "now." The word is 
spoken, and a metallic ring follows. The pulse is lost at the jaw ; the 
heart seems to throb through water. The horse has hydrothorax ! 

Treatment. — The first thing is to draw off the fluid. A spot between 
the eighth and ninth ribs is chosen, and the skin is pulled back ; a small 
slit through the skin is made; into that opening an armed trocar is 
driven. When there is no resistance felt, the thorax has been entered ; 
the stilet is withdrawn and the water flows forth. Use a fine trocar; 
take all the fluid you can obtain. Should the horse appear faint, with- 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 48t 

draw the canula, and in two hours again puncture the chest. Afterward 
the food must be prepared, and a ball administered night and morning, 
consisting of iodide of iron, one drachm; strychnia, half a grain; sul- 
phate of zinc, half a drachm ; extract of gentian and powdered quassia, 
a sufficiency. 

IMPEDIMENT IN THE LACHRYMAL DUCT. 

Cause. — A hay-seed or other substance getting into and becoming 
swollen within the duct. 

Symptom. — Swollen lid and copious tears. 

Treatment. — Inject, forcibly, a stream of water up the duct. 



INFLUENZA. 

Cause. — Unknown ; but suspected to be generated by close stables. 
It is also episotic. 

Symptoms. — Weakness and stupidity ; local swellings ; heat and pain 
in the limbs. Loss of appetite ; rapid wasting ; every part of the body 
is diseased. Youth most exposed, but no age exempt. Spring-time 
the general season, but an attack may ensue at any period of the year. 
The following symptoms are somewhat uncertain: Pendulous head; 
short breath ; inflamed membranes ; swollen lips ; dry mouth ; enlarged 
eyelids; copious tears ; sore throat; tucked-up flanks; compressed tail; 
filled legs ; big joints ; lameness and hot feet. Auscultation may detect 
a grating sound at the chest, or a noise like brickbats falling down stairs, 
within the windpipe. When the last is audible, there is always a copious 
discharge. Sometimes one foot is painful; purgation has been seen; 
but constipation is generally present, and the horse usually stands 
throughout the disease. Always suspect influenza when it is in the 
neighborhood, and the membranes are yellow or inflamed. 

Treatment. — Move to a well-littered, warm, loose box. Suspend a 
pail of gruel from the wall ; change the gruel thrice daily ; sprinkle on 
the tongue, night and morning, calomel, one scruple ; wash this down 
with sulphuric ether, one ounce ; laudanum, one ounce ; water, half a 
pint. If weakness increases, double the quantity of ether and of 
laudanum. When the pulse loses all wiry feeling, and the discharge 
becomes copious, give from the hand some bread, on which there is a 
little salt ; when the cough appears, give a pot of stout daily. Beware 
of purgatives or active treatment. 



488 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



INJURIES TO THE JAW. 



Causes. — Pulling the snaffle ; abuse of the bit ; too tight a curb- 
chain. 

Symptoms. — Discoloration before or behind the tush ; bruise under the 
tongue or upon the roof of the mouth ; tumor and bony growth upon 
the margin of the lower jaw. 

Treatment. — Cut upon the discoloration till the knife reaches the bone ; 
if fetor is present, inject the chloride of zinc lotion ; keep the wounds 
open, that the injured bone may come away. 

LACERATED EYELID. 

Causes. — Nails in the gangway, or the horses playfully snapping at 
each other. 

Treatment. — Bathe with cold water till the bleeding ceases ; allow the 
separated parts to remain until the divided edges are sticky ; bring to- 
gether with sutures ; place the horse in the pillar-reins till the healing is 
perfected. 

LACERATED TONGUE. 

Causes. — Sticking to a horse when giving physic; making a "chaw" 
of the halter-rope. 

Treatment. — Insert no sutures ; if the arteries are excised, cut oflF the 
hanging portion of the tongue; should the vessels have escaped, allow 
all to remain ; feed on gruel and soft food ; after every meal wash out 
the mouth with the solution ordered for aphtha, or with the chloride of 
zinc lotion. 

LAMPAS. 
A groom's fancy. 

LARYNGITIS. 

Cause. — Foul stables. 

Symptoms. — Dullness; enlargement over the larynx ; stiff neck; short 
and suppressed cough ; breathing hurried and catching; pulse full ; nasal 
membrane almost scarlet. 

Treatment. — Give drachm doses of tincture of aconite, in wineglasses 
of water every half hour, to amend the pulse. Refrain from bleeding. 
Put on a steaming nose-bag, and keep it almost constantly applied., to 
amend the breathing. Fix some hay, soaked in boiling water, upon ihe 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 489 

throat, by means of an eight-tailed bandage. Give, very carefully, the 
following drink, thrice daily : Infusion of squills, two ounces ; infusion 
of ipecacuanha, two ounces ; infusion of aconite, half an ounce ; extract 
of belladonna, one drachm, rubbed down with a pint of warm water. 
Place in a cool, well-aired, thickly-littered, loose box; bandage the legs; 
clothe the body ; give only gruel for food, changing it thrice daily. On 
improvement, a little moist food may be allowed. When improvement 
is confirmed, put a seton under the throat. Blister the throat ; pick and 
damp the hay; sift, bruise, and scald the oats. Employ no lowering 
agents. 

LARVA IN THE SKIN. 

Causes. — Turning out to grass. The fly lays its egg upon the hair, 
the warmth of the body hatches it, and the larva enters the skin. The 
next summer a tolerably large abscess is established, the insect occupy- 
ing its center. 

Treatment — With a lancet open the abscess, and squeeze out the 
larva. Dab the wound with a lotion made of chloride of zinc, one 
grain; water, one ounce. 

LICE. 

Causes. — Filth and debility. 

Treatment. — Rub the skin with some cheap oil or grease. Wash, and 
then look for other diseases, as hide-bound, mange, etc. 

LAMINITIS, (SUBACUTE.) 

Causes. — Age; long standing in the stable; over-work, and stinted 
diet. 

Symptoms. — First noticed by the manner of going upon the heels of 
the fore feet. 

Treatment. — Get into slings. Remove the shoes. Do not bleed. If 
costiveness is present open the bowels with green-meat, but do not purge. 
Give a quart of stout, night and morning. Allow two drinks per day, 
each consisting of one ounce of sulphuric ether and half a pint of water ; 
half -drachm doses of belladonna, to allay pain; sound oats and old 
beans, both crushed, for food ; water to be whitened ; no hay. No limit 
to this food, but five feeds to be given if the horse will eat so much. 



490 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



LUXATION OF THE PATELLA. 



Cause. — Bad food and constitutional weakness. 

Symptoms. — The horse stops short, and has one of the hind legs ex- 
tended backward. A swelling upon the outer side. The pastern is 
flexed, the head raised, and the animal in great pain. In colts it will 
sometimes appear on the slightest cause. 

Treatment. — For colts, any flurry may restore the bone; but feed 
well, to eradicate the weakness. For horses, get into a shed, and, throw- 
ing a rope, one end of which has been fixed to the pastern, have the leg 
dragged forward while some one pushes the bone into its place. A man 
should be put to keep the bone in its situation for some hours. Give 
strengthening food, and do not use for six weeks subsequently. 

MALLENDERS AND SALLENDERS. 

Cause. — Neglect. 

Symptoms. — Scurf upon the seats of flexion ; mallenders at the back 
of the knee, and sallenders at the front of the hock. 

Treatment. — Cleanliness. Give the liquor arsenicalis drink, recom- 
mended for grease ; change the groom ; rub the parts with this ointment : 
Animal glycerin, one ounce; mercurial ointment, two drachms; pow- 
dered camphor, two drachms ; spermaceti, one ounce. If cracks appear, 
treat as though cracked heels were present. 

MANGE. 

Causes. — Starvation ; bad lodging and no grooming ; turning out to 
grass. 

Symptoms. — Scurf about the hairs of the mane ; the hair falls off in 
patches ; the skin is corrugated ; a few hairs remain upon the bare places, 
and these adhere firmly to the skin ; scrubbing the body against posts ; 
sores and crusts. To test its presence, scratch the roots of the mane 
and the horse will exhibit pleasure. 

Treatment. — Place the horse in the sunshine, or in a heated house, for 
one hour ; then whisk thoroughly, to remove scurf and scabs ; then rub 
in the following liniment : Animal glycerin, two parts ; oil of tar, two 
parts ; oil of turpentine, half a part ; oil of juniper, half a part. Mix. 
Leave on for two days ; wash ; anoint again ; wash ; anoint and wash 
once more, always leaving the liniment on for two clear days. 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 49I 



MEGRIMS. 

Cause. — Unknown. 

Symptoms. — The horse suddenly stops; shakes the head; strange 
stubbornness may be exhibited, followed by a desire to run into danger- 
ous places. Then ensues insensibility, accompanied by convulsions. 

Treatment. — Throw up on the first fit. Give a long rest, and try to 
amend the constitution. 

MELANOSIS. 

Cause. — Unknown. The disease only attacks gray horses which have 
become white. 

Symptoms. — It appears as a lump of uncertain form, size, and situa- 
tion. The swelling, if cut into, discloses a cartilaginous structure, dotted 
here and there with black spots. Do not use the knife unless the swell- 
ing impede the usefulness, or should be peculiarly well placed for opera- 
tion. Feel the tail. A pimple on the dock is an almost certain sign of 
melanosis, which disease affects the internal organ even more virulently 
than it attacks the external parts. As melanosis proceeds, all spirit 
departs, and the animal is at length destroyed as utterly useless. 

Treatment. — Let the tumor alone. Forbid all use of the curry- 
comb. Dress very long and very gently with the brush only. Twice a 
week anoint the body with animal glycerin, one part ; rose-water, two 
parts. 

NASAL GLEET. 

Causes. — Decayed molar tooth ; kicks from other horses ; injuries to 
the frontal bones. 

Symptoms. — Distortion of the face; partial enlargement and soften- 
ing of the facial bones ; irregular discharge of fetid pus from one nostril. 
The discharge is increased, or brought down by feeding off the ground, 
or by trotting fast. 

Treatment. — Surgical operation, with injection of a weak solution of 
chloride of zinc. Also give daily a ball composed of balsam of copaiba, 
half an ounce ; powdered cantharides, four grains ; cubebs, a sufficiency. 
If the foregoing should affect the urinary system, change it for half- 
drachm doses of extract of belladonna, dissolved in a wineglass of 
water. Give these every fourth day, and on such occasions repeat the 
belladonna every hour, until the appetite has been destroyed. 



492 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



NASAL POLYPUS. 



Symptoms. — An enlarged nostril; a copious mucous discharge; 
signs of suflfocation, if the free nostril be stopped; a cough generally 
forces down the growth. 

Treatment. — Surgical operation, which removes the tumor. 

NAVICULAR DISEASE. 

Causes. — Prog pressure, and not shoeing with a leathern sole. The 
unprotected foot treads on a rolling stone, and navicular disease is the 
result. 

Symptoms. — Acute lameness ; this disappears, but may come again 
in six or nine months. Acute lameness is then present for a longer time, 
while the subsequent soundness is more short. Thus the disease pro- 
gresses, till the horse is lame for life. The pain in one foot causes 
greater stress upon the sound leg, and from this cause both feet are 
ultimately affected. The foot is pointed in the stable. The bulk 
diminishes, while the hoof thickens and contracts. The horse, when 
trotting, takes short steps, and upon the toe, going groggily. 

Treatment. — Feed liberally upon crushed oats and old beans. Soak 
the foot every other night in hot water. Afterward bandage the leg, 
fix on tips, and having smeared the horn with glycerin, put on a sponge 
boot. Rest very long — six months in the first instance — and then give 
three months agricultural employment. In bad cases resort to neu- 
rotomy, but do so upon the second attack of lameness; because con- 
tinued disease disorganizes the internal structures of the hoof, and also 
occasions the sound foot to be attacked by navicular disease. 

NEPHRITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE KIDNEYS. 

Causes. — Bad provender, or niter in a mash, and long or fast work 
upon the following day. 

Symptom,s. — Hard, quick pulse ; short breathing ; pallid membranes ; 
looking at the loins ; depressed head ; roached back ; hind legs strad- 
dling ; scanty urine ; refusing to turn in the stall ; and crouching under 
pressure on the loins. Subsequently, pus is voided with the water. If 
the urine has a fetid odor, if blood be present, if the pulse grows 
quicker, if pressure gives no pain, and if the perspiration has a 
urinous smell, death is near at hand. To be certain of nephritis, insert 
the arm up the rectum and move the hand toward the kidneys. 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 493 

Treatment. — Rub mustard into the skin of the loins. Cover it over 
to prevent it becoming dry. Apply fresh sheepskins as soon as these 
can be procured. Inject warm linseed tea every hour. A ball com- 
posed of Croton farina, two scruples; extract of belladonna, half a 
drachm; treacle and linseed meal, a sufficiency, should be given imme- 
diately; one scruple of calomel; one drachm of opium should be 
sprinkled on the tongue every hour. A pail of linseed tea may be 
placed in the manger. Feed on linseed tea, and mind the oats — when 
allowed — are very good. While the pain is acute, give, thrice daily, a 
ball composed of extract of belladonna, half a drachm; crude opium, 
two drachms; honey and linseed meal, of each a sufficiency. When 
the pain is excessive, repeat the above ball every hour. Should the 
pulse increase and become wiry, a scruple of aconite should be thrown 
upon the tongue every half hour until the artery softens, or the animal 
becomes affected with the drug. 

No cure is to be expected ; the disease may be arrested, but the kid- 
ney must be left in an irritable state. 

OCCULT SPAVIN. 

Cause. — Treading on a stone. 

Symptoms. — Sudden lameness, which never departs, but in the end 
becomes very bad. The disease is always worse after work, and better 
after rest. The foot is without disease, and the leg is not hot or pain- 
ful; yet the lameness continues and gets worse. The leg is snatched 
up in the walk, and the foot is not turned outward. 

Treatment. — Get the horse into slings. Rub the front of the hock 
with an embrocation composed of compound soap liniment, sixteen 
ounces; tincture of cantharides, liquor ammonia and laudanum, of each 
two ounces. After the joint is embrocated, wrap it round with flannel, 
held upon the hock with elastic rings. Give three feeds of corn, a few 
old beans, and sweet hay daily. After the horse bears upon the dis- 
eased limb, allow the slings to remain for three months. Three months 
after it has left the slings, put to gentle work, but mind the labor is not 
in any way exhausting. The work must not be full till six months have 
elapsed. Keep the bowels regular with bran mashes and green-meat. 
If all treatment fail, cast the horse ; retract the injured limb ; make a 
small puncture, and inject one ounce of dilute spirits of wine, in which 
half a drachm of iodine has been dissolved. Place the horse in slings, 
and apply cold water to the hock. When the pulse is quiet, feed very 
liberally. • 



494 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



OPEN SYNOVIAL CAVITIES. 

Causes. — The pride of gentility, which apes what is not, and tries to 
pass ofif a horse with a ewe neck for an animal with a lofty crest. The 
quadruped, being in pain and constraint, necessarily trips, and cannot 
save itself from falling. Kicking in harness ; running away and being 
run into. 

Symptoms. — Air being admitted creates inflammation; inflammation 
causes constitutional irritability. Bursas are attended with least danger 
when punctured; sheaths of tendons are more dangerous; joints are 
by far the most serious. Judge which is opened by the extent of the 
wound and the quantity of synovia released. 

Treatment. — Exercise gentleness toward the Injured animal. Wash 
as was directed for broken knees. Examine if there be any sac or bag 
into which dirt could have entered. If one exists, place a large spatula 
under the knee ; then take a knife with a sharp point, but with its edge 
blunted the two posterior thirds of its length; guard the point with a 
lump of beeswax; introduce this into the sac and drive the point 
through the bottom of the bag. An opening will thereby be created, 
through which the pus and dirt will gravitate. If the probe enters the 
knee of the flexed leg, unopposed, three-quarters of an inch, push it no 
farther ; be satisfied the cavity is opened. 

OPEN SYNOVIAL JOINTS. 

Treatment. — Proceed in the first instance as for broken knees. Then 
give a drink composed of sulphuric ether and laudanum, of each one 
ounce ; water, half a pint ; look to the comfort. Should the eye rove, 
the breathing be hard, ears active, and the horse start at sounds, 
hourly repeat the drink before recommended,'^till these symptoms abate. 
Then place in a stall and allow four drinks and two pots of stout daily. 
Use the arnica lotion as for broken knees, during the first three and a 
half days. At the end of that time turn the horse gently round in the 
stall, and let it stand with its head toward the gangways. Place the 
slings before the horse and leave the animal to contemplate them for 
half an hour. Then, with extreme gentleness, fix them; but do not 
pull the cloth up to the abdomen. Leave a pail of water suspended 
from one pillar, and feed from a high trough, supported upon light legs. 
Let the horse be watched night and day for the remainder of the week. 
When the animal is at ease in the slings, these may be heightened till 
the cloth lightly touches, but not presses, against the belly. With the 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 495 

slings change to the chloride of zinc lotion, one scruple to the pint of 
water ; have this frequently applied during the day. It will coagulate 
the albumen and promote the healing of the wound. The albumen will 
accumulate as a large ball in front of the injury; do not touch it. 
Allow it to fall off. The cure is nearly perfect when it falls. When 
pressure can be endured, the slings may be removed ; though the heal- 
ing process should be confirmed before the animal is allowed to stand 
near anything against which it could strike the knee. 

OPERATIONS. 

Admit of no abbreviation; they should never be hastily undertaken; 
they should be only resorted to after time has been allowed for thought, 
and opportunity has been afforded for more than one perusal of the 
directions detailed in this book. 



OSSIFIED CARTILAGES. 

iJause. — Battering the foot upon hard roads. 

Symptoms. — Of little consequence in heavy horses unless accompanied 
with ring-bone. The disease causes lameness in light horses used for 
fast work. 

Treatment. — Rest; liberal food ; and small blisters to the foot imme- 
diately above the sides of the hoof. 

OVERREACH. 

Cause. — When a good stepper is very tired, this accident sometimes 
happens — the coronet of the fore foot upon the outer side being severely 
wounded by the inside of the hind shoe. 

Symptom. — A severe wound and a large slough, probably followed by 
a false quarter. 

Treatment. — Feed liberally, and bathe the injury thrice daily with the 
chloride of zinc lotion, one grain to the ounce of water. 

PARROT-MOUTH. 

Cause. — Natural malformation. 

Symptoms. — Projecting upper teeth; an inability to graze or to clean 
out the manger. 



496 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



PARTIAL PARALYSIS. 

Cause. — Yiolent exertion. 

Symptom. — One hind leg gets in the way of the other, and threatens 
to throw the animal down. 

Treatment. — A loose box ; warm clothing ; good grooming ; warmth 
to loins ; regulate the bowels with mashes and green-meat ; absolute rest. 
Give the following ball night and morning : Strychnia, half a grain, 
(gradually work this medicine up to one grain and a half;) iodide of 
iron, one grain ; quassia powder aud treacle, a sufficiency 

PHLEBITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE VEIN. 

Cause. — Motion. Bleeding in the neck and turning out to grass ; or 
from either of the limbs, and then forcing the animal to walk. 

Symptoms. — The earliest indication is a separation of the lips of the 
wound and the presence of a small quantity of thin discharge. A small 
swelling then takes place, and the vein hardens above the puncture. 
Then abscesses form along the course of the vessel. These mature, 
burst, send forth a contaminated pus. The abscesses are united by 
sinuses. If these signs are neglected, a dark discharge resembling de- 
cayed blood issues from the numerous wounds and soils the neck. 
Dullness ensues ; the brain becomes affected ; and the horse perishes 
phrenitic. 

Treatment. — Remove the pin and apply a blister. Another may be 
required. In bad cases, blister must follow blister, but not be rubbed 
in. A little oil of cantharides should be put over the sore with a paste- 
brush. Place in a loose box and litter with tan ; feed on slops, which 
require no mastication. Let the horse remain there and be so fed for 
six weeks subsequent to the cessation of all treatment. Then give a 
little exercise at a slow pace, gradually augmented. At the end of three 
months the horse may do slow work. But the horse should not wear a 
collar or go into the shafts before the expiration of six months. 

PHRENITIS. 

Cause. — Unknown. 

Symptom. — Heaviness, succeeded by fury in excess, but without any 
indication of malice. 

Treatment. — Bleed from both jugulars till the animal drops. Then 
pin up, and give a purgative of double strength. Follow this with 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 49t 

another blood-letting, if necessary, and scruple doses of tobacco ; half- 
drachm doses of aconite root ; or drachm doses of digitalis — whichever 
is soonest obtained. But whichever is procured must be infused in a 
pint of boiling water, and, when cool and strained, it ought to be given 
every half hour till the animal becomes quiet. But the probable result 
is by no means cheering, even if death is by these means avoided. 

PLEURISY. 

Causes. — Over-exertion ; blows ; injuries ; cold. 

Symptoms. — These are quickly developed. The pulse strikes the 
finger ; pain continuous ; agony never ceases ; horse does not feed. 
Body hot ; feet cold ; partial perspirations. Muscles corrugated in 
places ; cough, when present, suppressed and dry ; auscultation detects 
a grating sound and a dull murmur at the chest. Pressure between the 
ribs produces great pain or makes the animal resentful. The head is 
turned very often toward the side ; the fore foot paws ; the breathing is 
short and jerking. 

Treatment. — Should be active. Bleed, to ease the horse ; place in a 
loose box ; bandage the legs ; leave the body unclothed. Give, every 
quarter of an hour, a scruple of tincture of aconite in a wineglass of 
warm water. When pulse has softened, give, every second hour, sulphuric 
ether and laudanum, of each one ounce ; water, half a pint. Do not 
bleed a second time. "When the pulse and pain are amended, introduce 
the steaming apparatus. Do nothing for the bowels. Place luke-warm 
water within easy reach of the head, and give nothing more while the 
disease rages. When the disease departs, return with caution to full 
food. After the affection subsides, blister throat and chest. If the 
horse is costive, administer enemas ; or a bundle of cut grass may be 
presented with the other food. 

PNEUMONIA. 

Causes. — Fat ; irregular work ; and sudden exertion. 

Symptoms. — Breathing labored ; oppressed pulse ; partial conscious- 
ness ; giddiness. Standing with outstretched legs ; head and ears de- 
jected ; coat rough ; extremities and body cold ; visible membranes 
discolored ; bowels costive ; feeling half dead ; and general oppression. 

Treatment. — Bleed but once ; take only blood sufficient to restore 
consciousness ; do not attempt to obtain blood, if the liquid flows black 
and thick. Place in a loose box strown with damp tan ; take off the 
shoes ; place water within easy reach ; no food. If winter, clothe ; then 

32 



498 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 

introduce steam ; when the steam is abundant, take off the clothes. Give 
solution of aconite root, half an ounce ; sulphuric ether, two ounces ; 
extract of belladonna, (rubbed down with half a pint of water,) one 
drachm. Repeat the drink three times each day. When the pulse 
improves, withdraw the aconite ; when the breathing amends, abstract 
the belladonna; or increase either as pulse or breathing becomes worse. 
Allow only hay tea, with a little oatmeal in it, until the disease abates. 
On amendment, cautiously increase the food. Lying down is the first 
sign of improvement. Do not disturb the animal : it must require rest, 
having stood throughout the attack. 

POLL EVIL. 

Causes. — Hanging back in the halter ; hitting the poll against the 
beam of the stable door ; blows on the head ; and any external injury. 

Symptoms. — The nose is protruded and the head kept as motion- 
less as possible ; the animal hangs back when it is feeding from the 
manger. Pressure or enforced motion excites resistance. Swelling: 
the swelling bursts in several places, from which exude a foul, fistulous 
discharge. Pus has been secreted ; confinement has caused it to decay ; 
while motion and fascia have occasioned it to burrow. 

Treatment. — Paint the part lightly with tincture of cantharides, or 
acetate of cantharides. Do this daily till vesication is produced; then 
stop. When the swelling enlarges, open the prominent or soft places. 
Allow the pus to issue ; then cut down on the wound till the seat of the 
disease is gained. Use a proper knife, and include as many pipes as 
possible in one clean cut. All others should join this. Empty out all 
concrete matter. Wash the cavity with cold water. Excise all loose 
pieces of tendon and all unhealthy flesh. Moisten the sore with the 
chloride of zinc lotion, one grain to the ounce, and cover the wound 
with a cloth dipped in the solution of tar. If the disease has burst, 
still include the pipes in one smooth incision; clean out the concrete 
pus, and treat as has been directed. Spare the ligament which lies 
under the mane ; and work in a breast-strap after recovery. 

PRICK OF THE SOLE. 

Cause. — Generally the smith's carelessness when shoeing the horse. 

Symptom. — Great lameness. 

Treatment. — Withdraw the nails of the shoe. If one is wet, cut 
down on that hole until the sensitive sole is exposed. If not very 
lame, treat with lotion of chloride of zinc, one grain to the ounce of 
water. If very lame, treat as if the injury were a suppurating corn. 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 499 



PRURIGO. 



Cause. — Heat of body. 

Symptom. — Itchiness. The horse rubs oflF hair; but never exposes a 
dry, corrugated surface. 

Treatment. — Take away some hay. Give two bundles of grass per 
day. Allow two bran mashes each day till the bowels are open. Apply 
either of the following washes : Animal glycerin, one part ; rose-water, 
two parts. Or, sulphuric acid, one part; water, ten parts. Or, acetic 
acid, one part ; water, seven parts. Drink : Liquor arsenicalis, one 
ounce; tincture of muriate of iron, one ounce and a half; water, one 
pint — half a pint to be given every night. Withdraw the drink a week 
after the disease has disappeared. Allow a pot of porter and an extra 
feed of oats each day. 

PUMICE FOOT. 

Cause. — An animal reared on marshy land, having high action, bat- 
ters the feet upon London stones. 

Symptoms. — Bulging sole; weak crust; strong bars, and good frog. 

Treatment. — The only relief possible is afforded by a bar shoe of the 
dish kind, and a leathern sole. The constant use of equal parts of 
animal glycerin and tar is also beneficial to the hoof. 

PURPURA HEMORRHAGICA. 

Cause. — Unknown. Universal congestion. 

Symptoms. — The attack is sudden. The body, head, and limbs en- 
large ; consciousness is partially lost. The horse stands, and the breath- 
ing is quickened. Through the skin there exudes serum with blood. 
The nostrils and lips enlarge, and part of the swollen tongue protrudes 
from the mouth. The appetite is not quite lost, although deglutition is 
difficult. Thirst is great. 

Treatment. — Bleed till the animal appears relieved. A second vene- 
section may be demanded, but it should be adopted with caution. Give 
half an ounce of chloroform in a pint of linseed oil, in the first stage. 
Repeat the dose in half an hour. No amendment following, give two 
ounces of sulphuric ether in one pint of cold water. In half an hour 
repeat the dose if necessary. Perform tracheotomy to ease the breath- 
ing. Incise the protruding tongue. Squeeze out the fluid and return 
the organ to the mouth. Should the skin slough, bathe the part with 
solution of chloride of zinc, one grain to the ounce of water. 



600 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



QUITTOR. 



Causes. — Confined pus from suppurating corn; or prick of the sole; 
matter results, and this issues at the coronet. Or from injury to the 
coronet, generating pus, and this burrowing downward, as it cannot 
pierce the coronary substance. The secretion may also penetrate the 
cartilage, and thus establish sinuses in almost every possible direction. 

Symptoms. — The horse is very lame. The animal is easier after the 
quittor has burst. Probe for the sinuses. If, after the superficial sinuses 
are treated, among the creamy pus there should appear a dark speck of 
albuminous fluid, make sure of another sinus, probably working toward 
the central structures of the foot. 

RHEUMATISM. 

Cause. — Generally follows other disorders, as influenza, chest aS"ec- 
tions, and most acute diseases. Yery rarely does it appear without a 
forerunner. 

Symptoms. — Swelling of particular parts, generally the limbs ; heat 
and acute lameness. The disorder is apt to fly about the body. The 
synovia is always increased when the joints are attacked. The pulse 
and breathing are both disturbed by agony. 

Treatment. — Lead into a loose box; fill the place with steam. (See 
page 313.) Get ready the slings; put the belly-piece under the horse, 
but do not pull it up so as to lift the legs from the ground. Keep the 
steam up for one hour. Then have several men with cloths ready to 
wipe the animal dry ; mind they are perfectly silent. Next rub into the 
diseased parts the following : Compound soap liniment, sixteen ounces; 
tincture of cantharides, liquor ammonia, and laudanum, of each two 
ounces. Afterward incase the limbs in flannel. (See page 314.) Then 
give a bolus composed of powdered colchicura, two drachms; iodide of 
potassium, one drachm ; simple mass, a sufliciency. Should the attack 
succeed upon other diseases, the diet must be supporting, everything 
being softened by heat and water. Next morning repeat the steaming, 
and give calomel, a scruple; opium, two drachms. At night steam 
again, and repeat the first bolus. Should the horse be fat, withdraw 
all corn, if the strength can do without it. 

RING-BONE. 

Cause. — Dragging heavy loads up steep hills. 

Symptoms, — A roughness of hair on the pastern and a bulging forth 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 501 

of the hoof. A want of power to flex the pastern. An inability to 
bring the sole to the ground only upon an even surface. Loss of power 
and injury to utility. 

Treatment. — In the first stage apply poultices, with one drachm of 
camphor and of opium. Afterward rub with iodide of lead, one ounce ; 
simple ointment, eight ounces. Continue treatment for a fortnight after 
all active symptoms have subsided, and allow liberal food and rest; work 
gently when labor is resumed. 

KING-WORM. 

Symptoms. — Hair falls off in patches, exposing a scurfy skin. The 
scurf congregates on the bare place about the circumference, which is 
apt to ulcerate. 

Treatment. — Be very clean. Wash night and morning, and afterward 
apply the following ointment: Animal glycerin, one ounce; spermaceti, 
one ounce ; iodide of lead, two drachms. Many other things are popular. 
For a detailed list of these, see the body of the book. A drink is like- 
wise of use when employed with the ointment. Liquor arsenicalis, one 
ounce ; tincture of muriate of iron, one ounce and a half ; water, one 
quart. Mix, and give every night half a pint for a dose. Should the 
ulceration prove obstinate, apply permanganate of potash, half an ounce ; 
water, three ounces. Or, chloride of zinc, two scruples ; water, one 
pint. Moisten the parts with a soft brush six times daily. Feed well, 
and do not work for one month. 

ROARING. 

Causes. — The bearing-rein; the folly of fashion. 
Symptom. — A noise made at each inspiration. 

Treatment. — No remedy. The cabman's pad is the only alleviation : 
that conceals and does not cure the disease. 

RUPTURE, OR STRICTURE OF THE (ESOPHAGUS. 

Cause. — The use of the butt-end of a carter's whip, which either 
rends the lining membrane of or ruptures the gullet. 

Symptom of Rupture. — The body becomes distended with gas, and 
death ensues. Of Rent Membrane. — This induces a disinclination to 
feed, as the first symptom. A stricture is formed. Excessive hunger. 
Distention of the tube. A large sac is developed out of the stretched 
membrane above the stricture. Then, after feeding, the animal fixes the 



502 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 

neck, and returns the masticated food through the mouth and nostrils. 
Accompanying loss of condition and failure of strength. 

Treatment. — Feed on prepared soft food : though the horse is gener- 
ally not worth its ordinary keep at the stage when this is required. 

SANDCRACK, 

Causes. — Bad health, provoking imperfect secretion. Treading for 
any length of time upon a very dry soil. 

Symptoms. — Quarter crack occurs on light horses upon the inner side 
of the hoof. It usually commences at the coronet, goes down the foot, 
and reaches to the laminae. Toe crack happens in heavy wheelers, and 
is caused by digging the toe into the ground when dragging a load up 
hill. From the sensitive laminae, when exposed, fungoid granulations 
sometimes sprout, which, being pinched, produce excessive pain and 
acute lameness. 

Treatment. — Always pare out the crack, so as to convert it into a 
groove. When the crack is partial, draw a line with a heated iron above 
and below the fissure. If granulations have sprouted, cleanse the wound 
with chloride of zinc lotion, one grain to the ounce of water, and then 
cut them off. Afterward place the foot in a poultice. Subsequently 
pare down the edges of the crack while the horn is soft. Use the lotion 
frequently. Draw lines from the coronet to the crack, so as to cut off 
communication between the fissure and the newly-secreted horn. Shoe 
with a bar shoe, having the seat of crack well eased off and also a clip 
on either side. If the horse must work, lay a piece of tow saturated 
with the lotion into the crack : bind the hoof tightly with wax-end. Tie 
over all a strip of cloth, and give this a coating of tar. When the horse 
returns, inspect the part. Wash out any grit with the chloride of zinc 
lotion. Feed liberally on prepared food. 

SCALD MOUTH. 

Cause. — Powerful medicine, which burns the lining membrane of the 
mouth. 

Symptom. — A dribbling of saliva, with constant motion and repeated 
smacking of the lips. 

Treatment. — Give soft food, and use the wash recommended for 
aphtha. 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 503 



SEEDY TOE. 

Cause. — Weakness, inducing an imperfept secretion of horu. 

Symptom. — A separation between the crust of the coronet and the 
soft horn of the laminae, commencing at the toe of the foot. 

Treatment. — Remove the shoe. Probe the fissure, which will be ex- 
posed. Cut away all the separated crust. Throw up until the removed 
portion has grown again. Feed liberally. 

SIMPLE OPHTHALMIA. 

Causes. — Slashing with the whip over the head ; hay-seeds falling into 
the eyes ; horses biting at each other in play ; blows, etc. 

Symptoms. — Tears ; closed eyelid ; the ball of the eye becomes en- 
tirely or partially white. 

Treatment. — Remove any foreign body; fasten a cloth across the 
forehead ; moisten it with a decoction of poppy-heads to which some 
tincture of arnica has been added. If a small abscess should appear on 
the surface of the eye, open it, and bathe with chloride of zinc lotion. 
Should inflammation be excessive, puncture eye vein, and place some 
favorite food on the ground. 

SITFAST. 

Causes. — 111 health ; badly-fitting saddle ; too energetic a rider ; loose 
girths ; ruck in the saddle-cloth. 

Symptom. — Like a corn on the human foot, but the hard, bare patch 
is surrounded by a circle of ulceration. 

Treatment. — The knife should remove the thickened skin. Chloride 
of zinc, one grain ; water, one ounce, to the wound. Attend to the 
bowels. Feed liberally; exercise well; and give, night and morning, 
liquor arsenicalis, half an ounce ; tincture of muriate of iron, three- 
quarters of an ounce ; water, one pint. Mix, and give. 

SORE THROAT. 

Causes. — In colts, change from freedom to work, from the field to the 
stable, is the cause. Sore throat, however, may be caused by close sta- 
bles, or be an indication of some greater disease. 

Symptoms. — Perpetual deglutition of saliva ; want of appetite ; ina- 
bility to swallow a draught of liquid — the fluid returning partly by the 
nostrils, and each gulp being accompanied with an audible effort. 



504 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 

Treatment. — Forbear all work ; clothe warmly ; house in a large, 
well-littered, loose box. Gruel for drink ; green-meat, with three feeds 
of bruised and scalded oats, also beans, daily. If the bowels are obsti- 
nate, administer a drink composed of solution of aloes, four ounces ; 
essence of anise seed, half an ounce ; water, one pint. Should the throat 
not amend, dissolve half an ounce of extract of belladonna in a gallon 
of water ; hold up the head : pour half a pint of this preparation into 
the mouth, and in thirty seconds let the head down ; do this six or eight 
times daily. No improvement being observed, try permanganate of pot- 
ash, half a pint ; water, one gallon : to be used as directed in the pre- 
vious recipe. Still no change being remarked, prepare chloride of zinc, 
three drachms ; extract of belladonna, half an ounce ; tincture of capsi'* 
cums, two drachms ; water, one gallon. 

All being useless, give two pots of stout daily, and blister the throat. 

No alteration ensuing, cast the horse, and mop out the fauces with a 
sponge which is wet with nitrate of silver, five grains ; water, one ounce. 
Give a ball daily composed of oak-bark and treacle. 

If none of these measures succeed, the throat must be complicated 
with some other disease. 



SPASM OF THE DIAPHRAGM. 

Cause. — Imprudently riding too far and too fast. 

Symptom. — Distress, and a strange noise heard from the center of the 
horse. 

Treatment. — Pull up; cover the horse's body; lead to the nearest 
stable. Give as soon as possible a drink composed of sulphuric ether, 
two ounces ; laudanum, one ounce ; tincture of camphor, half an ounce ; 
cold water or gruel, one pint. Give four drinks, one every quarter of 
an hour ; then another four, one every half hour, and then at longer 
intervals as the animal recovers. When first brought in, procure five 
steady and quiet men ; give a bandage each to four of them, and order 
them silently to bandage the legs ; give a basin and sponge to the other, 
and bid him sponge the openings to the body. This done, and sweat 
and dirt removed, clothe perfectly after the skin is quite dry. 

SPASM OF THE URETHRA. 

Cause. — Acridity in the food or water. 

Symptoms. — Small and violent emissions ; straddling gait. Roached 
back ; pain ; total suppression of urine. 

Treatment. — Insert the arm up the rectum, and feel the gorged blad- 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 505 

der. Give, by the mouth, four ounce doses of sulphuric ether and of 
laudanum mixed with a quart of cold water, and, as injection, mixed 
with three pints of cold water. Repeat these medicines every quarter 
of an hour until relieved. If no physic be at hand, open both jugular 
veins, and allow the blood to flow until the horse falls. Should not the 
urine then flow forth, insert the arm and press upon the bladder. 



SPASMODIC COLIC— FRET— GRIPES. 

Causes. — Fast driving ; change of water ; change of food ; getting 
wet ; fatiguing journeys ; aloes ; and often no cause can be traced. 

Symptoms. 1st Stage. — Horse is feeding; becomes uneasy; ceases 
eating ; hind foot is raised to strike the belly ; fore foot paws the pave- 
ment ; the nose is turned toward the flank, and an attack of fret is rec- 
ognized. 2d Stage. — Alternate ease and fits of pain ; the exemptions 
grow shorter as the attacks become longer ; the horse crouches ; turns 
round ; then becomes erect ; pawing, etc. follow ; a morbid fire now 
lights up the eyes. Sd Stage. — Pains lengthen ; action grows more wild ; 
often one foot stamps on the ground ; does not feed, but stares at the 
abdomen ; at last, without warning, leaps up and falls violently on the 
floor ; seems relieved ; rolls about till one leg rests against the wall ; 
should no assistance be now alforded, the worst consequences may be 
anticipated. 

Treatment. — Place in a loose box, guarded by trusses of straw ranged 
against the walls. Give one ounce each of sulphuric ether and of laud- 
anum in a pint of cold water, and repeat the dose every ten minutes if 
the symptoms do not abate. If no improvement be observed, double 
the active agents, and at the periods stated persevere with the medicine. 
A pint of turpentine, dissolved in a quart of solution of soap, as an 
enema, has done good. 'No amendment ensuing, dilute some strong 
liquor ammonia with six times its bulk of water, and, saturating a cloth 
with. the fluid, hold it by means of a horse-rug close to the abdomen. It 
is a blister ; but its action must be watched or it may dissolve the skin. 
If, after all, the symptoms continue, there must be more than simple 
colic to contend with. 

SPAVIN. 

Cause. — Hard work. 

Symptom. — Any bony enlargement upon the lower and inner side of 
the hock. Prevents the leg being flexed. Hinders the hoof from being 
turned outward. Causes the front of tlie shoe to be worn and the toe 
of the hoof to be rendered blunt by dragging the foot along the ground. 



506 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 

Leaves the stable limping ; returns bettered by exercise. Sickle hocks, 
or cow hocks, are said to be most subject. 

Treatment. — View the suspected joint from before, from behind, and 
from either side. Afterward feel the hock. Any enlargement upon the 
seat of disease, to be felt or seen, is a spavin. Feed liberally, and rest 
in a stall. When the part is hot and tender, rub it with belladonna and 
opium, one ounce of each to an ounce of water. Apply a poultice. Or 
put opium and camphor on the poultice. Or rub the spavin with equal 
parts of chloroform and camphorated oil. The heat and pain being 
relieved, apply the following, with friction : Iodide of lead, one ounce ; 
simple ointment, eight ounces. 



SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA. 

Cause. — The fumes of impure stables. 

Symptoms. — A swollen eyelid ; tears ; a hard pulse ; sharp breathing ; 
a staring coat ; a clammy mouth ; the nasal membrane is inflamed or 
leaden colored ; the lid can only be raised when in shadow. The ball 
of eye reddened from the circumference ; the pupil closed ; the iris lighter 
than is natural. The disease may change from eye to eye ; the duration 
of any visitation is very uncertain ; the attacks may be repeated, and 
end in the loss of one or both eyes. If one eye only is lost, the remain- 
ing eye generally strengthens. 

Treatment. — Remove from the stable and place in a dark shed. Open 
the eye vein, and puncture the lid if needed ; put a cloth saturated with 
cold water over both eyes. If the horse is poor, feed well ; if fat, sup- 
port, but do not cram ; if in condition, lower the food. Sustain upon a 
diet which requires no mastication. Give the following ball twice daily: 
Powdered colchicum, two drachms ; iodide of iron, one drachm ; calo- 
mel, one scruple ; make up with extract of gentian. So soon as the ball 
affects the system, change it for liquor arsenicalis, three ounces ; muri- 
ated tincture of iron, five ounces. Give half an ounce in a tumbler of 
water twice daily. See the stable is rendered pure before the horse 
returns to it. 

SPLINT. 

Causes — Early and hard work ; blows, kicks, etc. 

Symptom. — Any swelling upon the inner and lower part of the knee 
of the fore leg, or any enlargement upon the shin-bone of either limb. 
On the knee they are important, as they extend high up. On the shin 
they are to be dreaded, as they interfere with the movements of the ten ■ 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 507 

dons. All are painful when growing, and in that state generally cause 
lameness. 

Treatment. — Feel down the leg. Any heat, tenderness, or enlarge- 
ment is proof of a splint. If, on the trot, one leg is not fully flexed, 
or the horse " dishes" with it, it confirms the opinion. Time and liberal 
food are the best means of perfecting them. When they are painful, 
poultice, having sprinkled on the surface of the application one drachm 
each of opium and of camphor. Or rub the place with one drachm of 
chloroform and two drachms of camphorated oil. Periosteotomy (see 
Operations) is sometimes of service. When a splint interferes with a 
tendon, the only chance of cure is to open the skin and to cut off the 
splint, afterward treating the wound with a lotion composed of chloride 
of zinc, one grain ; water, one ounce. To check the growth of a splint, 
rub it well and frequently with iodide of lead, one ounce ; simple oint- 
ment, eight ounces. 

SPRAIN OF THE BACK SINEWS. 

Cause. — Cart-work upon a hilly country. 
Symptom. — Gradual heightening of the hind heel. 
Treatment. — The only possible relief is afforded by an operation — 
"division of the tendons." 

STAGGERS. 

Sleepy Staggers and Mad Staggers are only different stages of the 

same disorder. 

Cause. — Over-gorging. 

Symptoms. — Excessive thirst ; dullness or sleepiness ; snoring ; press- 
ing the head against a wall. Some animals perish in this state ; others 
commence trotting without taking the head from the wall, and such gen- 
erally die, but sometimes recover. Other horses quit the sleepy state ; 
the eyes brighten ; the breath becomes quick. Such animals exhibit the 
greatest possible violence, but without the slightest desire for mischief. 

Treatment. — Allow no water. Give a quart of oil. Six hours after- 
ward give another quart of oil, with twenty drops of croton oil in it, 
should no improvement be noticed. In another six hours, no amendment 
being exhibited, give another quart of oil, with thirty drops of croton 
oil in it. After a further six hours, repeat the first dose, and administer 
the succeeding doses, at the intervals already stated, until the appear- 
ance changing indicates that the body has been relieved. 

For the full development of the mad stage no remedies are of the 
slightest avail. 



508 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



STRAIN OF THE FLEXOR TENDONS. 



Cause. — Hard work on uneven ground, or the rider punishing a horse 
with the snaffle and the spurs. 

Symptoms. — The animal goes oddly, not lame. The defective action 
will disappear upon rest, but stiflFness is aggravated by subsequent labor. 
Any attempt to work the horse sound induces incurable lameness or 
contraction of the tendons. 

Treatment. — Allow several hours to elapse before any attempt is made 
to discover the disease. A small swelling, hot, soft, and sensitive, may 
then appear. Bind round it a linen bandage, and keep it wet with cold 
water. Have men to sit up bathing this for the three first nights ; after- 
ward apply moisture only by day. Throw up the horse. Give four 
drachms of aloes. Do not turn out, but allow two feeds of corn each 
day. Keep in a stall, and do not put to work till more than recovered. 

STRANGLES. 

Cause. — Something requiring to be cast from the system, so as to suit 
the young body to a sudden change. 

Symptoms. — A slight general disturbance, which, however, remains. 
The colt continues sickly. After a day or two, the neck becomes stiff, 
and a swelling appears between the jaws. The enlargement at first is 
hard, hot, and tender. A discharge from the nose comes on. The 
symptoms increase; the throat becomes sore. Breathing is oppressed; 
coat stares; appetite is lost; tumor softens, and, being opened, the 
animal speedily recovers. 

Treatment. — Neither purge nor bleed. Give all the nourishment that 
can be swallowed. If all food is rejected, whiten the water, and a little 
cut grass may tempt the colt. Corn, ground and scalded, may be offered, 
a little at a time from the hand. No grooming; light clothing; ample 
bed; door and window of loose box should be open. Gently stimulate 
the throat with the following: Spirits of turpentine, two parts; lauda- 
num, one part; spirits of camphor, one part. Apply with a paste- 
brush morning, noon, and night, until the throat is sore. After every 
application, take three pieces of flannel, place these over the part, and 
bind on with an eight-tailed bandage. So soon as the tumor points, 
apply the twitch, and have one fore leg held up. Then open the swell- 
ing with an abscess knife. It may be necessary to make another inci- 
sion. There are other occasional varieties of strangles, for which 
consult the substance of the work, pages 272, 2T3. 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 509 



STRINGHALT. 

Cause. — Over-exertion. 

Symptom. — Raising both hind legs, one after the other, previous to 
starting. 

Treatment. — None is possible. 

SURFEIT. 

Cause. — Heat of body. 

Symptom. — An eruption of round, blunt, and numerous spots. 

Treatment. — If the pulse is not aflfected, the symptom may disappear 
in a few hours. Look to the food. Abstract eight pounds of hay, and 
allow two bundles of cut grass per day. Even increase the oats, but 
with each feed give a handful of old crushed beans. The following 
drink will be of service : Liquor arsenicalis, one ounce ; tincture of 
muriate of iron, one ounce and a half; water, one quart. Mix. Give 
daily, one pint for a dose. 

Symptom. — If a young horse has been neglected through the winter, 
the surfeit lumps do not disappear. An exudation escapes ; the consti- 
tution is involved, and the disease is apt to settle upon the lungs. 

Treatment. — Do not take out. Keep the stable aired, and attend to 
cleanliness. Feed as previously directed, and allow bran mashes when 
the bowels are constipated. Administer the drink recommended above, 
night and morning. Clothe warmly; remove from a stall to a loose 
box. Should the pulse suddenly sink, allow two pots of stout each day. 
If the appetite fail, give gruel instead of water, and present a few cut 
carrots from the hand. The shortest of these cases occupy a fortnight. 

SWOLLEN LEGS. 

Cause. — Debility. 

Treatment. — Place in a loose box. No hay for some weeks. Damp 
the corn, and sprinkle a handful of ground oak-bark on each feed. At- 
tend to exercise. If the legs continue to enlarge, hand-rub them well 
and long. 

TEETH. 

Cause. — A thickening of the membrane sometimes conceals the upper 
tushes and provokes constitutional symptoms. 
Treatment. — Lance the membrane. 
Symptoms of Toothache. — Head carried on one side, or pressed 



510 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 

against the wall; saliva dribbles from the lips; quidding or partial 
mastication of the food, and allowing the morsel to fall from the mouth. 
Appetite capricious ; sometimes spirit is displayed — then the horse is 
equally dejected. The tooth dies; the opposing tooth grows long. 
The opposite teeth become very sharp, from the horse masticating only 
on one side. The long tooth presses upon the gum and provokes nasal 
gleet. 

Treatment. — Chisel off projecting tooth ; file down the sharp edges 
of the opposite teeth, and look to the mouth frequently. 

TETANUS. 

Causes. — Cold rain; draughts of air; too much light; wounds. 

Symptoms. — The wound often dries up. The horse grows fidgety. 
Upon lifting up the head, "the haw" projects over the eye. The tail is 
raised; the ears are pricked; the head is elevated; the limbs are stiff; 
the body feels hard. Any excitement may call up a fearful spasm. 

Treatment. — Give a double dose of purgative medicine. Place in 
solitude and in quiet. Put a pailful of gruel and a thin mash within 
easy reach of the head. Let nobody excepting the favorite groom 
approach the place ; and allow him to enter it only once a day. 

THOROUGH-PIN. 

« 

Cause. — Excessive labor. 

Symptom. — A round tumor going right through the leg, and appear- 
ing anterior to the point of the hock. It is nearly always connected 
with bog spavin. 

Treatment. — Never attack thorough-pin and bog spavin at the same 
time. Relieve the thorough-pin first by means of rags, cork, and an 
India-rubber bandage, cut so as not to press on the bog spavin. If the 
corks occasion constitutional symptoms, use a truss to press upon the 
thorough-pin, which, being destroyed, apply a perfect bandage and 
wetted cloths to the bog spavin. When attempting to cure bog spavin, 
however, continue the remedy to the thorough-pin, or the cure of one 
affection may reproduce the other. 

THRUSH. 

Cause. — Standing in filth, when it appears in the hind feet ; navicular 
disease, when seen in contracted feet. 

Symptoms. — A foul discharge running from the cleft of the frog 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 511 

This decomposes the horn. The surface of the frog becomes ragged, 
and the interior converted into a white powder. The affection does not 
generally lame ; but should the horse tread on a rolling stone, it may fall 
as though it were shot. 

Treatment. — Pare away the frog till only sound horn remains, or 
until the flesh is exposed. Then tack on the shoe and return to a clean 
stall. Apply the chloride of zinc lotion — three grains to the ounce of 
water — to the cleft of the frog by means of some tow, wrapped round a 
small bit of stick. When the stench has ceased, a little liquor of lead 
will perfect the cure. For contracted feet pare the frog, and every 
morning dress once with the chloride of zinc lotion ; but do not strive 
to stop the thrush. 

TREAD. 

Cause. — Fatigue and overweight. 

Symptom. — In light horses it occurs toward the end of a long jour- 
ney. The hind foot is not removed when the fore foot is put to the 
ground. The end of the fore shoe consequently tears off a portion of 
the coronet from the hind foot. In cart-horses, after the horse is 
fatigued, the load has to be taken down a steep hill; the animal, being 
in the shafts, rocks to and fro; the legs cross, and the calkin of one 
shoe wounds the coronet of the opposite hoof. 

Treatvient. — Bathe the sore with the chloride of zinc lotion, one 
grain to the ounce of water. Continue to do this thrice daily ; feed 
liberally. A slough will take place, and the animal be well in about a 
month ; the only danger being the after-result of a false quarter. 

TUMORS. 

These are so various and of such different natures, that in every case 
a surgeon should be consulted. 

WARTS. 

Cause. — Unkno wn. 

Symptom. — There are three kinds of warts. 1st. Some are contained 
in a cuticular sac, and, upon this being divided, shell out. 2d. The 
second are cartilaginous and vascular. These grow to some size, and 
are rough on the surface. They are apt to ulcerate. 3d. Consists of 
a cuticular case, inclosing a soft granular substance. 

Treatment. — When of the first kind, slit up, and squeeze them out. 
The second kind, excise and apply a heated iron to stop the bleeding. 
The third kind are better let alone. 



512 ' ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



WATER FARCY. 



Cause. — Overwork and coarse feed, succeeded by periods of stagna- 
tion. It is the warning that true farcy threatens the stable. 

Symptoms. — Load less and work less. 

Treatment. — Improve the diet, and never allow the horse to remain a 
day in the stable without exercise. Saturate the swollen limb with cold 
water every morning, and have it afterward thoroughly hand-rubbed 
until it is perfectly dry. Should lameness remain after the fii'st day, a 
few punctures may be made into the limb, but only through the skin. 
Give the following ball every morning: Iodide of iron, one drachm; 
powdered cantharides, two grains; powdered arsenic, one grain; 
Cayenne pepper, one scruple; sulphate of iron, one drachm; treacle 
and linseed meal, a sufficiency. Mix. The delay even of a day in 
treatment is attended with danger in this disease. 

WIND-GALLS. 

Cause. — Hard work. 

Symptoms. — Small enlargements, generally upon the hind legs and 
below the hocks ; no lameness ; two wind-galls appear above the pastern, 
one beneath that joint; after extraordinary labor, the round swellings 
disappear and the course of the flexor tendons becomes puffy. Some- 
times continued irritatiq;i will cause the wind-galls to greatly enlarge, 
and ultimately provokes their case to change into bone. During these 
changes the horse is very lame. 

Treatment. — Fold pieces of rags; wet them; put these on the wind- 
galls; place on the rags pieces of cork, and over the cork lace on an 
India-rubber bandage. Mind this bandage is constantly worn, save 
when ridden or driven by the proprietor. Rest is the only alleviation 
foT the change of structure. 

WINDY COLIC. 

Causes. — Gorging on green food; but more commonly impaired 
digestion, consequent upon severe labor and old age. 

Symptoms. — Uneasiness; pendulous head; cessation of feeding. 
Breathing laborious; fidgets; rocking the body; enlargement of the 
belly ; pawing. Standing in one place ; sleepy eye ; heavy pulse ; 
flatulence; the abdomen greatly enlarged. Breathing very fast; pulse 
very feeble ; blindness ; the animal walks round and round till it falls 
and dies. 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 513 

Treatment. — Tliree balls of sulphuret of ammonia, two drachms, 
with extract of gentian and powdered quassia, of each a sufficiency, 
may be given, one every half hour. Next, one ounce of chloride of 
potash, dissolved in a pint of cold water, and mingled with sulphuric 
ether, two ounces, should be horned down. In an hour's time, two 
ounces each of sulphuric ether and of laudanum; half an ounce of 
camphorated spirits ; one drachm of carbonate of ammonia may be 
administered. No good effect being produced, throw up a tobacco- 
smoke enema. As a last resort, procure a stick of brimstone and light 
it. Remain in the stable while it burns, or the sulphureous fumes may 
become too powerful for life to inhale them. Continue this measure for 
two hours; then repeat the remedies previously recommended. All 
being fruitless, a desperate resort may be adopted. Puncture the 
abdomen with a trocar; but this operation can only be named here; 
the reader must turn to the substance of the book for its description. 

WORMS 

Are of four kinds : the Taenia, the Lumbrici, the Strongulus, and 
the Ascarides. 

The Taenia mostly affect the young. 

Cause. — Starving the mare when with foal, and breeding from old 
animals. 

Symptoms. — Checked development; large head; low crest; long 
legs, and swollen abdomen. Appetite ravenous; body thin; coat un- 
healthy ; breath fetid. The colt rubs its nose against a wall, or strains 
it violently upward ; picks arid bites its own hair. 

Treatment. — Give spirits of turpentine. To a foal, two drachms ; to 
a three months' old, half an ounce ; six months, one ounce ; one year, 
one ounce and a half; two years, two ounces; three years, three ounces; 
four years and upwards, four ounces. Procure one pound of quassia 
chips; pour on them three quarts of boiling water. Cause to blend 
with the turpentine a proportionate quantity of the quassia infusion, by 
means of yolks of eggs ; add one scruple of powdered camphor, and 
give first thing in the morning. Good food is essential afterward. 
Subsequently give every morning, till the coat is glossy, liquor arseni- 
calis, from one to eight drachms; muriated tincture of iron, from one 
and a half to twelve drachms ; extract of belladonna, from ten grains 
to two drachms ; ale or stout, from half a pint to a quart. 

The Lumbrici prey upon the old and the weakly. 

Treatment. — Tartarized antimony, two drachms; common mass, a 
sufficiency to make one ball. Give one every morning. 

33 



514 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 

The Strongulus, during life, is generally not known to be present. 

The Ascarides cause great itching posteriorly, which provokes the 
horse to rub its hair oflf against the wall. 

Treatment. — Try injections of train oil for one week. Then use in- 
fusion of catechu, one ounce to one quart of water. On the eighth 
morning, give aloes, four drachms; calomel, one drachm. Tobacco- 
smoke enemas are sometimes useful, and the following ointment may be 
placed up the rectum night and morning: Glycerin, half an ounce; 
spermaceti, one ounce ; melt the spermaceti, and blend ; when cold, add 
strong mercurial ointment, three drachms ; powdered camphor, three 
drachms. 

WOUNDS. 

A lacerated wound is generally accompanied by contusion, but with 
little hemorrhage. Shock to the system is the worst of its primary 
effects. The danger springs from collapse. A slough may probably 
follow. The slough is dangerous in proportion as it is tardy. The 
horse may bleed to death if the body is much debilitated. 

Treatment. — Attend first to the system. Give a drink composed of 
sulphuric ether and laudanum, of each one ounce ; water, half a pint. 
Repeat the medicine every quarter of an hour if necessary, or till shiver- 
ing has ceased and the pulse is healthy. A poultice, made of one-fourth 
brewer's yeast, three-fourths of any coarse meal ; or a lotion, consisting 
of tincture of cantharides, one ounce; chloride of zinc, two drachms; 
water, three pints, may be employed. When the slough has fallen, 
apply frequently a solution of chloride of zinc, one grain to the ounce 
of water ; and regulate the food by the pulse. 

An incised wound produces little shock. The danger is immediate, 
as the horse may bleed to death. 

Treatment. — Do not move the horse. Dash the part with cold water, 
or direct upon the bleeding surface a current of wind from the bellows. 
When the bleeding has ceased and the surfaces are sticky, draw the 
edges together with divided sutures. When the sutures begin to drag, 
cut them across. After copious suppuration has been established, bathe 
frequently with the solution of chloride of zinc, one grain to the ounce 
of water. 

An abraded wound generally is accompanied by grit or dirt forced 
into the denuded surface. The pain is so great, the animal may sink 
from irritation. 

Treatment. — Cleanse, by squeezing water from a large sponge above 
the wound, as was directed for broken knees, and allow suppuration to 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 515 

remove any grit that is fixed in the flesh. Support the body, and use 
the chloride of zinc lotion. 

A punctured wound is dangerous, as the parts injured are liable to 
motion. On this account those above the stifle are very hazardous. 
Sinuses form from the torn fascia opposing the exit of the pus; also 
because the small hole in the skin generally bears no proportion to the 
internal damage. 

Treatment. — Always enlarge the external opening to afi'ord egress to 
all sloughs and pus. Regulate the food by the symptoms, and use the 
chloride of zinc lotion. 

A contused wound, when large, causes more congealed blood than 
can be absorbed. This corrupts, and a slough must occur or an abscess 
must form. Either generates weakness, produces irritation, and may lead 
to fatal hemorrhage. Or sinuses may form. Wherefore, such accidents 
are not to be judged of hastily. 

Treatment. — When the contusion is slight, rub the part with iodide 
of lead, one drachm of the salt to an ounce of lard. When large, divide 
the skin, every eighth inch, the entire length of the swelling. Bathe the 
injury with the chloride of zinc lotion, and support the body, as the 
symptoms demand liberality in the matter of food. 

In all wounds, gain, if possible, a large depending orifice, and cover 
the denuded surfaces with a rag saturated with oil of, or in solution of, 
tar. 



The author, having now concluded his labors, cannot forbear from 
repeating the advice which was given to the reader at the commence- 
ment of the present Summary — always appeal to the body of the 
work so soon as the first danger has subsided. Many hints are therein 
contained which could not be embodied in anything deserving to be 
entitled an abbreviation. Ampler space there enables the writer to 
describe certain precautions and to suggest various stratagems which, 
of course, would be out of place in the pages where condensation was 
the professed characteristic. For these reasons the reader is most 
earnestly recommended never to depend longer upon the contents of 
the Summary, than the pressure of immediate danger shall render im- 
perative. 



INDEX. 



Abdomen, diseases of, 165. 
Abdominal injuries, 184, 467. 

ruptured diaphragm, 185, 

ruptured spleen, 186. 

ruptured stomach, 186. 

intro-susception, 187. 

invagination, 187. 

strangulation, 188. 

ruptured intestines, 188. 

calculus, 188. 
Abraded wounds, 425. 
Abscess of the brain, 19, 467. 

symptoms of, 20. 
Acites, 178, 468. 

symptoms of, 178. 

treatment of, 179. 
Acute dysentery, 172, 468. 

cause of, 173. 

symptoms of, 173. 

treatment of, 174. 
Acute gastritis, 147, 469. 

causes of, 147. 

treatment of, 148. 

symptoms of, 149. 
Acute laminitis, 367, 469. 

cause of, 868. 

symptoms of, 369. 

treatment for, 370. 
Albuminous urine, 218, 470. 
All kinds of treatment have been tried 

for tetanus, 32. 
Alphabetical summary, 465. 
Alteration in shape consequent upon 

tetanus, 31. 
Aphtha, 73, 470. 

treatment of, 73. 
Attention to the feeding of horses most 
important, 20. 

Back sinews, clap of, 302, 477. 

sprain of, 303, 507. 
Bandage for punctured abdomen, 432. 
Best treatment for megrims, 26. 
Blood spavin, 328, 470. 
Bloody urine, 215, 486. 
:Sog spavin, 318, 470. 



Bots, 152, 470. 

causes of, 152. 
Brain, abscess of, 19. 

and nervous systems : their acci- 
dents and diseases, 17. 

disease of, 17. 
Breaking down, 304, 470. 

cause of, 304. 

treatment for, 305. 
Broken knees, 404, 471. 

contusion generally accompanies, 
405. 

cause of, 406. 

proper mode to wash, 407. 

how to probe, 408. 

treatment for, 410. 
Broken wind, 254, 472. 

cause of, 255. 

symptoms of, 256. 

treatment for, 257. 
Bronchocele, 119, 473. 

remedies for, 119. 
Bronchitis, 125, 472. 

symptoms of, 126. 

remedies for, 127. 
Bruise of the sole, 353, 473. 
Buying a captain, 84. 

Calculi, 213, 473. 
Canker, 358, 474. 

cause of, 359. 

symptoms of, 359. 

treatment for, 361. 
Capped elbow, 324, 474 
Capped hock, 321, 474. 
Capped knee, 321, 475. 
Cartilages, ossified, 366, 495. 
Cataract, 54, 475. 

kinds of, 54. 

preventive for, 54. 

no remedy for complete, 56. 

use of belladonna in, 56. 

no medicine can cure, 57. 
Cavities, synovial, open, 412, 494. 
Chest, the diseases of, 121. 
Choking, 110, 475. 

(517) 



618 



INDEX. 



Choking, causes of, 111. 

different kinds of, 111. 

high, most important, 111. 

remedy for, 112. 

low, 113. 
Chronic dysentery, 175, 476. 

cause of, 175. 

symptoms of, 176. 

treatment of, 177. 
Chronic gastritis, 150, 476. 

symptoms of, 150. 

treatment of, 151. 
Chronic hepatitis, 158, 477. 
Clap of the back sinews, 302, 477. 
Cold, 84, 477. 

its causes, 84. 

symptoms of, 85. 

treatment of, 85. 
Colic, windy, 199. 

spasmodic, 194, 505. 

cause of, 194. 

symptoms of, 196. 

treatment for, 197. 
Congestion in the field, 121, 478. 

remedy for, 122. 
Congestion in the stable, 123, 478. 

remedy for, 125. 
Corns, 349, 478. 

causes of, 349. 

old and new, how to distinguish, 350. 

treatment for, 352. 
Contused wounds, 427. 
Cough, 99, 479. 

symptoms of, 99. 

treatment for, 100. 

medicines for, 101. 
Countenance of a horse with hydro- 
phobia, 27. 
Cracked heels, 250, 479. 

cause of, 250. 

symptoms of, 252. 

treatment for, 252. 
Crib-biting, 162, 480. 

symptoms of, 163. 

treatment of, 164. 
Curb, 306, 480. 

cause of, 308. 

treatment for, 307. 
Curb-chain may injure the jaw, 72. 
Cj'stic calculus, 214. 
Cystitis, 209, 480. 

causes of, 211. 

symptoms of, 210. 

treatment for, 210. 

Diabetes insipidus, 217, 481. 

causes, 217. 

treatment for, 217. 
Diaphragm, spasm of, 145, 504. 
Disease of the heart, 143. 
Division of the tendons, 457. 



Division of the tendons, the necessity for, 
how provoked, 458. 

how to perform, 459. 

after-treatment required for, 460. 
Do not whip a runaway horse, 19. 
DrojDsy of the abdomen, 178. 
Dysentery, acute, 172. 

chronic, 175. 

Enteritis, 165, 481. 

causes of, 105. 

symptoms of, 167. 

mode of making sure that it is pres- 
ent, 1G9. 

treatment of, 170. 
Excoriated angles of the mouth, 64, 481. 

causes of, 64. 

treatment for, 66. 
Expression of a horse changed by re- 
peated attacks of megrims, 25. 
Extirpation of the eye, 59. 
Eye, fungoid tumors in, 57. 
Eyes, the diseases of, 42. 

Face of a horse with hydrophobia, 27. 
False quarter, 345, 482. 

cause of, 345. 

treatment for, 346. 
Farcy, 282, 482. 

cause of, 282. 

symptoms of, 283. 
Feeding a horse with chronic tetanus, 33. 
Feet, their diseases, 330. 
Fever in the feet, 367. 
Filled legs, 239. 
Fistulous parotid duct, 394, 482. 

its causes, 395. 

symptoms of, 396. 

treatment for, 397. 
Fistulous withers, 391, 483. 

its causes, 391. 

symptoms of, and treatment for, 392. 
Flatulent colic, 199. 
Foot, prick of, 354, 498 

pumice, 339, 499. 
Fret, 194, 505. 
Fungoid tumors in the eye, 57, 483. 

symptoms of, 57. 

horrible alternatives left by, 58. 

Gastritis, acute, 147. 

chronic, 150. 
Glanders, 274, 483. 

cause of, 274. 

symptoms of, 276. 
Gleet, nasal, 91, 491. 
Grease, 242, 484. 

prevention of, 242. 

nature of, 242. 

cause of, 244. 

symptoms of, 245. 



INDEX. 



519 



Grease, treatment for, 247. 
Gripes, 194, 505. 
Gutta Serena, 38, 485. 

causes of, 38. 

symptoms of, 39. 

peculiarities of, 40. 

effect upon the optic nerve, 40. 

Harness horses most subject to megrims, 

#24. 
Hay rack, evils of its general position, 44. 
Heart, disease of, 143, 485. 
Heels, cracked, 250. 
Hematuria, 215, 485. 

symptoms of, 215. 

treatment for, 216. 
Hepatitis, chronic, 158. 

causes of, 158. 

treatment for, 160. 
Hide-bound, 231, 486. 

treatment for, 232. 
Highblowing, 94, 486. 
Horse quickly learns to recognize the 

voice of its owner, 19. 
How to treat a runaway horse, 19. 
Hydrophobia, 27, 486. 

symptoms of, 27. 

treatment for, 28. 
Hydrothorax, 139, 486. 

symptoms of, 140. 

treatment of, 141. 

Incised wounds, 424. 
Idiopathic tetanus, 29. 

causes of, 30. 
Impediment in the lachrymal duct, 61, 
487. 

causes of, 62. 

treatment for, 62. 
Inflammation of the kidneys, 204, 492. 

of the bladder, 209, 480. 

of the vein, 398, 496. 
Influenza, 181, 487. 

probable cause of, 181. 

symptoms of, 182. 

treatment of, 183. 
Injuries, 385. 

of the abdomen, 184. 

to the jaw, 69, 488. 

the snaffle may cause, 70. 

but often does produce, 70. 

treatment for, 71. 

produced by London stables, 35. 

Jaw, injuries to the, 69, 488. 
Joints, synovial, open, 418, 494. 

Kidneys, inflammation of, 204, 492. 
Knees, broken, 404. 

Lacerated eyelid, 60, 488. 



Lacerated eyelid, cause of, 60. 

treatment for, 61. 
Lacerated tongue, 74, 488. 

causes of, 77. 

treatment of, 77. 
Lacerated wounds, 423. 
Lameness, 330. 

treatment for. 330. 

mode of progression when in differ- 
ent feet, 333. 
-Laminitis, acute, 367. 

subacute, 375, 489. 
Lampas, 67. 

an imaginary disease, 67. 
Larva in the skin, 233, 489. 

cause of, 233. 

cure for, 234. 
Laryngitis, 101, 488. 

cause of, 101. 

symptoms of, 102. 

treatment of, 102. 
Lash, effect of on the eye of the horse, 43. 
Laying open the sinuses of a quitter, 462. 

how to accomplish, 462. 

intention of, 463. 
Lice, 232, 489. 
Limbs, the diseases of, 286. 
Liver, the diseases of, 145. 
London stables, 35. 
Luxation of the patella, 325, 490. 

Madness, 27. 

Mad staggers, 20. 

Mallenders and sallenders, 249, 490. 

treatment for, 249. 
Mange, 220, 490. 

causes of, 221. 

symptoms of, 223. 

treatment for, 225. 
Megrims, 24, 491. 

a foi'm of epilepsy, 24. 

when the attacks may appear, 2 1. 

symptoms of, 25. 
Melanosis, 259, 491. 

symptoms of, 259. 

treatment for, 260. 
Mode of feeding a horse with chronic 

tetanus, 33. 
Mouth, the, its accidents and diseases, 64. 

excoriated angles of, 64. 

roof of, may be injured by the bit, 71. 

the disease of, 64. 

Nasal gleet, 91, 491. 

its causes, 91. 

its treatment, 92. 
Nasal polypus, 88, 492. 

its nature, 88. 

its treatment, 88. 
Navicular disease, 377, 492. 

seat of, 377. 



520 



INDEX. 



Navicular disease, causes of, 378. 

symptoms of, 379. 

treatment for, 382. 
Nephritis, 204, 492. 

causes of, 205. 

symptoms of, 206. 

treatment for, 207. 
Nervous system, its accidents and its 

diseases, 17. 
Neurotomy, 451. 

its results, 451. 

manner of performing, 452. 
Nostrils, the diseases of, 84. 

tlieir accidents and their diseases, 84. 

Occult spavin, 808, 493. 

cause of, 309. 

symptom of, 309. 

treatment for, 310. 
Open synovial joints, 418, 494. 

primary treatment for, 418. 

general treatment for, 419. 
Open synovial cavities, 412, 494. 

cause of, 412. 

nature of, 413. 

what is generally spoken of as, 415. 

treatment for, 415. 
Operation of no use in abscess of the 

brain, 20. 
Operations, 434, 495. 

aids to fetter the horse for, 440. 
Ophthalmia, simple, 42, 503. 

specific, 4G, 506. 
Optic nerve, the effect of gutta serena 

upon, 41. 
Osseous deposits, 286. 
Ossified cartilages, 366, 495. 
Overreach, 349, 495. 

treatment for, 349. 

Parotid duct, fistulous, 394 
Parrot-mouth, 66, 495. 

evils of, 67. 

no cure for, 67. 
Partial paralysis, 36, 496. 

symptom of, 36. 

the disease of fast horses, 37. 

generally past all cure, 37. 

the only hope of remedy for, 37. 
Patella, luxation of, 325, 490. 
Periosteotomy, 449. 

the intention of, 449. 

its advantages considered, 450. 
Phlebitis, 398. 496. 

experiment with regard to, 399. 

cause of, 400. 

symptoms of, 401. 

treatment for, 402. 
Phrenitis, 17, 496. 

seldom is perceived approaching, 18. 

symptoms of its approach, 18. 



Phrenitis, remedies for the early symp- 
toms of, 18. 
Physic of no use in abscess of the 

brain, 20. 
Pleurisy, 136, 497. 

symptoms of, 137. 

treatment of, 138. 

causes of, 139. 
Pneumonia, 130, 497. 

doubts concerning, 131. 

symptoms of, 131. 

treatment of, 132. 
Poll evil, 385, 498. 

its causes, 386. 

symptoms of, 387. 

treatment for, 388. 
Polypus, nasal, 88, 492. 
Prick of the foot, 354, 498. 
Profuse staling, 215, 481. 
Prurigo, 226, 499. 

symptoms of, 226. 

treatment of, 227. 
Pumice foot, 339, 499. 

causes of, 339. 

symptoms of, 340. 

treatment for, 341. 
Punctured wounds, 426. 
Purgative and quiet, best remedies for 

tetanus, 32. 
Purpura hemorrhagica, 265, 499. 

symptoms of, 265. 

treatment for, 266. 

Quarter, false, 345. 

Quidding, 79. 

Quiet and a strong purgative, the best 

remedies for tetanus, 32. 
Quittor, 354, 500. 

cause of, 355. 

symptoms of, 355. 

treatment for, 357. 

sinuses of, laying open^462. 

Rack, hay, evil of its general posi- 
tion, 44. 
Eheumatism, 312, 500. 

cause of, 312. 

symptoms of, 312. 

treatment for, 313. 
Ring-bone, 298, 500. 

cause of, 298. 

symptoms of, 298. 

treatment for, 300. 
Ring-worm, 227, 501. 

symptoms of, 227. 

treatment for, 228. 
Roaring, 106, 501. 

chronic, is a serious affair, 106. 

causes and effects of, 106. 

remedy for, 109. 



INDEX. 



621 



Roof of the moutli may be injured by 

the bit, 71. 
Rupture of oesophagus, 115, 501. 
how caused, 116. 

Sallenders, 249, 490. 
Sandcrack, 342, 502. 

causes of, 342. 

symptoms of, 342. 

treatment for, 348. 
Scald mouth, 82, 502. 

causes of, 82. 

symptoms of, 83. 

treatment of, 83. 
Seedy toe, 346, 503. 

treatment for, 347. 
Shying, 42. 
Simple ophthalmia, 42, 503. 

nature of, 43. 

causes, 43. 

treatment of, 45. 

symptoms of, 45. 
Sinuses of a quitter, laying open, 462. 
Sitfast, 240, 503. 

cause of, 241. 

treatment for, 241. 
Skin, diseases of, 220. 
Sole, bruise of, 353, 498. 
Sore throat, 96, 503. 

symptoms of, 97. 

treatment for, 97. 
Spasm of the diaphragm, 145, 504. 

symptoms of, 145. 

treatment of, 146. 
Spasm of the urethra, 212, 504. 

causes of, 212. 

symptoms of, 212. 

treatment for, 213. 
Spasmodic colic, 194, 505. 

causes of, 194. 

symptoms of, 196. 

treatment for, 197. 
Spavin, 286, 505. 

cause of, 287. 

symptoms of, 288. 

treatment for, 293. 

how to examine for, 291. 

occult, 308, 493. 
Specific diseases, varieties of, 254. 
Specific ophthalmia, 46, 506. 

eyes supposed most subject to, 47. 

small stables the cause of, 47. 

symptoms of, 48. 

contrasted with simple ophthalmia, 
49. 

treatment for, 50. 

preventive for, 51. 

terminations of, 51. 
Splint, 294, 506. 

cause of, 294. 

symptoms of, 296. 



Splint, treatment of, 297. 

Sprain of the back sinews, 303, 507. 

cause of, 303. 

treatment for, 304. 
Staggers, 20, 507. 

treatment for, 22. 

origin of, 20. 

sleepy, 22. 
Strain of the flexor tendon, 300, 508. 
Strangles, 267, 508. 

cause of, 268. 

symptoms of, 268. 

treatment for, 269. 

a bad kind of, 272. 
Stringhalt, 33, 509. 

symptom of, 33. 

cause of, 35. 
Stomach, the, diseases of, 145. 
Stricture of oesophagus, 110, 501. 

its effects, 117. 
Subacute laminitis, 375, 489. 

W. Percival's account of, 375. 

treatment for, 376. 
Summary, alphabetical, 465. 
Surfeit, 229, 509. 

treatment for, 230. 

a severe kind of, 230. 
treatment for, 230. 
Swollen legs, 239, 509. 

symptoms of, 239. 

treatment for, 240. 
Synovial cavities, open, 412, 494. 

joints, open, 418, 494. 

Tapping the chest, 141. 
Teeth, disease of, 78, 509, 

symptoms of their disease, 80. 

treatment of, 81. 
Tendons, division of, 457. 
Tetanus, 28, 510. 
Thorough-pin, 319, 510. 
Throat, its accidents and diseases, 96. 

sore, 96, 503. 

the diseases of, 96. 
Thrush, 363, 510. 

cause of, 363. 

treatment for, 364. 
Toe, seedy, 346, 503. 
Toothache, 80. 
Tooth, components of, 79. 
Tracheotomy, 443. 

how to perform, 445. 
Traumatic tetanus, 29. 

causes of, 29. 

test for, 30. 
Tread, 348, 511. 

causes of, in light and heavy 
horses, 348. 

treatment for, 348. 
True cause of stringhalt, 35. 
Tumors, 237, 511. 



522 



INDEX. 



Tumors, natures of, 238. 
Tushes, a cause of sickness, 78. 
Tympanitis, 199. 

Universal spasm is tetanus, 30. 
Urethra, spasm of, 504. 
Urethral calculus, 215. 
Urinary organs, diseases of, 204. 

Vein, inflammation of the, 398, 496. 

Warts, 235, 511. 

kinds of, 236. 

treatment for, 236, 
Water, certain death, after over-gorg- 
ing, 21. 
Water farcy, 262, 512. 

cause of, 262. 

symptoms of, 263. 

treatment for, 264. 
Wheezing, 94, 486. 
Wind-galls, 315, 512. 



Wind-galls, symptoms of, 316. 

treatment for, 317. 
Windy colic, 199, 512. 
causes of, 199. 
symptoms of, 200. 
treatment for, 201. 
Withers, fistulous, 391. 
Worms, 190, 513. 
cause of, 190. 
symptoms of, 191. 
treatment for, 192. 
Wounds, 423, 514. 
lacerated, 423. 

their treatment, 427. 
incised, 424. 

their treatment, 428. 
abraded, 425. 

their treatment, 430. 
punctured, 426. 

their treatment, 430. 
contused, 427. 

their treatment, 431. 



THE 



ILLUSTRATED 



eORSE MANAGEMENT 



OONTAHflNO DESCBIPTIVB EEMAEK8 XIPON 



ANATOMY, MEDICINE, SHOEING, TEETH, FOOD, 
VICES, STABLES; 



LIKJEWISE A PLAIN AOOOCNT OF THE 



Situation, 'gtiimt, u'^ Mm at i\t \iman |oints 

T00MH2E WITH COMMENTS ON 

GROOMS, DEALERS, BREEDERS, BREAKERS, AND TRAINERS 

ALSO ON 

CARRIAGES AND HARNESS. 



Embellished with more than iOO Engravings, from Original Designs made 
eipressly for this Work. 



BY 



EDWARD MAYHEW, M.R.C.V.S. 

AUTHOR OF "THE ILLUSTRATED HORSE DOCTOR," AND OTHER WORKS 



PHILADELPHIA : 

J. B. LIPPINCOTT & CO. 



PREFACE. 



The reader, after having perused the present volume, 
may imagine the writer should have been more explicit 
when advertising the book's intentions, that a mass of 
speculative novelty should not have been hastily intruded 
upon the general public. Such, probably, will be the pri- 
mary impression of most purchasers. The author, how- 
ever, regrets he is by truth obliged to decline the compli- 
ment embodied in such a complaint. Those notions which, 
hurriedly regarded, appear as original, will, to the matured 
judgment, show only as an obvious result, worked out by 
the easy application of a single idea. Common sense em- 
braces every merit in the ensuing pages. Grant this, and 
there remains no loftier claim to advance. The different 
chapters contain nothing which is not very superficial and 
entirely based upon fact. Every statement included in the 
following articles becomes plain and self-evident to the man 
who can release his mind from the trammels of conven- 
tionality, and will allow his conceptions to be shaped by 
the habits and the inclinations which are natural to the 
equine species. 

No living creature could be more exposed to the willful- 
ness of perversity than the horse has hitherto been. All 

(y) 



^1 PREFACE. 

around and about the quadruped was moulded by influ- 
ences which never regard the instincts of the animal. 
Every incident, directly or remotely concerning its welfare, 
was misconstrued or misstated. In proof of this is the 
common belief that Arabia produces the perfection of the 
tribe. This opinion is not to be substantiated by investi- 
gation. It is accepted upon no positive evidence. It is 
opposed to deductions drawn from a notorious fact. The 
greater number of Arabian steeds are not much larger 
than .ordinary ponies. The climate dwarfs the stature. 
Dwindled development is recognized as the established 
proof of an uncongenial location. 

The Arab horse is undoubtedly the most beautiful and 
the most intelligent specimen of its race. Travelers assure 
us it lives beside its master. It is the companion of the 
man and the playmate of the child. The country may not 
be favorable to its bodily perfection; but the affections and 
the mental attributes of a dumb intelligence are in that 
land cultivated and enlarged. Arabia boasts possession of 
the most civilized race of quadrupeds which are known to 
mankind. Looking on the creatures of that country, the 
world can contemplate the money value of kindness, since 
the indulgence of this emotion can conceal a serious cor- 
poral defect! 

Probably it may be urged such intimacy between the 
human being and the beast is compatible only with a wild 
and a half-savage state of society. But there exist other 
nations as unrefined; nay, many peoples are known to be 
more barbarous than are the Arabs. The animal, how- 
ever, fares as badly with inhabitants of the uncultured 
as with people of the civilized regions. The absence or 



PREFACE. vu 

the presence of refinement does not influence the welfare 
of an equine slave. Then gentleness in the Arabian must 
be a purely responsive emotion. Its presence or its absence 
is apart from mental status, or the social distinctions of 
the population to whom it is subjected and by whom it is 
surrounded. 

The horse, in Britain, generally occupies the same house 
as the groom; but it is not, therefore, regarded with the 
feeling which is indulged by the inhabitant of the tent. 
The change from the soil of its birth to the English stable 
is attended with a total alteration of circumstances. Cold- 
ness or brutality, however, cannot banish the spirit which 
benevolence had fostered. The rebellion provoked by harsh- 
ness is only more complete. The quietude of content is 
replaced by the wildness of timidity. Confidence is de- 
stroyed ; fear assumes the likeness of savagery. The horse 
becomes a brute; for ignorance will not believe its inferior 
can be actuated by a reasonable motive. 

In India the cavalry are mounted upon half-bred Persian 
horses. Not a few of the officers, however, bestride chargers 
of pure Arabian blood. These last are commonly under 
the charge of European servants, and serve European 
masters. The animal's nature changes with its location. 
The alteration, therefore, is independent of heat or of frost. 
The Arabs of India are as famed for ferocity as the creat- 
ures of the desert are notorious for gentleness of disposition. 

The English behavior is chiefly shaped by selfishness, 
based upon a degraded superstition, which insists that every 
form of inferior existence was created for man's use and 
relinquished to his pleasure. The author must leave to 
others the inquiry, whether Christianity invests those who 



Viu PREFACE. 

profess to believe its doctrines with any power which can 
be separated from the potency of charity. It is not for him 
to decide whether the conduct of a half-savage and a pagan 
tribe should, in its fruits and in its results, shame the con- 
sequences produced by the acts of men who boast of educa- 
tion and worship the exemplification of self-sacrifice and of 
love. 

Would man only be content to base observations upon 
fact, anatomy has for a sufficient period ascertained a cir- 
cumstance which should have startled public wonder into 
exclamation. But, where the horse is involved, centuries 
of prejudice appear to have generated a slothfulness of 
comprehension which overpowers all ordinary intelligence. 
In a bird a similar development has for ages been accepted 
as the proof of peacefulness of disposition. The pigeon 
congregates in flocks; it lives on vegetable substances, and 
it possesses a liver which exhibits no gall-bladder. This 
deficiency and these habits apply to the horse as literally 
as to the feathered type of innocence. PerhajDS the higher 
status of the quadruped might be urged as the ground of a 
primary title to human consideration. Yet the dove-cot 
would seem to have blinded man to the merits of the 
stable ! 

The horse possesses a full-sized liver; still the gland ex- 
hibits no receptacle in which any excess of biliary secretion 
may be retained. The testimony of nature associates the 
creatures which man views as opposites, or regards as the 
emblem of peace and as the living embodiment of inveterate 
vice. Sameness and dissimilarity appear oddly united when 
both lives are viewed as the creations of the Omniscient. 
Resemblance in body should direct recognition to a likeness 



PREFACE. IS 

in spirit. Bearing in mind by whose ordinization all facts 
originate; remembering how life in this world is linked by 
bonds more difficult to trace than a positive sameness; and 
admitting that the One Parent had a design in every part 
of the many forms which He called into existence, — human 
ignorance must be wrong when it refuses to acknowledge 
an identity thus plainly emphasized. 

That the workings of mortal conception are peculiarly 
eccentric, or at all events that candid appreciation has not 
embraced the helpmate of man on earth, is established by 
every rule of right being perverted when the horse appears 
upon the scene. The spirit of perversion seems so power- 
ful it involves even the people who act with the animal. 
When Mr. Rarey came to England, he was hailed as a 
wonder. Mr. Rarey is now away from these shores, and 
the persons who formerly acknowledged his genius now 
speak of the system which he publicly demonstrated, as a 
flagrant imposture ! 

Why is this? What causes such contradictory opinions? 
His present defamers declare Mr. Rarey to be a humbug, 
because horses, when returned to the former grooms and 
subjected to the former treatment, resume the former 
habits. Like causes in other spheres are admitted to pro- 
duce like results. The animal merely responds to the con- 
duct of those who surround it. Mr. Rarey tames by the 
exhibition of kindness. He 'convinces dumb intelligence 
how futile is resistance, and makes apparent the groundless- 
ness of fear. It is not the spirit which he subdues, but it 
is the confidence which he gains. All his acts are dictated 
by a desire to banish distrust. The animal having learned 
its lesson is restored to its proprietor. But if the owner 



^ PREFACE. 

has not profited by the instruction which he also has wit- 
nessed, ought he to be surprised if his inferior should forget 
the lesson received ? 

Is there not something remorselessly evil in thus con- 
verting the bad conduct of mankind into a reason for deny- 
ing the operation of an obvious goodness; in refusing to 
acknowledge the responsive nature of the companion spe- 
cially given to soften the doom of the human race; and 
doing this only to warrant the insolence of severity, which 
would seem to be a failing inherent in mortal breasts? But 
the doctrines of love and of charity are, by many worthy 
individuals, supposed to apply only to the conduct of man 
to man. There, in general belief, begins and ends the 
lesson. Even at this late period it is often read but never 
understood that Universal Benevolence looked down and 
blessed every form of life which the Spirit had created. 

To inculcate the Christian theory; to simply illustrate 
its wisdom, and to demonstrate the folly of verbally ac- 
knowledging its teaching, while the acts of its professed 
believers do not testify to its truth, has been the endeavor 
of the author. He imagines that possibly he may convince 
some reader of the loss which the existing customs entail 
upon society. He does not anticipate to actuate many 
purchasers; but should a few carry into practice one or 
two of his suggestions, and such innovations should upon 
trial prove successful, other experiments will be hazarded, 
until all meriting adoption are generally recognized. 

But numerous readers, after having read the foregoing, 
may nevertheless be inclined to inquire, "What is the use 
of this fuss about morality, when the issue only involves a 
Jiorse?" To this interrogatory the writer unhesitatingly re- 



PREFACE. • il 

plies, that the first and the most difficult teaching of civiliza- 
tion ever concerns man's behavior to his inferiors. Make 
humanity gentle or reasonable toward animals, and strife 
or injustice between human beings would speedily termin- 
ate. But instruction to be efiective should be convincing : 
therefore, purposely avoiding sentimentality, the author 
has sought to enlist the feeling only by satisfying the 
judgment. 

Such are the purposes which induced "Horse Manage- 
ment" to be indited. But high as the object may be, the 
writer, when submitting his labors to the notice of the pub- 
lic, cannot otherwise than feel there is a common phrase, 
which passes current for criticism, and to which this book 
is peculiarly exposed. The colloquialism alluded to is the 
more insidious because it rather appeals to a prejudice than 
expresses anything absolute or definite. It rests upon a 
word in general use among the superficial of every profes- 
sion, and that word is one which, in the public credulity, 
exalts the individual who abuses it. Let a medical practi- 
tioner study to master the rudiments of his calling, and the 
purpose of his assiduity will be whispered away by insinua- 
tions about the student being a most admirable theorist; 
but, unhappily, not being "a, practical man." 

Another individual shall earn disgrace at college. Yet 
this man shall start business to knock about the drugs and 
hack at living flesh, without comprehending the parts he is 
interfering with or having any knowledge of the medicines 
which he ventures to administer. This last person, though 
he neither adorns nor enlarges the sphere in which he acts, 
invariably attains the lucrative repute of being "a purely 
practical man." The notoriety brings profit to the object 



XU PREFACE. 

who merits no reward, while the absence of such fame 
acutely increases the sufferings of a deserving gentleman 
who had dared to brave the thorns which proverbially 
beset the pathway of desert to the recognition of society. 

Against the facts declared in the present pages those who 
are interested to uphold existing foolish and cruel customs 
will probably urge their ^^ favorite plirase." To conceal its 
hollowness and to render acceptable its wholesale condem- 
nation, it may be ushered in by an appearance of candor: 
thus, "Oh! the book is very pretty — nice reading — very 
humane — a little weak — rather overdone — too philanthrop- 
ical, and wholly ^unpractical.' It teaches nothing which 
experience could adopt or which the thorough horseman 
can do more than laugh at. Entirely unpractical." 

How long are men to be subjugated by mere verbal as- 
sertion ? All this world has to boast of — all mighty truths, 
all great inventions — have originally had to struggle against 
this "practical" bugbear, which ignorance sets up to frighten 
its fellows from those doctrines which aim at the ameliora- 
tion of mankind. Recently it delayed the realization of 
railways. It has long opposed all social improvement ; and 
as this is written it is being advanced as a barrier to Prac- 
tical Christianity itself! Those who can regard the in- 
struction of the Creator as too fine for the creature of his 
creation, may readily condemn all human promptings! 

To deprive this phrase of its abuse and destroy its mys- 
terious signification, let the reader quietly ask himself what 
is really meant by a thing, a book, or a doctrine being 
"practical." If the word bears any construction, it ob- 
viously must imply that which can be used, or a lesson 
which is capable of being illustrated by performance. The 



PREFACE. Xm 

test of "practicahiliti/" then, resides in the sincerity of thos» 
endeavors which attempt to embody certain instructions. 
Where no wish to exemplify exists, of course no teaching 
can be ^'practical." The proof, consequently, generally re« 
poses with the person who advances the accusation, and 
the accuser is by this prejudice constituted judge of that 
he has already condemned. 

What is there in the present volume or in the " Horse 
Doctor" which cannot possibly be enacted, supposing an 
actuating motive to influence the trial? Nothing can be 
practical if there be wanting the desire to embody particular 
directions ; but to ascertain the value of a current phrase, 
he to whom it is addressed should ask for the special pas- 
sage to which this condemnation pointedly alludes. If no 
specific warrant can be produced, a verdict merely founded 
upon generalities should never be accepted. 

The author, when seeking to accomplish the evident pur- 
pose of the volume, deeply regrets those comments which a 
regard for correctness has compelled him to ofier upon the 
present race of grooms. He can, however, with sincerity 
deny that the indulgence of dislike, or the gratification of 
malice, has induced him to travel beyond the limits of his 
subject. The men in this capacity occupy an unfortunate 
position. They and their interests range in the foremost 
rank of existing wrong. It is impossible to amend the 
regulations of any modern stable withouf removing some 
of this calling, or overthrowing some of the abuses, with a 
perpetuation of which the stable servant and his perquisites 
are directly involved. An earnest desire for improvement, 
therefore, compelled the review of that class who, if un- 
assailed, were interested to be the most strenuous advocates 



KlV PREFACE. 

of the bad usages which it was desired should be over- 
thrown. 

In conclusion, the getting up of the work bespeaks the 
care bestowed upon the volume by the publishers, to whom 
the author oJBfers his most fervent acknowledgments. Nor 
can the writer bid adieu to his patrons without directing 
attention to the talent exhibited by the numerous artists 
and engravers whose labors adorn the pages of the present 
publication. 

NORBURY, 

Lansdowne Road, Torquay. 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER I. 

PAGE 

The body of the horse anatomically considered . . .... 17 

CHAPTER II. 
Physic — The mode of administering it, and minor operations . . .53 

CHAPTER III. 

Shoeing — Its origin, its uses, and its varieties ...... 95 

CHAPTER IV. 

The Teeth — Their natural growth, and the abuses to which they are liable. 133 

CHAPTER V. 

Food — The fittest time for feeding, and the kind of food which the horse 

naturally consumes . . . . . . . . . .168 

CHAPTER VI. 

The evils which are occasioned by modern stables ..... 200 

CHAPTER VII. 

The faults inseparable from most present erections which are used as stables. 233 

CHAPTER VIII. 

The so-called "incapacitating vices," which are the results of injury or of 

disease ............. 263 

CHAPTER IX. 

Stables as they should be 297 

(XV) 



xvi CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER X. 
Grooms — Their prejudices, their injuries, and their duties .... 827 

CHAPTER XI. 

Horse Dealers — Who they are, their mode of dealing, their profits, their 

morality, and their secrets 357 

CHAPTER XII. 

Points — Their relative importance, and where to look for their development. 379 

CHAPTER XIII. 
Breeding — Its inconsistencies and its disappointments 427 

CHAPTER XIV. 
Breaking and Training — Their errors and their results .... 449 

CHAPTER XV. 
Carriages — Their cost, their make, their excellences, and their management. 477 

CHAPTER XVI. 

Saddlery, Harness, and Stable Sundries — Of what these consist ; their appli- 
cation and their preservation .... .... 494 

Index 527 



THE 



ILLUSTEATED HORSE MANAGEMENT. 



CHAPTER I. 

THE BODY OF THE HORSE ANATOMICALLY CONSIDERED, 

Were the equine race extinct, nevertheless an anatomist, by study- 
ing its bones, might afiBrm its instincts and assert its uses. Every part 
declares it to be a creature of speed ; while its large cranium and beauti- 




STUDENTS BISSBCTINQ AT THE SOTAL TXTEBINAST COLLEGE, LONDON. 

fully-arranged teeth would announce it to have once been connected with 
civilization by its intelligence, by its uses, and its herbivorous habit. The 
provision made for the united strength and elasticity of the spine would 
indicate the care nature had bestowed upon the comfort of a rider; while 

2 (17) 



18 ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 

the mode in which the members were joined to the body, with the reach 
of limb peculiar to the skeleton, would equally announce that grace and 
that ease which had characterized the lost animal's movements. 

What lamentation would be poured forth over the absence of such a 
treasure ! How would poignant regrets be awakened, as science demon- 
strated what onee were the endowments of an extinct inhabitant of earth ! 
Yet, at the present time, humanity possesses this priceless creature to 
lighten toil and heighten pleasure. But, how few of mankind have ever 
reflected upon the marvelous delicacy of the slave's construction ! It is 
lashed unto exhaustion and worked into deformity. Because of the treat- 
ment it experiences at the hands of the master, whom it serves, it gener- 
ally ceases to exist before its body is matured ; but short as its life may 
be, existence is to it only one continued misery ! 

Even mortal instruments, things of the world's manufacture, are lim- 
ited in their applications, and capable of being deranged. A spring 
carriage is, obviously, not a suitable conveyance for a load of paving 
stones. He would be esteemed mad, who should appropriate such a 
vehicle to so gross a purpose. The horse's body is more delicately 
arranged and more nicely balanced than the perfection of human skill 
can hope to imitate ; nevertheless, people expose themselves to no rebuke 
when they wrench, cripple, or destroy the beauty which is intrusted to 
their authority. 

Yet, the thing constructed by human hands, if injured, can be repaired, 
and may be thus rendered again equal to its uses. A living animal, how- 
ever, being damaged, is not, on this earth, to be restored to its integrity. 
That has been, and is lost ! Mortal science may relieve the wound, but 
the scar remains, to conjure up thoughts of that deeper seated derange- 
ment, which is beyond the reach of this world's medicine. The body 
may partially recover and the life may be prolonged; but deformity, 
accompanied by a proportionate loss of function, will testify to the folly 
that deteriorated the perfection which was given as a helpmate. 

Those forms of agony, which a few years ago were more common in 
England than such are even at the present time, evidently declared that 
the horse was altogether unequal to increasing wants and growing de- 
sires of mankind. Neither the fleetness of the courser nor the strength 
of the heavier breed embodied the requirements of the age. Something 
faster and more powerful had become a public necessity ; therefore rail- 
roads were permitted. 

Such persons as can talk of railroads being destined to destroy the 
breed of horses, must suflfer under a confusion of ideas. The breed of 
horses may be endangered, as this is being written ; but the source of 
peril lies very far removed from the lines of tramway. The objects, 



ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. IS 

capable of being fulfilled by breathing flesh and by steaming iron, are 
altogether separate and distinct. No living body can aspire to con- 
tend, in strength or in speed, with the results of mechanical contrivance. 
Neither can the forge or the furnace ever hope to produce any combina- 
tion of springs and wheels which can compare with the ease of motion, 
the docility of temper, or the intelligence of spirit that should recommend 
the quadruped to the kindness of its earthly proprietor. 

The horse is the associate of man. It is true, the poor animal can be 
goaded to excessive labor; but the creature becomes degraded when it 
toils beyond the sphere of mortal sympathy. No living animal should 
be subjected to the exactions of avarice. Life was not made to be thus 
debased. What, however, the horse, when properly treated, is capable 
of performing, remains to be hereafter demonstrated. How much it can 
enact, and how greatly it can benefit, when justly treated, the present 
customs refuse the willing drudge a chance of proving. No steed is now 
permitted to grow till its thews and muscles are matured. Before the 
season of its utility can come round, the colt is seized upon by the impa- 
tience of gain, and the baby limbs are distorted by that early affliction 
which forbids the natural powers to be developed. 

We can, however, even by the inspection of the body, discover that it 
is admirably adapted for continuous and prolonged exertion. The main- 
tenance of animal motion chiefly depends on the provision made for 
aerating the blood. In proportion as the vital current can be revivified 
or oxygenated is health promoted by those efforts, which in most bodies 
would, assuredly, induce congestion and death. Age becomes very im- 
portant when the subject is thus considered. Respiration is in youth 
quicker than during adultism, because there is so much more oxygen 
needed when the frame is in a growing state. By working the horse 
before maturity is attained, the animal is obliged to labor when the 
ordinary velocity of the respiration permits of the less marginal speed for 
the breathing apparatus to exert upon extraordinary occasions. Never- 
theless, that the reader may judge correctly of the care nature had be- 
stowed upon the formation of a creature destined for subserviency to 
man, the following engraving is appended. 

The accompanying illustration exhibits the lungs as of large propor- 
tional dimensions ; while the stomach will be recognized as of more than 
an equally diminished capacity. Everybody must have experienced how 
greatly respiration is impeded by a loaded digestion ; and the Common 
Benefactor, when creating an animal destined to display speed, seems to 
have anticipated the probability of such a contingency. The intestines, 
however, are comparatively of large extent. Into these receptacles the 
horse's food passes, after having perfected the first process of digestion, 



20 ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 

and tbere it is subsequently mixed with the fluid secretion of the bowels^ 
whereby the nutritive matter is separated and rendered fit for absorption. 




THE FIGURE OV A HORSE, PORTRATINO THE COMPARATITE IMPORTANCE AND THE RELATIVE SITUATIONa OF 

SOME INTERNAL ORGANS. 

1. The Ivmgs. 2. The Btomach. 3. The colon. 4. The diaphragm. 5. The sitnation of the bladder. 

The smallness of the horse's stomach is in itself sufficient evidence that 
the quadruped was designed to be a frequent feeder. It was not intended 
to endure prolonged abstinence ; for almost in every region which the 
animal may canter over, its legitimate food abounds. Man, however, 
frequently starves the creature, that a loaded stomach may not interfere 
with the activity of the respiration ; he, in his ignorance and in his pre- 
sumption, not being willing to trust to such provision as the All-wise 
had made, anticipatory of this accident. At other times, the quadruped 
is suffered to over-gorge, its keeper paying no regard to its requirements. 
After an excessive fast, a quantity of cut food is placed in the manger, 
and the ravenous horse eats, and eats, till its small stomach, being un- 
equal to the reception of much bolted provender, cracks its walls from 
excessive repletion. Such a circumstance does not demonstrate that 
nature was wrong, or that the equine races were formed unequal to 
their purposes; but it satisfactorily establishes that man cannot, with 
impunity, cross the designs or run counter to the institutions of Omnip- 
otence. 

The horse was created to live off the grass of the field. This habit 
necessitated that much ground should be traveled before the appetite 
of so large a body could be appeased ; and the distance was the greater 
as the animal was sent upon the earth a nice feeder — biting oft the juicy 
tops of the herbage, not tearing up roots and all, like the less scrupulous 



ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 21 

bovine tribe. The time was also lengthened, by the equine race not 
being gifted with a power to ruminate. The ox, having filled the mouth, 
bestows little care upon the comminution of the food ; but the jaw being 
moved twice or thrice, thereby crushing the herbage, so as to form it 
into a pellet, the mouthful is forwarded at once to the rumen. This 
receptacle is large, and is somewhat hastily filled. Then the ox retires 
to a quiet spot and there enjoys its meal ; the grass being regurgitated 
and fully masticated, during which time the animal is said to be "chew- 
ing the cud." The horse has no such power. The food it gathers 
must be prepared by mastication and insalivation before it enters the 
stomach ; consequently, because of the niceness of its appetite, and the 
absolute necessity for each mouthful being separately comminuted, the 
horse, in a free state, has to journey far and to feed long before it can 
lie down and rest. 

The equine race were meant to collect their sustenance from the sur- 
face of the earth ; and, doubtless, the tribe are most at ease when feed- 
ing with the head lowered to the necessary position. A dog naturally 
lowers the mouth when it laps a fluid ; but, if this creature be tempted 
to drink from a saucer held on a level with the ordinary elevation of the 
head, repeated coughing will interrupt the draught and testify to the 
inconvenience experienced by the animal. So, in the instance of the 
horse, we may infer the meal is most relished when the head sinks to 
its gratification ; and, to justify such an inference, anatomy discloses a 
special provision made to that end. Such a proof is, to the author's 
mind, of much more weight than any assertion to the contrary of the 
united British public, as emphasized by the fixed altitude of all the 
mangers throughout the three kingdoms. 

A serious suggestion here forces itself upon the mind of the writer ; 
and it is one the importance of which should recommend it to the con- 
sideration of the public. Laryngeal affections are among the most 
frequent annoyances of every stable, and stand foremost among the 
most vexatious of the many evils which the veterinary surgeon is ex- 
pected to eradicate. 

However, it is proved that if sustenance be swallowed with the head 
at a certain elevation, it must interfere with the most irritable organ 
entering into the composition of the entire body. Then, horse pro- 
prietors would do well to reflect upon the fact, and to say, how far con- 
stantly-repeated provocation may aggravate or induce the fearful laryn- 
geal maladies to which domesticated horses are peculiarly liable. 

The valves existing in the jugular veins are formed by duplicatures 
of its internal lining membrane ; and they are so arranged as to prevent 
the natural tendency to regurgitate when the fluid within the vessel 



23 ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 

moves against gravity. When the head is erect, and the venous cur- 
rent, flowing toward the heart, is of course downward or is favored by 
gravity, then the valves do not act ; but the passage of the blood forces 
the duplicatures of membrane to remain close against the sides of the 
tube. 

The jugulars conduct the dark-colored blood from the brain ; and as 
that important organ cannot endure the smallest pressure, some special 
provision was imperative to carry away the fluid, and also to anticipate 
the possibility of its return to oppress the sensorium. When the horse 
is grazing, the head is lower than the heart, and it naturally occupies 
that position for the greater portion of the twenty-four hours. During 
all that time the venous current must mount against the influence of 
gravitation ; and to aid the reader in properly understanding the means by 
which this is effected, his attention is invited to the following diagrams. 




A SKETCH, BISPLATINO THE ACTION OF THE JBQDIAR VALVES WHEN THE HEAD 18 LOWEBXD TO PEED OPP THE 

QBOUND. 

The elevated crest, therefore, presents a clear channel to the vital 
current. For that reason, the violent action or the most rapid pace of 
the animal never produces congestion of its brain. The racer may sink 
from exhaustion, but does not perish from apoplexy. The head, when 
depressed, however, shows the same canal divided by numerous inter- 
secting marks. Such lines are intended to represent the venous valves, 
which assist the blood in its upward journey, and render impossible the 
slightest pressure upon the sensorium. The first thing which strikes 
the reader, upon beholding the arrangement depicted above, is the vast 
number of valves; and this causes him to inquire, where was the 



ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 23 

necessity for such repeated checks. If the conservation of the brain 
was the only end to be attained, might not that object have been assured 
by a single set of valves ? Such may seem a feasible objection ; but to 
prevent the return current was, as nature appears to have conceived, 
best done by repeated assistance of the onward flow; consequently, 
these numerous valves anticipate the possibility of regurgitation in any 
degree, and provide repeated checks to pressure from the supported 
column of heavy venous blood. 

There remains, however, another provision to be explained. The 
return current has hitherto been spoken of, as though the upward flow 
of fluid was its natural tendency. Still, every person must have per- 
ceived the necessity, when liquid was to be propelled in that direction, 
of something resembling a forcing pump. Such an apparatus nature 
has provided. The head of a healthy animal is depressed only when 
eating or when drinking. During the performance of either function, 
muscles are contracting which compress the soft coats of the veins, and 
thus help to drive the circulation against gravity. 

Thus, during feeding, the head is maintained in a depressed attitude 
for hours together ; and, throughout that space, a most powerful agent 
is in operation. The lower jaw, while the quadruped chances to be 
thus engaged, is in constant motion, being opened and closed either in 
biting or in chewing. When the jaw sinks, the muscles of mastication 
are relaxed, and the venous blood rushes from the cranium into the 
sinuses. But when the bone is raised by those strong motor agents 
which render the bite of a horse so fearful an infliction, the current from 
the brain is for a moment checked, and the contents of the maxillary 
sinuses are energetically propelled up the jugulars. During the first 
half of the action, the valves are in operation, having all the strength 
necessary for the perfect performance of their allotted function; but, 
during the latter part, they are forced against the sides of the vessels by 
the contractive masticatory influence, and cease to act in any way upon 
the internal current of the blood. 

Notwithstanding the strong conviction emphatically asserted by the 
fixed position of the nation's mangers, the author must be obstinate 
enough to disregard human authority, when he has an opportunity of 
studying the living book, written by the unerring hand of nature. 
Valves, though generally present in veins, are never discovered where 
the position of the vessel or other reason would render such provisions 
unnecessary. The Great Creator often makes one thing to serve more 
than one use ; but never creates when His work can answer no profit- 
able purpose. 

The use of veins is simply that of conduits, to convey the refuse 



24 ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 

blood back to the heart, whence it is forced into the lungs, and there 
revivified or rendered equal to its many forms of nuti-ition. This mighty- 
change is very simply effected. When the thorax expands, air merely 
enters the lungs to anticipate the vacuum, which otherwise must be 
occasioned by the enlargement of the chest. The air consists chiefly 
of two substances in a gaseous state — of oxygen and of nitrogen. The 
venous blood, being very near to the inhaled air within the lungs, ex- 
tracts the oxygen from it, and in exchange sends forth a quantity of 
carbonic acid, which is voided with the expired breath. 

This change will take place when blood is extracted from the body. 
If the contents of some vein are exposed to the atmosphere, they will 
in time change from a deep modena to a bright scarlet hue. There is, 




A DIAGRAM, EXPLANATORY OP THE SPECIAL PROVISIONS BISCOVEBABLE IN THE HEAD OF A HORSB. 

1. The nostril leading direct to^2. The larynx, situated at the commencement of the windpipe. 3. The 
tongue. 4. The cesophagus or gullet. 5. The soft palate, which lies upon the tongue and affords a resting- 
place whereon reposes the epiglottis, or the guardian cartilage to the entrance of the larynx (2). 6. The 
guttural pouches, or large membranous and open sacs, containing nothing but atmospheric air. 7. Nasal 
or frontal sinuses. 

however, this difference which marks the two processes. The altera- 
tion, when quickened by vitality, is instantaneous; but the change, 
when it ensues under human inspection, is slowly, and, as it were, labo- 
riously accomplished. The size of the equine nostrils informs us of the 
ample draughts of air which the animal is fitted to appropriate ; it like- 
wise testifies to the high state of that vitality which could necessitate 
such a provision. Creatures with small nostrils, for instance ox and 
dog, are endowed with a limited capacity as respects nasal respiration. 
Yet, as a recompense, such creatures are formed to inhale through the 
mouth. The horse, however, requires no such faculty, its nostrils are 
ample; and, under ordinary circumstances, the mouth is closed by a 



ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 



25 



thick, fleshy screen, which hangs pendulous from the most backward 
portion of the bony palate. 

In the previous diagram, figure 1 indicates the space allotted to the 
nasal chamber, near the external opening to which will be observed the 
numeral 8. The dotted lines surrounding the last figure represent the 
dimensions of a blind pouch, or cul-de-sac, which separates the external 
from the internal wall of the true nostril. The existence of such a pro- 
vision has long been a puzzle to physiologists ; but, would these gentle- 
men have given nature full credit for that care with which the Common 
Parent studies to preserve the beauty of the higher order of His chil- 
dren, and have considered that the horse's 
necessity for different quantities of air varies 
with different times and during different occu- 
pations, they might have sooner comprehended 
the utility of the development. 

Where the false nostril is placed is the only 
poition of the nasal chamber which is not in- 
closed by bone ; consequently it is situated at 
the only place where the cavity admits of dis- 
tention and of contraction. The animal, in a 
passive state, breathes very leisurely ; at such 
times the nostrils would sink inward, or be 
deformed by the unavoidable collapse of the 
wall, were not the false nostril present to per- 
mit its diminution without materially affect- 
ing the external form. But subsequent to 

severe e xertion, everybody must have remarked the nostril spasmodically 
strain, as though each effort would crack the boundaries of the opening. 
At such times the false nostril offers no stubborn opposition to the g'xo- 
lence of respiration, while it serves to soften down the aspect, which, 
if laid bare, might show too fearfully. 

A varied capacity for admitting air also presupposes a varied capacity 
to alter the dimensions of the passages through which the atmosphere 
travels to the lungs. If the reader will again refer to the facial diagram, 
he will perceive a free space, in the center of which is placed the figure 
6. These spaces (one on either side of the face) represent what are 
termed the guttural pouches, they being merely bladders containing air, 
and communicating separately with each nasal chamber. A bladder 
with an external opening is of course most readily compressible. That 
no doubt may be entertained of the use for which these vacant spaces 
were established, they are placed immediately above the course of the 
atmosphere to the lungs, and would contract or dilate according to its 
volume. 




DIAORAM OF THE FALSE NOSTRILS. 

1. The septum nasi. 2. The nasal 
chambers. 3. The upper lip. 4. The 
false nostrils. 



26 ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 

Such a condition of parts imagines the windpipe also able to alter its 
dimensions, so that it may be in accord with other structures; and 
anatomy discloses facts which amply support such a supposition. The 
larynx or opening to the windpipe is composed of several pieces of car- 
tilage and of numerous muscles. The presence of the first plastic and 
highly elastic structure is a proof that the larynx is of no fixed shape, 
while the division of the organ into distinct parts, together with the 
internal and external presence of many muscles of motion, is absolute 
confirmation that the larynx was created not only to assume various 
forms, but also to exhibit different capacities, according to the require- 
ments of the animal economy. 

So also with the windpipe itself, and the tubes which proceed from 
it; these are formed of distinct rings, or of separate pieces of elastic 
cartilage so curved as to form rings, but having free overlapping ends, 
which are operated upon by muscular fiber. 

The diagram inserted below accurately represents such a ring; it 
also shows that the springy cartilage is not made of one thickness 
throughout, but is of that form which the mechanic of the present 
time recognizes as that best adapted for the preservation of continued 
elasticity. The shape and the free ends convinces that such a ring 
must always have a tendency to expand, and by this perception we 
recognize the purpose of the muscle, which draws the extremities over 
each other ; thus two opposing forces regulate the capacity of the circle. 




ONE OF THE OAKTrLAQINOUS SINOS, NUMBERS OF WHICH JOINED TOQETHEB FOBU THE TRA.OHEA OB THE 
WINDPIPE OP THE HORSE. 

a One of the cartilages from the trachea of a horse, having free and overlapping extremities. 
6 The musciilar fiber situated within the ring, which regulates the diameter of the circle. 

The presence of muscular fiber is always absolute proof of motion. 
Where muscle exists and morbid circumstances render motion an impos- 
sibility, the function being destroyed, the motor organ becomes pallid, 



ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 27 

or suffers atrophy. The existence, therefore, of such a structure in a 
healthy condition is always sufficient proof that the function of expan- 
sion and of contraction was present during life ; thus we reach an abso- 
lute certainty that the air-passages of the horse possess a property of 
adapting themselves to the necessities of the animal. 

Then, looking at these structures, we find them not only free, but so 
composed as to be always open, excepting when the momentary swal- 
lowing of the food causes the larynx to close. To breathe is the primary 
necessity of life. Health cannot be maintained unless the blood is 
sufficiently oxygenated; this fact makes us doubt the national wisdom, 
which persists in thrusting the quadruped into stables, rendered close 
and hot by the products of impurity. Oxygen is always deficient 
where impurity prevails ; and, having seen the necessity of its presence, 
because it is the primary requirement of existence, and not because of 
the warmth or oppression which its absence generates, does the author 
presume to oppose his opinion to the decision apparently approved by 
the entire British public. 

Seeing these provisions made hy nature to preserve the beauty of her 
most graceful quadruped, and remarking how profusely, in various forms, 
loveliness is distributed throughout this earth, we cannot slightingly 
esteem the attribute which Perfect Knowledge has impressed, as an 
order of merit, upon its creations. Beauty is here spoken of as distinct 
from gaudiness. The term is employed not to represent the luster of 
the beetle or the vividness of the tropical bird, but to portray that har- 
mony of parts and deep-seated perfection which is present only in the 
more elaborate works of the Creator, and which renders the horse, even 
when deprived of its skin, a picture deserving mortal adoration. "View- 
ing the world and its inhabitants, we must confess that nothing was 
formed without' its uses ; on such a basis, we may safely assert that the 
horse was not made the most beautiful of beasts without intention. 
This quality appeals in a most mysterious and powerful manner to the 
human sympathies. It should influence the mind even more than it 
gratifies the eye, and though avarice may blind humanity to its claims, 
yet even the most hardened cannot witness the destruction of perfection 
without a poignant pang of regret. 

In the head of the animal we discern evidences of the care bestowed 
to preserve a harmony of form. Above the nasal chambers are certam 
hollow spaces, indicated by the figure Y. These empty chambers may 
serve to impart depth to the voice, but as the horse is generally a silent 
creature, such, obviously, must be only a secondary purpose. To pre- 
serve the undulation of the outline was assuredly the primary intent, 
though at the same time the vacancies aid the reverberation of sound. 



28 ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 

and with other structures also lighten that part of. the body in which 
they are situated. 

The passage of the air to the lungs, and the admirable provisions to 
admit its ingress and its egress, without destroying the mild and charac- 
teristic aspect of the quadruped, having been described, it now becomes 
the author's duty to dwell upon the extraordinary conditions which con- 
serve the passages of the food. Referring again to the diagram here 




A DIAOBAH, EXPLANATORY OP THE SPECIAL PROVISIONS DISCOVERABLE IN THE HEAD OP A HORSE. 

1. The nostril leading direct to — 2. The larynx, situated at the commencement of the windpipe. 3. The 
tongue. 4. The oesophagus or gullet. 5. The soft palate, which lies upon the tongue and affords a resting- 
place, whereon reposes the epiglottis, or the guardian cartilage to the entrance of the larynx (2). 6. The 
guttural pouches, or large membranous and open sacs, containing nothing but atmospheric air. 7. Nasal 
or frontal sinuses. 

reproduced, we see the mouth, occupied by the tongue, (figure 3,) on the 
base of which organ reposes a dark body, particularized by the figure 5. 
This last is the soft palate, which drops pendulous from the osseous roof 
of the masticatory orifice. Upon the soft palate lies the most forward of 
the laryngeal cartilages, which is anatomically spoken of as the epiglottis ; 
while the most backward of the laryngeal cartilages, which are called the 
aretenoids, repose beneath the roof of the pharynx. This pharynx is the 
enlarged and muscular commencement of the gullet, the situation and 
direction of which channel is notified by the number 4. 

We thus perceive in its course the food is apparently thrice forbidden 
to enter the gullet of the horse. In the first place, there is the soft 
palate, retained firmly in its position by pressure of the epiglottis. The 
second obstacle we recognize in the opening of the larynx; the third 
impediment appears in the aretenoids, that seem to bar all entrance to 
the tube which leads to the stomach. Moreover, the gullet itself being 
a muscular organ, in the passive state of semi-contraction is closed ; 
thus appearing to oppose a further hinderance to the admission of sus- 



ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 29 

tenance into its proper receptacle. However, upon inquiry, the reader 
will discover these provisions, which appear at first glance to be ranged 
agamst the entrance of nutriment, are in reality only so many elaborate 
protections, all tending to the comfort and well-being of the animal. 

The soft palate so effectually closes the posterior of the mouth as to 
prevent that cavity from Ijeing employed to modulate the voice, though 
such a pecuharity does not distinguish all the equine tribe. Everybody 
must have remarked the bray distend the jaws of an ass, whereas the 
neigh flutters only the nostril of the horse, the different channels through 
which the sound has to emerge fully accounting for the marked contrast 
which is conspicuous in the voices of the animals. Moreover, the horse 
does occasionally vomit ; but, save when the organization is disturbed 
by the agonies of death, the voided matter is generally, ejected through 
the nostrils. 

However, the reader will perhaps best understand how the apparently 
closed cavity is rendered subservient to its uses by the process of deglu- 
tition being described. A portion of food is bitten off by the incisors ; 
the substance is, by the action of the tongue, next passed to the molars, 
or is placed between the grinding teeth. There it is thoroughly com- 
minuted. While this is being performed, the saliva is secreted and min- 
gled with the mass, so as to render it quite soft or pultaceous. In this 
state it is formed into a pellet, and is then pressed by the tongue against 
the palate or roof of the mouth. The morsel, being now round and 
soft, is afterward, by a more energetic contraction of the tongue, driven 
against the pendulous palate, which seemingly closes the posterior of 
the orifice. 

The last organ lies in that direction which enables it to offer a formi- 
dable resistance, especially when supported by the base of the tongue, to 
any substance proceeding from the stomach. In the contrary direction 
it is only held down by the epiglottis ; that comparatively feeble body is 
forced to yield before the greater contractile power of the lingual organ. 
The epiglottis flies forward, covering the opening to the larynx, in which 
position the posterior cartilages or the aretenoids also fold over the more 
forward protector. A secure floor is thus formed, preventing anything 
from falling into the windpipe, where intrusion of the smallest substance 
would provoke the most alarming spasm ; while a roof to the passage is 
also made by the raised, soft palate, whereby the nasal chambers are 
protected from the encroachment of undigested matters. 

A safe way being thus provided, the pellet is shot into the pharynx, 
which, independently of the will, immediately contracts upon any sub- 
stance coming within its reach, and drives the morsel into the oesophagus 
or gullet. The tube, surprised by the presence of the morsel, is obliged 



30 ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 

to separate for its reception ; but it immediately closes on the stranger, 
thereby driving it lower down, when, the contractility of the fiber being 
again aroused, it is once more driven onward, and this action is continued 
until the food is safely lodged within the walls of the stomach. 

Few persons can comprehend the above explanation without being 
forcibly impressed by the beauty and the nicety of the whole arrange- 
ment. The elevation of the soft palate closes the nostrils, and at the 
same time provides a floor for the gaping passage to the lungs. The 
motion of the soft palate nudges the epiglottis, which lies upon it and 
causes that cartilage to bend over the opening to the larynx. The bow- 
ing down of the epiglottis induces the aretenoids also to stoop, thus 
forming a safe floor to the necessitated passage. Across the chasm, now 
rendered secure, the food is shot into the pharynx and conveyed to the 
stomach, the whole process being accomplished in an instant, for the act 
of swallowing provokes no sensible impediment to the continuance of 
respiration. 

These things, however instructive or amusing they may be when 
related, nevertheless are too little thought of; nor is the horse itself 
suflSciently considered. "Were the lessons, which its body should teach 
mankind, properly understood, those abuses, that are at present limited 
to no class, would instantaneously cease to be practiced. Most people 
of this country, however, treat the horse as though it were an original 
inhabitant of the English climate. Rich and poor in this respect are 
equally faulty, save that those are most to blame who, possessing wealth, 
can command the leisure requisite for inquiry, and, being blessed with 
ability to gratify their inclinations, have no excuse for lack of sympathy 
in the pressure of necessity. The great error, however, consists in a 
national carelessness about the matter. The slave is accepted as a prop- 
erty; its life is wasted; its body is abused; man sleeps happy in the 
belief that animals were created for his use. To render them subservient 
to his pleasure is the amount of all that he conceives to be his duty. 
The winter's straw yard and the autumn's run are both follies — sadly 
common, but nevertheless deserving the condemnation of all good or 
thoughtful men. 

The animal carries about its person the signs which testify it once 
roamed within a warmer climate than our northern region. The certifi- 
cate of its origin is legibly written in the eye of the quadruped. This 
organ mutely attests, that the temperate zone was not the birthplace of 
its progenitors. It has long been a captive in Britain ; but the proof of 
its proper dwelling-place no time can obliterate. The eye of the horse, 
like that of the camel, displays a special provision, fitting the creature to 
endure the strongest glare of a tropical sun, even when reflected from a 



ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 31 

level waste of shining sand ; or, in other words, the first parents of the 
tribe must have careered across some burning desert. 





THE PUPIL OF THE HORSE'S EYE IN THE OPPOSITE STATES OP CONTEACTION AND DILATATION, SHOWING THE 
SITUATION AND THE USE OP THE COBPOBA NIQRA. 

The corpora nigra, in the eye of the camel, are black bodies, pendent 
from the margin of the iris. The purpose of so special a provision is not 
apparent, when darkness occasions the opening to dilate ; but when the 
glare is powerful — so powerful as to induce blindness even in the natives 
of those lands where a concentrated light is possible — then the intent of 
its Beneficent Creator becomes apparent. 

The pupil of the horse's eye is never circular, being, when much 
dilated, rather oblong in figure ; but, when exposed to the direct rays of 
the summer's sun, the opening energetically contracts. Then the pupil 
is best represented by a mere line; for the edges of the iris at such a 
season seemingly touch each other. In this condition, the uses of the 
corpora nigra can hardly be mistaken : the little black bodies appear to 
fit into one another, forming apparently an impenetrable network opposed 
to the entrance of too strong a glare. 

Let the author and the reader, however, temperately consider this 
matter. The pupil in the eye of the horse is not more distant than two 
inches from the origin of the optic nerve. When the division to be seen 
through is so close, and the object to be viewed is exhibited under the 
strongest natural light, the merest crevice will be equal to all the pur 
poses of perfect vision. The full glare of the sun alone occasioning the 
horse's pupil to contract, that which causes the opening to almost shut 
also provides the excess of light, which alone could render useful that 
narrow division through which objects must be recognized; while the 
dark bodies, being stationed before the point of sight, answer the pur- 
pose of the smoke which lads load upon glass when they are ambitious 
of gazing at the sun. 

The reader must have remarked the pupillary line through which the 
domestic cat exercises perfect vision during the bright noon of a mid- 
summer day. The eye of the feline race is, however, possessed of no 
other protection. The contraction may be the effect of weakness of 



32 



ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 



sight; at all events, the author thinks he may conclude the far-famed 
eye of the cat to be inferior to that of a horse. The domestic mouser is 
popularly said to see in the dark; the steed has been long known to 
penetrate the gloom which sets the strained vision of its master at de- 
fiance ; but it remains to be granted that both horse and cat are equally 
fitted to roam by night. The habits of the herbivorous creature would, 
however, assert it to be possessed of such a faculty ; and the anatomist 
discovers in the visual organ of the animal a provision specially adapting 
it for these peregrinations. 

Upon the upper and forward surface of the inner, dark chamber, and 
so placed as to catch, to concentrate, and to reflect every stray ray of 
light upon the optic nerve, the tapidum lucidum is discovered within the 
globe of the horse's eye. This structure is, after death, very bright or of 
metallic luster, and, because of its concave form, is admirably adapted to 
its particular function. That no doubt may remain as to the design of 
such a provision, the tapidum lucidum is found only within the eyes 
of those quadrupeds created to roam by night. It is altogether absent 
in such animals as were destined to move about during daylight. 




DIAGRAM, EXPOSINQ THE INTERIOR OP THE HORSE'S ETE, AND DISPLAYING THE SITUATION OF THE TAPIDUM 
LUCIDUM, OR GLOSSY SURFACE DEVELOPED WITHIN THE ORGAN. 

Tne tapidum lucidum, therefore, viewed in conjunction with the cor- 
pora nigra, becomes an inferential proof that the horse originally inhab- 
ited some land in which the coolness of the night off'ered the greatest 
temptation for pleasant pasturage. The Mighty Benefactor, conse- 
quently, formed His creature to enjoy the bounties among which it was 
permitted to roam. We know the cat was imported from the tropics ; 
and, seeing that the eyes of both animals, in one marked particular, 
resemble each other, we may conjecture the horse originally inhabited a • 



ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 3o 

warmer climate; while the likeness between the equine race and "the 
ship of the desert" demonstrates that that locality was the hottest portion 
of the earth. 

The eye of the horse is also provided with a power which could sel- 
dom be needed in these Northern climes, where the fleetness of the 
equine tribe might readily set at defiance the comparative feebleness of 
all the predatory beasts of prey. Besides, the wooded state of this 
country must have rendered the presence of telescopic vision unneces- 
sary. Upon the far-stretching level of the desert, however, where 
larger and more ferocious animals prowl by night, the possession of 
such a faculty would be a needed protection. Accordingly, we find the 
interior of the' globe to consist chiefly of water, the outward covering 
being formed of a tough substance, which is easily compressible ; while 
all the hidden portion of the exterior is enveloped by muscular fiber. 

Situated directly upon the forward portion of the ball are the two 
oblique muscles. These are inserted at opposite places, and each pulls 
in a contrary direction to the other. The two, simultaneously acting, 
could not move the organ, but would, obviously, tend to fix it or to 
render the globe stationary. The outer substance of the horse's eyes 
is composed of a thick and pliable covering, purely tendinous in char- 
acter. The interior consists of fluid perfectly pure and transparent. At 
the back of all is placed the optic nerve ; while the exterior is enveloped 
by several thick and straight muscles. 




diagram, displatinq the coating of muscular fiber wmoh covers the soft globe of the 

horse's eye. 

The motor agents are endowed with an ability to contract or to 
shorten in their reach. When parts of this nature operate upon a 
plastic substance, which is filled only with a fluid, they must of neces- 
sity tend to alter the shape of that body on which they repose. The 
oblique muscles act to prevent rotation; the pressure, therefore, can 
only compress, elongate, and force backward the ball of the eye. By 
such a capacity that telescopic property is produced which man feebly 
imitates by a complex and costly machine. 

3 



34 ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 

An&tomy also discovers another important function proper to the eye 
of the horse, which equally indicates a sandy plain to have been the 
original habitat of the tribe. 

The soft sand of the Southern region would form a soil over which 
the equine foot could safely travel. The horn, in an unprotected state, 
was created to journey over so yielding and so dry a surface. Harder 
ground is poorly suited to the tread of the animal, a fact well established 
by the brittle hoof being among the recognized diseases of this coun- 
try ; while a wet soil is by no means advantageous, which circumstance 
is amply illustrated by the weak horn characteristic of those animals 
reared on the fens of Lincolnshire. The level of the desert presented 
that combination of qualities which could render the exhibition of its 
speed a delight to the unbroken quadruped ; while the warmth of the 
climate would afford the medium in which a lustrous coat testifies to 
the health of a beautiful body. 

In opposition to the above inference is the recorded fact that, when 
English horses were transported as cavalry into Egypt, the dryness of 
the climate frequently caused the hoofs so to crack as to render the 
animals totally useless. This circumstance, when first learned, appears 
to weigh heavily against the conclusion toward which the author's 
arguments were tending. In reality, however, it establishes nothing; 
it fades before rational investigation. A life, after having left its native 
country, does not necessarily thrive when it revisits the land of its 
origin. Englishmen, who have spent their youth in India, generally 
return to the variableness and to the humidity of this climate, and com- 
plain of the country which, when it was quitted, appeared to be cursed 
with no evil properties. Negroes captured by British cruisers, and set 
free on the far-famed colony of emancipation, are ascertained to perish 
the more rapidly on their return to Africa. These poor people are said 
to sink more speedily than even Europeans succumb before the clime of 
flame. 

The speed of the horse would enable the quadruped to travel with 
comparative ease between those remote spots of verdure which lie scat- 
tered throughout the desert. The distance which divides these luxuriant 
localities could present no insurmountable obstacle to the unburdened 
steed, since the domesticated animal has carried its rider more than one 
hundred miles. The horse can endure long fasts, and even sustain 
severe thirst — the colon being a portion of the bowel generally devoted 
to the store of liquid nutriment; but the distance must have been 
accomplished in a cloud of sand sufficiently dense to blind the creature 
which traveled in the center of a moving herd. 

The eye of the horse, however, is by nature provided with s protec- 



ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 



35 




tion against so terrible an affliction, which would expose any wild 
animal to a fearful death. The outer mem- 
brane of the eye is almost limited to cover- 
ing the more forward or transparent surface, 
being thence reflected upon the interior of 
the eyelids. This membrane, when in a 
single layer, is incapable of communicating 
to the sensorium more than a feeling of un- 
easiness. When single, it may be touched, 
burnt, and cut, without producing actual 
pain ; but the unpleasant sensation provokes 
a desire to wink, and the instant the lid 
descends upon the globe, or from the mo- 
ment when two surfaces of the membrane 
are in apposition, agony ensues. 

The membrane now under consideration 
renders it an impossibility for any substance 
to get "into the eye;" the pain present, 
when such an assertion is commonly made, 
gives the strongest proof that the foreign 
body is retained between two surfaces of 
that delicate structure which is called con- 
junctiva. Dryness is, however, destructive of the feeling and of the 
transparency of this membrane. Nature, therefore, has created a special 
gland for assuring its perpetual moisture. This last body is situated 
immediately beneath the surface, under the upper lid and toward the 
outer corner of the eye. It is, on ordinary occasions, stimulated to 
send forth its secretion by the act of winking; and the outer corner 
being situated above the inner corner of the horse's eye, the moisture 
is, by the motion of the lid, instantaneously brushed over the circular 
globe. 

The gland of the horse, however, has a distinct use not shared by any 
similar provision to be found in the eye of man. In the human being, 
grief or pain provokes the secretion ; these are always accompanied by 
floods of tears. Some writers assert they have witnessed agony induce 
tears in the quadruped ; but the author has seen fearful operations in- 
flicted on the noble animal — he has heard huge groans testify to the 
sufferings endured ; yet he has never beheld the eye overflow, or seen 
anything present which approximated to weeping. 

Pain, wben occasioned by some foreign body between the two layers 
of membrane, produces not weeping, but a positive overflow of liquid, 
the purpose of which will be best explained after the reader has been 



SIAGBAM, EXPLANATORY OF THE SITUA- 
TION OF THE LACHRYMAL GLAND, OR 
THE SOURCE OF TEARS, AND OF OTHER 
PARTS PROPER TO THE HORSE'S EYE. 

a. The outer angle, h. The puncta 
lachryinalis, or round body, situated at 
the inner angle of the eye. c. The lach- 
rymal gland, covered by the upper lid 
and placed near the outer angle of the 
eye. e e. The position, extent, and 
doubling of the conjunctiva, or of the 
investing mucous membrane, which 
envelops the outer portion of the 
globe and lines the lids. 



31^ 



ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 



made acquainted with a particular organ situated at the inner angle of 
the eye. 

The lower corner of the organ is characterized by a round body, 
which, being enveloped in a single layer of membrane, is strictly with- 
out sensation. Upon this body the grime of the human eye accumu- 
lates, and we shall shortly perceive that 
its presence in the horse is not without 
a purpose. Next to the foregoing de- 
velopment, and so placed as to accu- 
rately fit the globe, is a structure which 
anatomists name the cartilago nictitans, 
or the winking cartilage. The more 
forward portion of this cartilage pos- 
sesses a fine edge, while its base pre- 
sents a broad surface, which reposes 
upon the fat at the back of the orbit. 
Now, as fat is not compressible by 
ordinary force, whenever the muscles draw the globe backward, the 
adipose matter is driven forward ; this last carries with it the cartilago 
nictitans, which is consequently projected suddenly over the surface of 
the globe. But when the muscles relax, the fat resumes its original 
place, and with it the cartilage also retires. 




THE CARTILAGO NICTITANS, WHEN REMOVED 
FROM THE EYE OF A HORSE. 




SIAOSAH, TO IimSTBATE THB ACTION OP THE CARTILAOO NICTITANS UPON THE HOKSE'S ETB. 



When any foreign body gets between the two layers of membrane, 
instant winking results ; the gland, stimulated by the motion of the lid, 
sends forth a gush of liquid. It is not simply a tear or two, but a 
deluge of fluid is emitted; this flood, aided by the action of the lid, 



ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 37 

carries the foreign substance in the course of gravity, or from the exter- 
nal toward the internal corner of the globe. While this is taking place, 
the pain also excites the powerful muscles of the eye to spasmodic 
activity. With every spasm the fat is displaced, and the cartilage darts 
from the inner corner partially over the round surface of the eyeball. 
The process continues until the substance is partly brushed and partly 
washed to within the range of the fine anterior edge of the cartilage ; 
when, by its withdrawal, the foreign particle is lodged upon the round 
insensitive body developed at the inner corner of the eye. Toward the 
last point the tears naturally tend, and any exciting substance, when 
there placed, is soon floated on to the hair of the cheek. 

By joining these many proofs, we gain a moral certainty concerning 
the region whence the horse originated. The eye is seen to be gifted 
not only with a special provision against the glare of the desert, but it 
also possesses a peculiar development fitting the animal to enjoy the 
cool pasturage of the night. The eye is likewise endowed with a tele- 
scopic power suited to sweep the far-stretching horizon of the sandy 
waste. Moreover, the organ discloses a special apparatus evidently 
designed to overcome those accidents to which inhabitants of arid 
plains, when rapidly traveling long distances, and in large herds, were 
exposed. 

The reader, perhaps, somewhat wearied by this lengthened descrip- 
tion, may, however, be inclined to exclaim, '' So that we possess the 
horse, what care we whence the beast was derived ?" There can be no 
crumb of knowledge so small, but it is worth man's while to stoop and 
pick up the treasure. Its uses may not be apparent at the time of its 
discovery, but its application is certain before long to repay the person 
who prizes it. Taking the instance just narrated about the horse, an 
assured knowledge of the land whence the beautiful stranger came 
enables man the better to feel for its requirements ; attention to the wel- 
fare of its life will be repaid by more lasting service to the master who 
claims it as a property. By disregarding this teaching, we subject the 
quadruped to suffering, which cramps the limbs, limits the utility, and 
shortens the existence, thus stinting the worth and curtailing the lease 
of the possession. 

When writing the foregoing, the author is aware that gentlemen of 
known probity have reported the existence of herds of wild horses career- 
ing free and unbroken over the plains of Asia. Such was formerly said 
to be the case, and was also credited as an established fact with regard 
to Southern America. Subsequent inquiry, however, has shown that 
the wild animals of the pampas are no more than neglected flocks roam- 
ing, apparently M'^ithcnt an owner, but which, in reality, are allowed thus 



38 



ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 



to gain a cheap livelihood by a careless proprietor. These American 
herds are liable to the claim of some man, almost as wild as the animals 
themsilves; so also the reported Asian quadrupeds turn out to be the 
recognized possession of some wandering Tartar. 

However, to leave the consideration of particular parts, and to view 
the entire body anatomically, the vertebrae or spinal chain, as forming 
the base of the skeleton, becomes of primary importance. The back- 
bone of the horse consists of various pieces, so firmly held together by 
interlacing ligaments and muscles that students, when desirous of divid- 
ing the spine of a dead animal, often find it easier to saw the bones 
asunder than to separate them with the knife. The neck is composed 
of seven bones ; the back is formed by eighteen vertebrae ; the loins 
consist of six pieces, and the sacrum is made up of five distinct parts, 
although long before adultism all of these last are united by osseous 
junction. 




SOME OF THE DEEP-SEATED MUSCLES IMMEDIATELY IITVESTING THE SPINE OF THE HORSE. 

1. The hair. 2. The skin. 3. The adipose, or fatty tissue directly under the skin. 4. The hursie mncoeas, 
or synovial sacks placed above each dorsal spine. 5. The yellow, elastic ligament connecting; the dorsal 
spines together. 6. The spines of the dorsal vertebra;. 7. The semi-spinalis dorsi muscle. S. The heads of 
tlie ribs. 9. The levatores costarum muscle. 10. The ribs. 

The sacrum, therefore, is not reckoned among the true vertebra, the 
number of which, however, amounts to thirty -two. Of these many divi- 
sions, the bones of the neck alone are not subject to deviations. The 
lumbar may be five or seven, and the dorsal limitation is either one 
above or one below the usual amount, neither of which varieties are of 
very rare occurrence. The links of the back-bone differ in form and in 
function. The dorsal vertebrae seem, at first sight, to possess no lateral 
processes ; whereas in the lumbar region these developments are so ex- 
tended as to constitute the pi'incipal features of the several parts. So 
also the two first bones of the neck enjoy great motion, and all the links 
of the neck are very far from stationary. But the parts of the back, on 
the contrary, are all but fixed; yet, although each is endowed with a 



ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 39 

very limited movement, the whole is gifted with an evident elasticity 
which affords an easy seat to the rider. 




THE SPINE OF THE HOKSE, OR THE BASIS OF ITS ANATOMICAL FRAMEWOEK. 

Along the top of the back-bone runs a strong cord of yellow, elastic 
fiber, which unites the several parts, holding these firmly together as one 
whole. The elastic cord, however, passes directly from the last dorsal 
spine, to be fixed into the back portion of the skull, thus skipping over 
all the bones of the neck. The fibers of this cord are longitudinally 
arranged ; and however elastic such a substance may be, the dorsal 
arrangement would not allow of that freedom of motion which was 
requisite in the neck of an animal which was to crop its food from the 
surface of the earth. 

The necessity, however, was fully met by an elastic cloth being, as it 
were, thrown over the cord, and extending thence to the bones of the 
neck. By this arrangement, frequent attachments were avoided and 
grace of outline was preserved, while no deterioration was made in that 
provision by means of which the heavy head is supported without ap- 
parent strain upon the muscular fiber. One end of the elastic expansion 
being inserted into the cervical bones, all the ease and beauty of move- 
ment is rendered possible by the retractile property of the cloth-like hga- 
ment being fully equal to the sustenance of the weight, but not strong 
enough to resist the action of the muscles when excited. Thus, the 
muscles situated at the base of the neck serve to depress the head ; the 
elastic cloth answers as a counterpoising force, which steadies the move- 
ment; the action of the motor agents near the crest, aided by the liga- 
mentous elasticity of the neck, serve to elevate the part, while the mus- 
cular power at the base of the bones regulates and guides the upward 
motion. 

But the reader may be desirous to learn how far the back of the animal 
is suited to endure the weight of the rider. The bones of the spine, not 



40 ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 

being joined by osseous union, may give solidity to the part ; but it must 
be self-evident tlie chain possesses no inherent power to sustain the 
smallest pressure. Therefore, the body of the rider, when placed upon 
the back, cannot be upheld by bone alone. The weight must repose 
upon the muscles and the ligaments by which the solid parts are kept 
together. Man, therefore, when mounted upon a horse, is seated upon 
elastic substances, animated by the powers of vitality. This circumstance 
readily accounts for the pleasurable feelings and the lightness of spirit 
communicated to the master when within the saddle ; although the deli- 
cacy of the structures on which the burden is cast should also instruct 
that an elaborately and a delicately organized body ought to be shielded 
from labor until age has confirmed and strengthened the several portions 
of the frame. 

When contemplating the uses for which the quadruped was created, 
we perceive the necessity of that huge mass of muscular fiber with which 
the back is cushioned. We also recognize the beauty of intention which 
those numerous supports, called ribs, embody and declare. These props, 
eighteen on either side, must greatly strengthen the main structure, 
although each is of a loose texture, and every one is more or less pliable. 
The innate property of elasticity belonging to the horse's ribs seems to 
have been long known to country urchins, who, out of these bones, have 




THE THORACIC FRAMEWORK OF THE HORSE. 

Showing the manner in which the ribs spring from the spine to unite upon the bone of the breast. 

been accustomed to form bows whence to propel juvenile arrows. Na- 
ture, however, seems not to have been satisfied with this provision, for 
the inferior portion of the ribs consists of cartilage, which anatomists 
speak of as the most elastic substance in the body ; this yielding termin- 
ation rests on the sternum or breast-bone, a structure more than three 
parts of which are composed of the last-named material. 

The manner in which the fore limb is united to the trunk likewise 



ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 41 

offers matter for the reader's admiration. Considering that the horse is 
a beast of burden, man, were he designing a creature fitted for such uses, 
would assuredly have sought to gain strength by the insertion of bone. 
Bone, however, would have interfered with^ that agility which, no less 
than strength, is an attribute of the horse's body. The presence even of 
a clavicle joining the shoulder to the thorax would have exposed a jump- 
ing quadruped to repeated fractures. Nature, therefore, bound the parts 
together by interlacing fibers. And to afford an idea of the marvelous 
care bestowed on this arrangement, the following diagram is submitted 
to the contemplation of the reader. 




SOME OF THE MUSCLES WHICH ATTACH THE FORE LIMB TO THE TKUNX. 

Tbree muscles have already been removed, viz., the panniculus carnosuB, the levator humeri, and the 
latiseimus dorei. 

1. The trapezius. 2. The seratus magnus. 3. The subscapulo hyoideus. 4. The rhomboideus. 5. The 
pectoralis anticus. 6. The anterior portion of the pectoralis maguus. 7. The pectoralis parvus. 8. The 
pectoralis transversus. 

The rider, therefore, when mounted on a horse, is not only seated upon 
fleshy and ligamentous fiber, and upheld by pliable bone based upon elas- 
tic cartilage, but as the thorax is supported by the anterior extremity, he 
actually swings upon the strongest and most yielding substance known 
throughout animated nature. Could mortal ingenuity, by the exercise 
of any force or duration of thought, have perfected so exquisite a work ? 
But the mind is abased and humbled before the proofs of Superior Wis- 
dom, when we find that all hitherto made known is but a part of the 
lavish provision bestowed upon the perfection of God's most beautiful 
gift to man. 

The bones within the fore limb are not self-sustaining. Remove their 
coverings, and they will not retain their several places, but will fall in a 
heap upon the earth. The fact proves that the osseous framework. 



12 



ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 



altJioiigli it confers solidity upon tlie body, is nevertheless upheld by 
the structures with which it is enveloped. The bony column, however, 
when united and bound together, exhibits an intention of bestowing elas- 
ticity quite as much as of conferring strength. In the first place, the 
solid column is crowned by a broad but thin plate of cartilage, the yield- 
ing property of which has already been dilated upon ; so that the trunk 
not only swings upon living fiber, but the primary weight is endured by 
what anatomists designate "the most elastic substance in the body," of 
a shape and form which develops to the uttermost its bending property. 
The arrangement of the shoulder-blade and the bone on which it rests 
being angular, evidently contemplates a yielding to any force coming 
from above. The two next bones cannot be viewed as meant solely for 
strength; though the several parts of the knee and shank are slightly 
columnar in their order, nevertheless the pastern 
bones again display an intent to yield rather than 
a design at gaining decided resistance. Yet, even 
there remains further food for contemplation when 
viewing these dry bones of a quadruped. The 
shock, of which the rider complains when doomed 
to cross the trunk of some poor animal whose 
body has been disorganized by abuse, is occa- 
sioned by the bones having been, through dis- 
ease, thrown from their natural positions. 

Engineers well know that sand will oppose the 
force of a cannon ball, the power being rapidly 
exhausted which has to travel through numerous 
separated particles. Each grain of sand, there- 
fore, being distinct, a bag of that substance offers 
a good preventive to the concussion produced 
by the explosive force of gunpowder. But the 
reader, when endeavoring to ascertain the pro- 
visions instituted by Benevolence to save the 
equestrian from concussion, can at once perceive 
the purpose for which the osseous support of the 
limb was formed of several pieces, as well as ap- 
preciate the beauty and grace of motion which is 
thereby assured. 

Looking at the illustration, we observe that certain of the component 
solids of the limbs are altogether out of the perpendicular, and conse- 
quently must receive other support than is derived from the bone imme- 
diately below them. Indeed, no portion of the structure is decidedly 
column9,r in its arrangement. Either the parts are crooked, or they lean 




THE BONES OF THE FORE LIMB. 



ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 



43 



in a direction from the plummet line. The angularity of the two top- 
most pieces can, however, not possibly escape notice; neither can the 
slanting position of the pastern bones fail to attract attention. Noting 
these peculiarities, the reader recognizes that the 
bones of the fore extremity cannot be self-sus- 
taining, but they must be upheld or retained in 
their relative situations by the structures which 
surround them in the living subject. 

The scapula and humerus, or the two topmost 
bones, are rendered firm by the joint action of 
the powerful extensor and flexor muscles apper- 
taining to the shoulder. The pastern bones trans- 
fer their weight to the strong tendon which passes 
immediately under their lower surfaces. The other 
bones are held in their situations by the energetic 
contractility of the muscles which embrace them. 
Hence it is obvious the rider, when seated on the 
back of a horse, is not upheld by any osseous re- 
sistance. His burden reposes upon living fiber. 
The bone limits the sphere of contractility, and 
thus gives firmness to the limbs ; but it endures 
no portion of the weight. So exquisitely has na- 
ture adapted her creature to its uses, that in the 
horse man is provided with a means of convey- 
ance remarkable for fleetness, but more wonderful 
for the elastic and buoyant seat which an admi- 
rable body affords to an ungrateful master. 

Had weight been cast upon bone, the shock 
communicated by placing the foot upon the ground would have been so 
powerful as must have made the saddle a seat of torture. This is no 
speculative conjecture, but it is a deduction drawn from positive fact. 
Hard work causes the pastern bones to quit the slant, which is their 
natural position, and to assume a more upright direction. They very 
rarely become actually perpendicular; but as they verge toward that 
attitude, so as partially to transfer their weight from the tendon to one 
another, the jar communicated to the rider becomes most distressing. 
The tendons of the foreleg are, therefore, of all importance ; the utility 
of these structures cannot be better illustrated than by appealing to the 
terrible effects which ensue upon injury to these organs. 

However, that the reader may fully appreciate the simplicity and the 
seeming complexity developed in the various arrangements exposed upon 
dissection, the next illustration is inserted, against which numerous lines 




THE PRINCIPAL FLEXOR TEN- 
DONS OF THE FORr.LBQ. 

1. The perforans. 2. The per- 
foratus. 3, 4. Accessory muscleg. 
5, 6. Kestraining ligaments. 7. 
The pedal cartilage divided. 8. 
The navicular bone. 



44 



ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 



are fixed. Tbose marks indicate the points wliere a substance, like to 
white of egg, is interposed between tlie extremities of the bones. Each 
separate bone thus not only rests upon a liquid, but the ends of these 
formations are likewise -tipped with cartilage, thus 
doubly securing the ease of progression. Nor 
have the perfection of these various arrangements 
received full justice, for concussion of the foot has 
not only to travel through different bones tipped 
by cartilage and separated by the interposition of 
a fluid, but it also has to progress through the 
various structures of which the limb itself is com- 
posed, and to travel in different directions. 

So elaborate an arrangement, or one better 
fitted to answer its intention, no human study 
could invent. Man has for ages labored to dis- 
arrange the parts thus admirably adjusted ; when 
so employed, he has only followed the example 
of the savage who destroys the product he is in- 
capable of understanding. No injury; no wrong, 
no cruelty can be conceived which barbarity has 
not inflicted on the most generous of man's many 
willing slaves. While this has been going for- 
ward, nations, at a vast outlay, have retained 
expensive establishments to entreat the mercies 
of a Superior to be lavished upon themselves, 
and at the moment these people were boasting 
aloud of their refined feelings or of their exalted 
civilization, they have been incapable of sympa- 
thizing with the agony which was imprisoned within the walls of their 
premises. 

Looking toward the quarters of the horse, we perceive the spines of 
the lumbar and sacral bones arranged in so peculiar a manner as to 
excite remark. Those of the loins bend forward, while those of the 
haunch incline backward, thus leaving a free space dividing the upper- 
most bones of two neighboring regions. There must be a reason for so 
evident a design. Inspecting the last lumbar bone, we ascertain it to be 
united by its lateral processes, yet it does not touch the first sacral body, 
all other parts of the chain joining at their centers. 

Here is cause for reflection! What takes place at this spot which 
could render imperative such an arrangement ? In what action is the 
inclination of the trunk so opposite to the position of the quarters as to 
render imperative such a special provision as is here exemplified in the 




THE artist's idea OF A HOUSE'S 
FORE LIMB. 

The lines indicate the places 
where B3'novia (or a fluid re- 
sembling white of egg) is in- 
terposed between the different 
structures. 



ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 



45 



skeleton ? In prancing, in rearing, and in jumping, the hind legs are 
firmly planted upon the earth ; then, by exertion of the powerful mus- 
cles of the quarters, the forward trunk is 
raised. This action could not have been 
exhibited had the spines of the sacral bones 
ranged in the same direction as those of the 
lumbar vertebrsB ; and to enforce the reason 
of this evident provision a free space char- 
acterizes this particular joint, others being 
formed by the interposition of cartilage. 

The skeleton of the quarters is charac- 
terized by further distinctive peculiarities. 
The sacral bones are fixed one to another, 
and joining them at the spine is the huge 
hip-bone. This is the heaviest of the many 
weighty pieces w^hich compose the osseous 
frame of the horse. It is irregular in form, 
and remarkable for an unusually rugged 
exterior. An anatomist, by simply inspect- 
ing it, could designate its uses, so emphat- 
ically is everywhere written the origin and 
insertion of powerful motor muscles. In 
every ridge, in every indentation, in every 
inequality anatomy discovers such a pur- 
pose; thus, when "the gnarled and bossy" 

developments upon this bone are viewed in conjunction with the solid 
and uneven appearance of the lower osseous supports of the hind limb, 
no person properly instructed can doubt that the quarters are peculiarly 
the seat of muscular power in the equine race. 

Then the angular arrangement of the bones suggests the immediate 
purpose of flexion and extension. "Yes," interrupts the reader, "that 
is true ; but supposing the loose bones of the skeleton only to exist, what 
was to suggest the angularity of arrangement ?" Such a fact could be 
thus readily ascertained. The bodies of other animals would inform the 
anatomist of the relative situations of the stifle and the elbow joints, 
while the different lengths and points of bearing in the fore and hind 
extremities would instruct him concerning all the rest. 

But no knowledge could enable the anatomist to infer the gracefulness 
of form and flow of line which characterizes the body of the horse, even 
when deprived of its outward investment. Here is a sketch of the quar- 
ter after partial dissection. It scarcely awakens the disgust which ana- 
tomical labors generally create. The elegance which distinguishes the 




THE BONES OF THE HIND EXTREMITY. 



46 



ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 




THE HrND QUARTEK OF A HORSE, FROM 
■WHICH THE SKIN HAS BEEN REMOVED. 



lirmg creature is hardly lost — certainly it is not entirely destroyed — and 
the author is acquainted with no other body which could equally endure 
so harsh a test. 

The inferior bones of the subjoined sketch lead to the foot; but as the 

osseous structure of this part was illus- 
trated in a previous sketch, and as the 
fore and hind feet of the horse are in the 
leading particulars alike, the author will 
not fill valuable space by unnecessary 
repetition. However, the hind foot of 
the horse being the point whence all the 
strain of propulsion must proceed, the 
part, fi'om such a cause alone, will be 
liable to certain distortions. The evils 
engendered by the cruel impatience of 
mankind, which forces the colt into too 
early labor, causes the natural position 
of tlie member to become altered. The 
pastern bones grow to be erect, and, 
should the toil still be enforced, the 
shank bone afterward projects. If these warnings are disregarded, inhu- 
manity provokes the heels to be drawn upward, and a valuable helpmate 
is thus incapacitated from assisting man in his earthly task. 

While writing of the horse, it should not be forgotten that in this coun- 
try there is another animal which properly belongs to the equine race, 
and which is liable to most of the evils as well as worthy of much of 
the commendation that has been already pronounced, as though these 
referred only to one specimen of the tribe. The donkey is much misun- 
derstood. Because its name has become a figure of reproach, no writer 
hitherto has dilated seriously upon its requirements, although several 
have been igngrantly sentimental, where suffering needed only truth to 
plead in its behalf. The animal must have its uses, or its breed would 
not be preserved. 

The fact establishes that the creature is of service to mankind, since 
the life, whose season of utility has expired, like the dodo, soon ceases to 
exist. It is, however, chiefly the property of those whose feehngs are 
subject to their necessities. The purchase of such a chattel is compara- 
tively easy; the food is the refuse of the stable; but the work is often 
disproportionately heavy, for the ass too frequently belongs to those 
whose daily round of toil would tax the strength of the largest horse. 

The prejudice which encircles this miserable being appears to be coun- 
tenanced even in the dissecting rooms of the veterinary profession A nat- 



ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 4^' 

omy is a science the only merit of which depends upon its being a literal 
record of facts ; yet students, at the before-mentioned places, are fond of 
alluding to the larynx of the ass, as displaying a peculiar development, 
which accounts for the difference of voice between the last-named animal 
and the horse. The author could never discover such a curiosity, nor 
is any necessary, when the peculiarity of the two sounds is attentively 
noticed. One is a nasal tone, modulated by the flutter of the nostrils ; 
the other is a harsh, grating noise, produced by energetically inhaling 
and expelling the atmosphere through the extended pipe of the animal's 
trachea. 

The donkey labors, however, beyond the care of its enslaver and with- 
out the region of human sympathy. Be its toil exhaustive, let it work 
without cessation throughout the day and far into the night, no eye 
regards its fatigue with commiseration. It is an object only to laugh at. 
The popular belief is, that the tribe is so peculiarly hardy as to be alto- 
gether removed from the necessities, the liabilities, or the accidents com- 
mon to" every other form of life. All grades of existence which men 
please to neglect, they generally designate as "hardy." Human beings, 
however, notoriously become less "hardy" as knowledge is enlarged and 
as life becomes better cared for. Will the time ever arrive when percep- 
tion can embrace that which we now view only as an object of fun, and 
when the donkey will be regarded as entitled to share the consideration 
bestowed upon all the other inhabitants of earth ? 

The country is not secure, the people are not released from barbarism, 
while the pressure of want can blind the nation to the lawful needs of 
the lives which surround and which serve it. Civilization must be far 
from perfected, when an inquiry concerning the man who has beheld a 
dead donkey can make a large assemblage laugh. The author has, 
however, known poor famiUes to be plunged into deep distress because 
the assinine form of existence was not immortal. His experience may, 
probably, be peculiar, but it is opposed to the stale jest of our theaters ; 
for when he was demonstrator at the Royal Yeterinary College, he used 
to dispute with the man whd supplied donkeys for the pupils to dissect, 
whether the institution should or should not bear the loss of such as died 
before their lives were required by the school. These creatures were 
bought at Smithfield, and brought to Saint Pancras for animals enjojnng 
health ; they were wanted to endure but a few days ; yet the author has 
seen three carcasses anticipate this brief interval of permitted existence. 

The author can further testify that, among the scores of carcasses 
which he has dissected, he never examined the body of a donkey, how- 
ever young it might have been, that he did not encounter appalling 
proofs of internal injuries — injuries which had resulted in change of 



48 



ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 



Structure, and which would have consigned the horse to the knacker's 
yard. Yet the animals thus maimed were working up to the date of 
purchase ; the inability to move was attributed to the obstinacy which 
is generously supposed to characterize the ill-treated animal, and the 
blows fell heavier in proportion as its actual condition should have 
appealed to human forbearance. 




STABLED FOE THE NIGHT. 



To properly comprehend the sufferings of the quadruped, we must 
know the country whence it is derived, and be acquainted with the soil 
it is fitted to 'inhabit. The wild ass delights in the sandy desert of a 
tropical region, and for the products of such a locality a taste is, by the 
English representative, retained. It lives and thrives upon the spon- 
taneous herbage of the arid waste. The heat, under which other forms 
of life appear to languish, fills the donkey with animation. The com- 
parative size of its intestines fit it to store away that amount of water 
which in the land of its nativity is proverbially scarce. 

The donkey in England is dragged into a wintry climate, rendered 
more inhospitable by the low temperature which is the most prom- 
inent characteristic of the country. In cold and in wet, the native of a 
tropical soil must lead a miserable existence. In Britain, however, it 



ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 49 

breathes and breeds ; but it is here on the limits of even its power to 
endure. In Scotland the tribe is all but unknown. Where it can live, 
however, no one thinks of its real condition ; no mortal is so weak as 
to waste pity upon its suffering. Its toil is without other limit than 
the pleasure of its master; when the day's work is done, the nearest 
lane is the only stable ready to receive it. 

The author has often, when passing down some narrow and unfre- 
quented highway, during the early part of December, encountered a 
miserable group of beings endeavoring to afford each other a little 
warmth by crowding close together. The weather at this season is 
piercing cold. The ground is squashy, and moisture loads the atmos- 
phere. The fierce wind bends the bare twigs of the adjacent hedge, 
and the temperature is of that kind which heralds the Christmas frost. 
It is not yet so low as to numb sensation ; but it leaves the edge of 
feeling unblunted, that sense may fully appreciate the heavy misery, 
before whose wildness all nature moans and crouches. In such a place, 
and at such a season, the author has been made sad by the living anguish 
which the preceding illustration feebly depicts. 

The donkey, in this country, is very unfortunate in the class whom it 
principally serves. The lower order, though with impulses untainted by 
politeness, yet, in the struggle for life, have little leisure to quicken their 
perceptions or to cultivate their feelings. Their own necessities forbid 
them to be generous, and render somewhat rude their intercourse. They 
exist not within the amenities, but upon the borders of society ; the law, 
under whose protection the affluent breathe in comfort, is to them a cruel 
institution, which forces them to endure, which they recognize only as a 
restraint, and with which they are powerless openly to contend. 

In towns, the homes of such a race are without attractions. The 
very poor are ignorant of domesticity. They eat and live abroad, and 
■seek their lodgings only when utter weariness makes them heedless 
where they rest. If the lodging be large enough to conceal, it possesses 
all the requirements poverty demands. To be larger is to be colder; for 
the ignorant study rather to drag on existence from day to day than 
think to promote the health, which is their only real possession. 

When such a people rise in their sphere of contention, and can afford 
to discard the hand-barrow for the donkey-tray, the inferior animal can 
expect no separate lodging. That will hardly be provided for a beast 
which the master was too abased to conceive necessary for the members 
of his family. 

The donkey is hailed as a new possession ; and for security, not from 
any loftier consideration, it has to share the proprietor's home. No 
hole can be too narrow, too dark, or too stifling for the animal's abode, 

4 



50 



ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 



SO that it provides the safe keeping for which it is sought. Humanity 
shudders as it pictures the strange places which poverty may view as 
the fitting homes of its dependants 1 

The young horse may be stinted in its food, but it is spared from work 
until a certain period has arrived. All classes have their stated ages 
when the colt should first begin to labor ; but the ass has no recognized 
season of rest, even for its immaturity. It is forced to work so soon as 
need can see in the growing body a capacity to assist. Foals are often 
to be seen dragging loaded trays about the streets of London, and the 
day's toil is lengthened or shortened by the quickness or the slowness of 
the day's sale. The food is, during this time, the refuse of the stock; 
seldom can the owner spare from his earnings that which will purchase 
fodder for the life which is^he partner of his fatigues. 




THE donkey's peeparation for the labor of the bat. 



The donkey is harnessed for the early market. The costermonger 
rides with his family to make his bargains for the day ; and the stock- 
in-trade being procured, he and they ride with it back again. The very 
poor never walk, save upon necessity, and seem never to conceive their 
animals can be tired or overladen. The wretched quadruped, on home 
being reached, is not released and permitted to rest. It has to support 
the tray while the family wash the stock, display the viands, and get their 
morning meal; after w-hich it is started with a kick and a blow, and an 
exclamation of, " Come up, lazy I why, what ails ye, this marning?" 

Animals have generally less ability to endure fatigue than hav^ the 



ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 51 

numan race ; but if the donkey has to work before man's daily round 
commences, so also do its toils increase after the period of mortal labor 
has been fulfilled. My readers must recollect to have frequently beheld 
the coster's tray, now emptied of the green' stock of the morning, but 
occupied by several shouting fellows, and drawn past the windows by a 
Httle donkey. The street purveyor of vegetables often travels far to 
dispose of his wares. But the green stuff distributed, he considers his 
labors for the day to be ended. He then has time to appreciate his own 
sensations. He flings his body full length upon the tray, and, with the 
good nature which belongs to his class, does not refuse a ride to any 
wayfarer so long as the vehicle can accommodate another passenger. 
All, then, fully impressed with the popular credulities concerning the 
donkey, commence shouting and thumping, while the animal, which has 
been upon its legs before the light began, is forced to travel homeward 
at a pace which is compelled to be faster in proportion as it may be dis- 
tant from its lodging. 

In the country, the houses being more separated, the animal is de- 
prived of the frequent stoppages and the lighter draught of the towns. 
The pull is heavier, and the distances are longer; but still the donkey 
must progress until the master has earned a certain sum, without which 
he rarely turns the creature's head toward his home. If the proprietors 
of asses have few faiths, they are all thoroughly imbued with one belief, 
which is, that the animal in their keeping cannot possibly feel exhaus- 
tion. Their credulity does not stay here. They are impressed with a 
conviction that no creature of the donkey tribe has any sort of feeling. 
The quadruped, they know, can bear an unusual amount of beating with 
the thickest possible bludgeon, and simply requires only the coarsest of 
refuse for sustenance. Moreover, such conviction leaves the proprietor 
his own convenience to consider, when imposing burdens on "the beast 
within his gate." 

The last article of belief makes the man select the weakest portion of 
his dumb servant's spine for a seat, when he is inclined to play the 
jockey. The reader, to whose notice diagrams of the equine spine have 
been submitted, knows that the loins alone are unsupported by other 
bones. The absence of that which renders this region the weakest divi- 
sion of the vertebrae, also makes this portion of the quadruped's back 
the most yielding and elastic. Here the fashion of vulgarity fixes the 
rider's seat when he strides the ass. The veterinary student will remem- 
ber that few of the lumbar bones in the carcasses he dissected, when at 
college, were in their integrity. The author has encountered two, three, 
and even four bones of the six which compose the part locked together 
by osseous deposit. 



&a ANATOMICAL CONSIDERATIONS. 

Such a form of union proves tlie animal to have suffered inflammation. 
The injury must have been endured and the agony must have run its 
course; for an osseous junction is positive evidence that all the stages 
of inflammation have been survived. Few persons, when they behold 
the young donkey stagger under the weight of its six-foot rider, care to 
think of this ; nay, the writer has beheld really worthy gentlemen stand 
and enjoy the scene of activity presented at evening time by a rural 
gipsy's encampment. The women were laughing, the men were shout- 
ing, while the more jovial of the gang were racing on the common. Those 
poor donkeys, which already had been goaded to the performance of no 
ordinary day's toil, were carrying terrific loads, and beaten till they gal- 
loped, despite the deep-seated anguish with which they were afflicted. 



CHAPTER 11. 

PHYSIC, THE MODE OF ADMINISTERINa IT, AND MINOR OPERATIONS. 

Let the reader ask any gentleman of his acquaintance, "Whether 
man is not morally answerable for the welfare of those animals which 
are gathered beneath his roof?" The individual thus appealed to will 
most probably lean back in his easy chair, and, with a look of amiable 
surprise, may reply " Certainly I certainly ! Assuredly, my dear sir, I 
regard myself as fully responsible 1 Every horse in my stable costs me 
one hundred pounds, or very nearly, a year. The poor animals ought 
to be well looked after for that money 1 Clerks — many young city 
men — receive only fifty pounds annually — from respectable houses too. 
Therefore, my horses ought to be especially well cared for!" 

But to drive this matter home, allow the author, with all humility, to 
inquire if it be in the power of money to discharge the smallest or the 
shghtest moral bond ? Is there no difference between paying and doing ? 
May there not be certain duties which are equally stringent upon the 
very rich and the very poor ? Can the wealthy compound for such obli- 
gations, and are the needy, only, to be judged for the non-fulfillment of 
these responsibilities ? 

It is among the worst features of modern society that, while it boasts 
of several worthy gentlemen who can draw largely upon their bankers, 
there are in its ranks so very few who would willingly submit to the 
smallest personal exertion for the fulfillment of that which they confess to 
be a moral duty. Would these most agreeable and amiable individuals 
occasionally lounge toward the stable, the cost of its maintenance might 
be decreased, and, nevertheless, the creatures for whose welfare the 
owner is confessedly responsible be better treated at the diminished 
outlay. 

When a dumb slave fails in the service of some affluent proprietor, all 
that might be done is not accompUshed when an order is hastily given 
"to call in" a veterinary surgeon. It is not sufficient that baskets of 
drugs are delivered and paid for ; that physicking and bleeding are prac- 
ticed and remunerated ; that a " horse doctor " is constant in his attend- 
ance, or that a building, by its odor, attests to the activity of his meas- 
ures. No. Man is formed capable of investigation, and is blessed with 

(53.) 



64 PHYSIC. 

a power of locomotion. A man is bound to go, to see, to hear patiently, 
and to judge conscientiously, of that which is done to' the lives intrusted 
to his responsibility. Had this duty been discharged, many processes, 
still sanctioned by custom, might have fallen into disuse ; some habits, 
now indulged, might have been discarded ; while a few objectionable 
measures might have been altogether forbidden as useless formalities and 
needless cruelties. 

Horse Balls — particular forms of veterinary medicine — are generally 
sent to stables by the dozen. Physic is thus placed at the pleasure or 
the caprice of ignorance to administer. The author has seen a large 
chest full of such abominations — looking very pretty, and made up all 
of one size, each labeled, and bearing some distinctive title — directed to 
an English nobleman resident in the country. Such a supply, the writer 
was informed, is dispatched to "my lord's" address twice in each year, 
and is always used by the grooms, and by the stated period, in accord- 
ance with the accompanying directions. 

The only safeguard attending such implements of destruction was that 
the majority were harmless, either from the worthless nature of the drugs 
composing them, or from the change which took place between the agents 
being compounded and at the time of their being employed. Many, no 
doubt, were thrown away ; but that fact excuses neither the professional 
man who sent them, the honorable person who ordered them, or the igno- 
rant servants by whom they were l-ccepted. Each was impressed with 
a belief that such things were potent. It is astonishing how much of 
this world's sin is gilt over by its credulity. All concerned regarded 
these things as mysterious projectiles, strong enough to regulate^ the 
eccentricities of health and powerful enough to vanquish the dangers 
of disease. 

One form of ball, however, is neither innocuous nor safe — it is the 
aloetic. Aloes is the common purgative of the stable. So general was 
the use of the drug, and so unquestioning appears to have, formerly, been 
the confidence lavished upon its operation, that this medicine always took 
the precedence in every sickness, and, ultimately, by popular consent, 
engrossed to itself the significant term of "physic." "Has this horse 
had physic?" — "Prepare this horse for physic" — when spoken in the 
stable, signify, has such an animal had aloes ? or imply an order that 
another quadruped is to be prepared for a dose of aloes. The groom 
can only imagine that to be worthy of the title "physic," which is 
capable of producing visible effects; and, certainly, when judged by the 
stable-man's standard, aloes merits the distinction bestowed upon its 
drastic results. 

Other things will move the bowels of the horse, and will empty its 



PHYSIC. 55 

intestines mucli more gently, and with altogether more safety ; but the 
stable cannot, therefore, afford to part with its favorite representative o^ 
the many forms of medicine. Bran mashes, four of these being given 
daily, it is well known, will relax the animal's system ; but the groom 
employs these agents merely as preparatory to the favorite dose of 
aloes ; and, though repeated mashes will mduce purgation in the equine 
patient, the groom is never satisfied unless that result be aggravated by 
a dose of aloes. 

The horse's body does not quickly respond to opening medicine ; but 
the action, once elicited, is not invariably easy to command. The ani- 
mal's hfe is frequently a prey to a potent purgative. The vetermarian 
knows that the different creatures vary much in their capability of swal- 
lowing amounts of aloes ; that the dose which will not move one quad- 
ruped may destroy the inhabitant of the next stall. One creature will 
imbibe two ounces of the drug without marked effect ; another will be 
shaken by the action of less than half an ounce of the preparation. 
Nevertheless, the stable-man always craves for aloes, and always expe- 
riences an odd delight when watching for its hydragogue operation. 

The farmers in Norfolk are strongly tainted with the superstition of the 
London mews. They also crave for aloes, and the youthful veterinary 
surgeon frequently yields to the demand. Young practitioners delight 
in strong doses. Accordingly, a fuU dose of aloes is sent to the Norfolk 
farmer, and by him rammed down the throat of some unfortunate team- 
ster. The next time the novice encounters his customer, the man of the 
diploma is greeted with "Hey, doctor! doctor I what beautiful physic 
that were you sent for Slyboots ! Oh ! how it did work the poor thing, 
to be sure ! If anything could have saved the beast, that must have 
done 1 But the time were up, and he died of a powerful inflammation. 
Thanke, thanke, doctor 1 Let's have your bill 1" 

This is the more lamentable when we consider that in nine cases out 
of ten, or rather in twenty -nine out of thirty, the administration of aloes 
is unnecessary. In the great majority of cases, its place could be advan- 
tageously supplied by bran mashes, which are readily made according to 
the following receipt : Put a peck of bran into a perfectly clean stable- 
pail. One person should stir the bran as briskly as possible, while 
another person, with speed, empties a suflQciency of boiling water into 
the pail to render the contents a pultaceous mass. The vessel is then 
covered up, and when it has become cool, the pudding is thrown into 
the manger. 

However, one horse shall devour bran mashes with avidity, another 
will not touch them. This will not partake of the potion unless it be 
partially warm; another will not eat until it is perfectly cold; while 



56 ' PHYSIC. 

most will partake of the mess if it be flavored by the admixture of a 
little salt or a few crushed oats. 

So it is, also, with water. Certain horses, when feeding upon bran 
mashes, refuse all drink ; others enjoy frequent draughts of cold fluid ; 
while a third set seem to crave warm water ; and a fourth will neither 
imbibe freely nor entirely abstain, being wholly indifferent as to the tem- 
perature of the liquid. Thus the order, which is inserted in most books, 
to give to the horse, after the animal has swallowed a dose of aloes, copi- 
ous draughts of warm water, is frequently rendered futile ; for, as the 
proverb teaches, "one man may lead the horse to the pond, but forty 
men cannot make the quadruped drink." 

Bran mashes, however, will act without the aid of repeated doses of 
warm fluid. Of themselves they do not debilitate, though from the length 
and size of the horse's intestines, purgation cannot be long maintained 
without inducing serious exhaustion ; and it is never safe to work the 
animal while any looseness is observable. A tendency to inflammation 
is often announced by repeated and liquid discharges ; therefore, never 
let the horse be taken out while the bowels are in a state of excitement, 
for exercise may increase that action to one of positive disease. Bran 
mashes, however, are the safest and the gentlest of laxatives. Any con- 
dition may be induced, according to the number and frequency of the 
potions. In general, they act mildly, without inducing that bodily dis- 
comfort and that constitutional weakness which throws the animal out 
of condition and renders rest an absolute necessity for recovery. Alto- 
gether, these mixtures are the best and the safest laxative of the stable ; 
but even these should never be administered to the horse without the 
special direction of the proprietor. 

On the other hand, aloes can, in no form, be administered to some 
horses. Yery many cannot receive a full dose of the drug. Several 
can only with safety swallow the medicine when highly spiced or in 
solution. While a few are all but insensible to the action of the agent. 
Alarming spasms often follow the exhibition of a moderate quantity of 
aloes, which always renders the quadruped sickly ere the eff"ects are visi- 
ble. The drug, in most instances, lies dormant twenty-four hours ; during 
which period the appetite is lost, the spirits oppressed, the coat dull, and 
the entire system evidently shaken. It is not esteemed prudent to work 
the patient till several days' rest have been allowed for its restoration. 

It used once to be the custom to trot the animal which was sickening 
under a dose of aloes ; but experience has shown the danger of the habit. 
The horse is now left in the stable, has an extra rug thrown upon the 
back, while a pail of warm water is in most instances placed in the 
manger. Where safe, it is obviously unnecessary to ride the quadruped 



PHYSIC. ' St 

which is sickening under aloes; since the loss of appetite shows the 
medicine has affected the system, and the natural effects of the physic 
may, therefore, be anticipated. 

Yery many animals, when suffering from chronic debility, may be 
slaughtered by a moderate dose of aloes, while many never sufficiently 
recover from purgation to do a day's work after the medicine has ceased 
to operate. Of all the preparations the veterinarian has at his command, 
the writer does not know one which exerts so decided an effect upon the 
constitution; nor does the veterinary pharmacopoeia contain an agent 
which could be more advantageously dispensed with. During the years 
the author was in active practice, he does not remember to have ever 
given a dose of aloes that the symptoms did not afterward cause him to 
regret the administration. 

There is another fact rendering the aloetic ball an unsafe agent to be 
intrusted to the keeping of a groom. These things, as commonly com- 
pounded, become, in a short time, as hard as stones. The author has 
handled many which might be broken, but which could not be indented. 
Such bodies are not in a fit condition to be thrust down a horse's throat. 
All unyielding substances are liable to stick in the gullet, and to provoke 
choking — the digestive passages of the horse not contemplating the de- 
glutition of other than moist and soft pellets of thoroughly masticated 
food. Aloes was, at one time, in spite of the objections urged, very- 
popular in the stable ; for that consequence, the late Professor Coleman 
was mainly answerable. They are at present chiefly employed in accord- 
ance with the dictates of routine, and usually take precedence, of other 
forms of medicine. 



A BAIX, AS SUOH THINGS ABE SENT FROM THE TBTBRINART PHARMACY. 

A horse ball represents some substance in powder mixed into a mass 
with some moist ingredient, such as soft soap, treacle, palm oil, etc. The 
compounds, when united, are usually rolled into sticks about three- 
quarters of an inch in diameter. These sticks are subsequently cut 
into lengths of two and a half or four inches in extent, according to the 
amount required for a dose ; each piece is weighed, is dusted with some 
non-adhesive powder, is securely wrapped in paper, is labeled, and is 



58 



PHYSIC. 



packed away for use or sent out to such stables as delight in strange 
property. 




A BALL, OF THE FORM 'WHICH IT IS aENEEAIil MADE TO ASSUME WHEN GIVEN. 

Previous to a ball being delivered it is customary, with the generality 
of practitioners, to pinch the sharp edge of the forward extremity until 
that part of the substance becomes rounded. The intention, when doing 
this, is so to modify the shape as to facilitate the passage of the body 
down the gullet. Where the medicine is soft, as all newly-compounded 
drugs must necessarily be, the muscular contractility of the horse's swal- 
low would render such trouble useless ; but, as the ball must be rather 
pulpy which can be thus moulded by the fingers, it would be no more 
than a prudent regulation should every proprietor insist on this custom 
always being complied with. Whether the present practice in any degree 
is beneficial to the animal, the author is very dubious ; at all events, the 
horse were very fortunate if the sharp edges of the forward extremity 
were the only danger it encountered when swallowing the physic which 
is supposed to be curative in its effect. 

Several potent caustics rank among the most common of horse phys- 
ics. Those agents are of great power; as bichloride of mercury, arsenic, 
nitrate of silver, sulphate of copper, etc. These burning compounds are 
frequently administered in substance, and in enormous doses. Even 
where the quantity prescribed is not objectionable, the form in which the 
caustic is generally given is calculated to be highly injurious. In the 
first place, the use of such things in the veterinary pharmacy is too com- 
mon an occurrence for the compounder to bestow much care upon the 
accuracy of the weight — a scruple more or less being commonly esteemed 
of no importance. Next, small thought is bestowed upon the necessity 
of incorporating such fiery components with more mild ingredients before 
the mass is forced down the sensitive throat of a living creature. A ball 
made of linseed meal and treacle is quickly snatched from one of the 
drawers of the surgery ; the powerful agent is speedily reduced to pow- 
der ; the placebo is torn from its envelope ; a slit is cut down its center ; 
from the mortar the potent material is emptied into the cavity thus 
formed for its reception ; and the whole, after having been rewrapped in 
fresh paper, is esteemed to be ready for delivery. 



PHYSIO. 59 

When sucIl an article has been swallowed by the creature, in whose 
welfare no living being seems to take a genuine interest, the paper or 
outward investment is speedily removed by the action of the stomach. 
Then, the retaining cover being destroyed, the burning mass falls out 
upon the fine, moist, and velvet coat lining the viscus; this fact may 
very probably explain why stomachic diseases are so general with the 
majority of old favorites. As such substances are caustics when ap- 
plied to the external flesh, it is only reasonable to infer that no tissue 
within the body could long withstand the burning properties of such 
potent destroyers. It is true that certain inhumanities, miscalled exper- 
iments, have been practiced upon living horses. Enormous quantities 
of the most destructive compounds have been poured down the living 
throats of submissive quadrupeds. Some animals long survived such 
disgusting brutality ; but others have succumbed at the very commence- 
ment of the trial. Veterinary therapeutics, however, take no notice of 
such as yielded to the smaller dose. The men who conducted these cruel- 
ties delight to dwell upon the fact that a certain horse actually took so 
much of such a poison, and, apparently, suffered no ill effects from imbi- 
bition of the deadly potion. 




A COMPOUND BALL, A3 PREPARED IN TOO MANX VETERINARY PHAEMACXB8. 

However, supposing such an experiment were made on human beings. 
Let a certain number of cripples be procured from the workhouses ; aged 
creatures whose span of existence was almost run, and on whose coun- 
tenances years of suffering had impressed the Imes of prolonged misery. 
Let such poor mortals be deprived of speech, and let all the signs of suf- 
fering in them be disregarded. Then force these wretched beings to 
swallow large quantities of the various poisons. Would all perish simul- 
taneously ? By no means. Affliction often acts as a defense to those 
whom it envelops. Men in different stages of distress have endured 
strange things, as during every hour the record of calamity makes known. 

The poor animals which served for the subjects of the so-called veteri- 
nary experiments were procured from the knackers; they were in the 
last stages of disease, and the poison, which would kill healthy horses, 
acting upon frames exhausted by every possible accumulation of agony, 
probably may have stimulated the exhaustion of excessive debility. 



60 PHYSIC. 

That whicli would destroy an ordinary life, acting upon an existence 
sinking to its last sleep, may, to the blindness of mortal recognitions, 
appear to work without sensible result, or may seem to recall the fleet- 
ing spirit back to earth. At all events, no sound deduction can be 
drawn, as to the action of any medicinal substances upon the healthy 
body, from the apparent influence exerted by such agents upon decrepi- 
tude and upon senility. 

The so-called experiments, which are here alluded to only to reprobate 
them as horrible cruelties, very probably have induced the carelessness 
that prevails throughout veterinary practice as to the use of caustic 
bodies among its customary medicines. Such salts should, on no account, 
be exhibited in substance, if, indeed, their supposititious virtues should 
recommend them at all to the prescriber. During the years which the 
author was in practice he scrupulously abjured all these abominations, 
and the results which were obtained by gentler agents were such as did 
no discredit to the adoption of milder measures. 

Humanity should prevail consistently throughout all acts forced upon 
the life which Providence has intrusted to our mercy. If the recogni- 
tion of this duty, as an actuating motive, be a weakness, in its adoption 
is carried its own defense. If charity does no good, it cannot possibly 
work harm to the dumb life upon which its offices are expended ; whereas, 
when administering balls to horses, the cruelty often indulged causes many 
of these gentle animals to acquire those habits of resistance which are 
at first no more than the wild efforts of conscious helplessness aiming at 
self-defense. Such timid creatures, influenced by fear, will instinctively 
rear, kick, and vigorously attack whoever may approach them. 

He who will have the patience and the courage to encounter what is 
in stable language denominated "a savage horse," may do so with every 
confidence. Let him approach the quadruped alone, when the groom is 
absent and silence reigns around. Nothing must be done quickly. When 
the horse moves, the man must remain stationary. Every symptom of 
alarm must be assuaged by kind looks and gentle words. When the horse 
is convinced that no injury is designed — and it is astonishing how quickly 
a generous spirit will comprehend the intentions of benevolence — in pro- 
portion as ferocity was previously displayed will gratitude gush forth and 
submit the huge body to man's pleasure. 

If, however, the person has neither time nor inclination to undertake 
such a trial, then, with an animal having a tendency to become excited, 
he must adopt one of those mechanical restraints known as balling-irons. 
These things a.re not altogether safe for their employer, while they are 
decidedly not beneficial in their operation upon the quadruped. A ball- 
ing-iron is simply a piece of metal, so shaped that when thrust violently 



PHYSIC. 



61 



between the creature's jaws it forcibly holds the mouth open. Therefore, 
it will certainly prevent biting ; but an irritable or a fearful horse can reai 
up and strike with its forefeet. Such an animal is not entirely subdued 
when the iron is adjusted. Moreover, these instruments occasion pain, 
and the horse, instructed by repeated agony, soon grows very cunning, 
and equally resolute ia its efforts to oppose the insertion of the dreaded 
LQStrument which causes its suffering. 

The man usiag a balling-iron has, therefore, to guard himself from 
blows rapidly dealt- with the forehoofs of a desperate animal. 





THE COMMONEST FORM OP BALUNQ-IEON. 

A A. The ring of iron which, being forced into 
the animal's mouth, keeps the jaws asunder. 

B B, B B. That portion of the metal which stea- 
dies the ring by remaining against the jaws. 

C. The handle. 



THE IMPROVED FORM OF THE COMMON BALLINQ- 
IRON, WHICH AFFORDS A PROBABILIIT OP 
ESCAPE FOR THE OPERATOR'S ARM. 

A A. The part forced into the mouth. 
6 B, B B. The parts which remain against 
the jaws. C. The handle. 



He has also to be ready at the slightest intimation of an intention to 
rear, so that he may withdraw his arm on the instant, otherwise the 
operator is dragged upward with the elevated crest, and, hanging by the 
inserted member, he is very lucky if a broken limb does not reward his 
tardiness. The use of the balling-iron, consequently, is not free froln 
danger; and in practice it will be found safer to subdue by kindness 
than to partially conquer by the employment of mechanical restraints. 



62 



PHYSIC. 



The most common form of balling-iron is constructed according to the 
model indicated in the preceding illustration. The circular piece of metal 
is inserted into the mouth of the animal. A straight bar is attached to 
either side of the metallic ring, the design of these last being to steady 
the instrument after it has been forced into its proper position. Through 
the circle the operator's arm is thrust, and the iron ring affords security 
so far as it disables the jaws from closing upon the member. But, though 
safe in one direction, such a protection also creates its particular peril ; 
for, should the horse rear, the arm, being surrounded by a metalUc rim, 
could not be withdrawn with the speed requisite to insure the operator's 

safety. The suspension of the man's 
body is almost certain to provoke the 
fracture of his imprisoned limb; conse- 
quently, to remedy that evil, the im- 
provement indicated by the right-hand 
illustration was introduced. 

The circle in the foregoing is left free 
on one side; thus, the inexpert have a 
little more time allowed for their move- 
ments. The arm could be retracted with 
greater ease, and the former danger was, 
in a great measure, removed. Still, this 
new shape was not wholly satisfactory. 
The form was fixed : horses are not all 
of one height, one breadth, or of one 
capacity. There are small creatures 
designated ponies ; while horses are not 
rarely encountered of enormous propor- 
tions. As the iron has no power of 
being adapted, the form that should 
prove not large enough for one may be 
altogether disproportioned to another 
quadruped. 

The weight of metal necessarily em- 
ployed to assure the requisite strength, 
also rendered it inconvenient for a veter- 
inary surgeon to carry more than one of 
these bulky articles; and though small 
was the amount of ingenuity which had 
hitherto been lavished on the improvement of the thing, for years it con- 
tinued of the last character. Mr. Yarnell, assistant professor at the 
Royal Yeterinary College, however, appears to have entirely removed 




A NEW BAlMNO-raON, INVENTED BT PROFES- 
SOR vaeni;ll, of the rotal veterinary 

COLLEOE, LONDON. 

A A. India-rubber tubing, to protect the 
mouth from the harshness of the metal 
bars. 

B B B. Side pieces to keep the iron in its 
situation. 

C. The handle. 

D. The lower bar, attached to the handle. 

E. The side piece, which can be raised or 
depressed. 

F. The screw, at the extremity of the 
Bide piece. 

G. The nut which, fiMtened to the handle, 
acts upon the screw and fixes its position. 



PHYSIC. 



63 



all former objections, and to have invented a balling-iron wliicli seems 
to possess all the qualities that such an instrument is capable of exhib- 
iting. The restraining bars of this last amendment are formed of pol- 
ished steel, and are covered with a stout piece of India-rubber tubing, 
thus in some measure protecting the mouth of the creature from injury 
by what hitherto was the exposed metal. The lower bar, moreover, is 
attached to the handle, and the handle can be readily raised or depressed 
by turning the nut situated at its base. It can, therefore, be quickly 
adapted to any possible capacity of jaw. 




-^x ^^^^s^^^^m^^S^^^^5s*f -^ 



THE CSUAI, MANNER OF GIVINO A BALL. 



Such a form of immunity is, however, seldom sought, save by the very 
mexperienced in the veterinary practice. A few years of active employ- 
ment enables any person to discard this defense. A sufficient security 
is in all ordinary cases afforded by the horse's tongue, which, when a 
ball is about to be administered, is grasped by the left hand, and with- 
drawn to the right side of the mouth. The hand thus employed is fixed, 
being lightly pressed against the inferior margin of the lower jaw ; for, 
when retained in such a position, the tongue is pressed upon the fore- 
most of the huge molar teeth. Of course, the animal, thus held, cannot 
approximate its jaws so as seriously to harm the operator without biting 
its own flesh; by that circumstance is safety supposed to be rendered 



B4 



PHYSIO. 



certain. But should violence be exerted, animal fear is apt to be supe^ 
rior to bodily pain ; the tongue and arm may be simultaneously bitten 
through. The practiced veterinary surgeon, however, takes advantage 
of the first emotion of surprise which the creature experiences at the 
liberties taken with, and the indignities offered to, its person. Having 
the ball ready in the right hand, he, standing on the left side, quickly 
introduces the bolus into the wondering quadruped's mouth. 

The medicine is lodged at the back portion of the tongue, whence, as 
the horse does not expectorate, the creature has no ability of expelling 
it, save only by coughing. During the spasm, which accompanies this 
act, the soft palate is raised and the ball is carried outward with the 
volume of violently-expired breath. Some horses acquire a habit of 
thus returning all forms of physic, and will cough up a ball twenty times. 
Such a circumstance illustrates the necessity of distracting the attention 
of the quadruped the instant the hand is retracted ; for in the confusion 
of the moment the most inveterate "dodger" may be surprised into 
swallowing any abhorrent morsel. 




THE CCSTOMAET MODE OP DISTEACTINO THE HORSE'S ATTENTION, AFTEB IT HAS RECEIVED A BALL. 



The hand, during the delivery of the ball, being rapidly thrust into 
the mouth, is frequently cut by the sharp edges of the molar teeth. No 
knowledge, which has hitherto been attained by veterinary science, can 
point out the animal possessed of grinders of this dangerous .description, 
and the only protection as yet suggested is to cover the hand with a 
glove. But a glove cannot be washed and dried so readily as the hand : 



PHYSIC. 



65 



it, moreover, is highly objectionable to introduce the saliva of one animal 
into the mouth of another, as disease may be thus conveyed from horse 
to horse also, it being impossible to provide a new glove with every 
fresh patient, the protection is not universally adopted. 

The medicine being delivered, the hand is quickly withdrawn, and the 
jaws of the animal are clapped together. The nose is then rubbed some- 
what roughly, for — the upper lip being the organ of prehension, as well 
as the seat of feeling, in the horse — ^this part is excited with the design 
of preventing the quadruped from dwelling too intently on the unpleasant 
nature of the substance which has just been forced into its mouth. 




A BALL BEINa ABMINISTEREB ACCORDING TO MR. GOWINQ'S DIRECTION. 



Mr. Gowing, the excellent vetermary surgeon, of Camden Town, has, 
with his usual ingenuity, endeavored to remove those objections to which 
the previous manner of delivering a ball is obviously liable. This gen- 
tleman grasps the tongue rather higher up than is customary; and, 
having done so, does not retract the member, but fixes the hand upon 
the gums which cover the upper margin of the lower jaw. The point 
of the tongue protrudes between the thumb and fingers, and it is then 
plain that the animal cannot close the mouth without biting upon its 
own flesh. 

Yet candor obliges the author to state that he does not view this 
method of grasping the tongue as an improvement on the old practice. 
The tongue, not being drawn out of the mouth, is not so decidedly fixed 

5 



66 PHYSIC. 

upon the molar teeth ; while the hand appears to be placed in a some- 
what dangerous position. For if, under excitement,' the horse can become 
so oblivious as actually to bite through its own flesh, how would the 
hand of the operator fare when the closing of the jaws should lacerate 
the lingual body? The only advantage which can attend upon Mr. 
Gowing's proposed plan must result from the smaller outrage it offers, 
thus leaving the amiable disposition of the animal the better chance of 
controlling its emotions. 

It is, therefore, demonstrated the tongue can afford the operator no 
decided protection ; the question, consequently, resolves itself into which 
of the methods affords the hand the greatest immunity, should the animal 
become alarmed. The author cannot but think the outside of the jaw is, 
under such circumstances preferable to the interior of the mouth. 




MK. gowing's excellent manner of delivering a ball. 

However, the method proposed by Mr. Growing for holding and deliv- 
ering the ball is unobjectionable. According to the plan adopted by that 
gentleman, the knuckles are not elevated ; but the hand is extended, the 
thumb and fingers being all brought upon one level and all held close 
together. The ball is placed between the fore and middle fingers, on 
the same level as the hand generally, being retained simply by slight 
lateral pressure. In this position it is introduced, and evidently de- 
mands less space for its entrance than was required according to the 
former system. When the ball has been advanced to the desired situa- 
tion, a separation of the fingers allows the morsel to drop into its place. 

Some stress, however, is laid upon the manner of clasping the head 
after the ball has been lodged. Mr. Gowing claps-to the jaws and evi- 
dently contemplates holding them in apposition. This is a mistake; 
for the muscles of the horse are not to be controlled by the utmost power 
of the strongest human being. The old custom, which applied friction 
on the most sensitive portion of the horse's body, the writer esteems as 
better calculated to distract the attention of the quadruped. 

The delivery of a horse ball is, however, rendered difficult in propor- 
tion to the number of persons who surround the animal, and to the noise 
made on the occasion. For the above reason, all the pupils at public 



PHYSIC. 



67 



schools have to learn this portion of-, their profession under heavy diffi- 
culties. The fuss which accompanies this simple operation in such insti- 
tutions alarms the horse. It is turned round in its stall ; the twitch is 
put upon the upper lip ; a futile attempt is made to hold the jaws apart ; 
while the nervousness of the young student who is about to perform, — 
all are likely to exercise an evil influence upon a sensitive and a timid 
creature. n 




MR. GOWINO'S METHOD OP QRASPINa THE JAWS AFTER THE DELIVERT OP A BALL. 



Veterinary surgeons, however, soon learn to give a ball with greater 
speed and with less ceremony. They go alone up to the head, and 
play for a time with the quadruped's face. Confidence being thus estab- 
lished, the practitioner gently withdraws the creature's tongue. This 
being accomplished, of course the jaws are sundered ; when, without 
any sign of flurry, the hand is introduced into the cavity and the medi- 
cine properly lodged. After such a manner, the practiced veterinarian 
gives many balls in the course of the day, and is hardly ever known to 
fail. Indeed, were the practitioner, when going his rounds, to wait till 



63 



PHYSIC. 



four or iive assistants could be collected ere he administered the requisite 
medicine, the duties of the day could never be discharged. 




THE QCIJiT METHOD OF GITING A BALL. 



The physic being introduced into the mouth, the person who has 
undertaken to deliver it should on no account esteem his business 
finished, and thereon leave the stable. He should proceed to the left 
side of the horse and watch the neck. In that position, when the animal 
swallows, any substance can be seen to travel down the gullet; this 
proof having been witnessed, the building may be quitted with a safe 
conscience. The illustration of this fact was drawn on the wood cor- 
rectly; but the artist did not make proper allowance for the transfer of 
his sketch by the engraver. The last process has made that which was 
originally on the left side of the neck appear as on the right side of the 
body. 

Drinks or draughts are not in favor with the majority of veterinary 
surgeons. Most practitioners urge, in justification of their dislike to 
such a form of medicine, that solutions are attended with danger — being 
apt, when administered, to pass into the trachea, and thus to flow upon 
the lungs. Admitting this objection, it does not decide the question; 
for the advocates of solid physic can possess small experience if they 
are to be told that balls have proved injurious by also entering the for- 
bidden channel. Likewise, that when the popular form of physic has 
grown hard, much harm has been occasioned by the mass becoming im- 



PHYSIC. 69 

pacted within the gullet. Evil can, therefore, be caused by physh in 
either form, if given without the necessary caution ; and the balance of 
fact can incline the judgment to neither one side nor the other. 




4 BAIX PASSING BOWN THE HORSE'S GULLET. 

But it is curious to read of serious dislike being entertained against 
drinks, and at the same time know that several practitioners are accus- 
tomed to administer this kind of medicine after a particular method, 
which evinces a desire to illustrate the very circumstance which consti- 
tutes the objection to every solid. Many country veterinarians are 
accustomed to pour all the liquids which they exhibit do^n the nostril 
of the animal. Now, the nostrils terminate immediately over the larynx 
— ^the direct channel is from one chamber into the other cavity — thus, 
any fluid administered after so unnatural a method will probably find its 
way on to the lungs. 

Such an abuse of nature's designs being largely practiced upon a 
powerful quadruped, is proof of the perfect submission with which the 
creature has accepted its appointed master. Such an absolute negation 
of self, deserved considerate recognition from the reasoning and superior 
being. Veterinary medicines are too generally composed of pungent 
and of caustic materials, while the nostrils are lined with a highly sen- 
sitive and delicately moist mucous membrane. It was created to come 
in contact with the air, to which the nostrils in the horse afford the only 
legitimate passage. The notion of disregarding the mouth and selecting 
BO tender a channel, down which to pour acrid and burning solutions, 



70 



PHYSIC. 



appears to be such a refinement upon ordinary barbarity as must puzzle 
the reader to discover a motive to excuse. 




v%^xv^ ^\^ 



THE NATURAL CONSEQUENCE WHICH 13 TO BE EXPECTED WHENEVER THE FILTHY CUSTOM OP POTJBINO 
DRINKS INTO THE NASAL CHAMBER OP A HORSE IS ADOPTED. 



a a. The windpipe. 



6 6. The guUet. 



c c. The soft palate. 



d. The tongne. 



The fact appears the more monstrous when we consider the practice 
i& adopted by the veterinary surgeon, and that it is exhibited upon the 
sick horse whose welfare he is especially bound to conserve. The irri- 
tation consequent upon so abhorrent an abuse cannot but be most pre- 
judicial to that quietude which is, upon every form of existence, healing 
in its effect. The motive wJiich prompts so outrageous a proceeding is 
the love of display, acting upon an ignorant or unscrupulous individual ; 
joined to this, is the knowledge that medicine can be administered with 
greater speed than when delivered according to the natural method. The 
horse has no power to check the course of any liquid emptied into the 
nostril of the elevated head ; whereas the animal will frequently occupy 
a considerable time before a fluid, delivered by the mouth, is swallowed. 
By one canal, the will is powerless; by the other channel, volition is 
operative. To save his time, as well as to excite surprise, are the only 
motives which can prompt a careless man to tamper with that welfare 
it is his duty to tenderly protect. 

To render this subject the more intelligible to the reader, the natural 
process which enables the horse to imbibe liquids shall here be detailed. 
The mouth of this animal is peculiar for having at its backward ex- 



PHYSIC. 



■71 



tremity a fleshy screen, which hangs pendulous from the bony roof. 
This soft palate explains why the quadruped, under ordinary circum- 
stances, breathes only through the nose ; and why, when it vomits, the 
regurgitated matter is ejected by the nostrils. That specialty is of serv- 
ice, however, during the act of imbibition. The posterior entrance to 
the nasal chamber being open and the head in a pendulous position, 
were there no special provision to the contrary, the water, after hav- 
ing passed the mouth, would, from the mere force of gravity, have 

Fig. 1. 




DIAGRAM, (fig. 1,) EXPLANATORY OF THS COMPOUTfl) ACT OF BRINKINQ IN THE H0S8B. 

a a. The water drawn into the mouth and forced into the fauces by the compression of the forward part 
of the tongue and the enlargement of the backward portion of the organ. 
6 b. The fluid passing down the oesophagus or gullet. 
c. The larynx, lowered to admit the passage of the liquid. 
dd. The tongue, dilated at one place and contracted at another. 
c. The soft palate, floated upward and effectually closing the nasal passages. 



a tendency to return by the nostrils. This actually occurs whenever 
cold, strangles, influenza, sore throat, etc. interferes with the activity or 
the health of these parts now under consideration. Disease renders the 
organ sensitive, and tenderness makes the animal exert its volition to 
prevent the employment of the inflamed structure. In consequence of 
this cause, the nasal chambers are imperfectly closed, and a great por- 
tion of the fluid imbibed by the mouth flows forth again through the 



"a PHYSIC. 

Lostrils. Such a tendency to gravitate is, during health, effectually pre- 
vented by the soft palate. Before any substance can pass from the 
mouth toward the throat, that appendage must be raised, and its rising 
closes the posterior entrance to the nasal chambers. 

The tongue is the primary agent employed when the animal slakes its 
thirst. The backward portion of the organ is contracted, and the for- 
ward part compressed by muscular volition, (d d, fig. 1.) A vacuum 
would thereby be created, were not the water propelled by atmospheric 



Fia. 2. 




DIAGRAM, (fig. 2,) EXPLANATORY OF THE COMPOUND ACT OP DRINKING. 

a a. The water driven backward by the forward dilatation of the tongue and the upward movement of 
the larynx. 
b b. The full current forced down the gullet. 
e. The larynx proiielled against the soft palate. 
d d. The tongue, dilated anteriorly and compressed posteriorly. 
e. The soft palate. 



pressure into the void thus formed, (a, fig. 1.) The posterior of the 
tongue is then relaxed, while the anterior division of the organ is pressed 
against the roof of the mouth, (d d, fig. 2.) The fluid is thereby driven 
to the backward part of the cavity, (a, fig. 2.) The tongue, during the 
act, continues to alternate the states of contraction and relaxation, each 
motion of the lingual agent serving to pump the water into the fauces, 
(a, fig. 1.) But, before that can be accomplished, the soft palate must 



PHYSIC. "73 

be elevated. The soft palate {e, fig. 2) then closes the nostrils, (e, fig. 1 ;) 
and also in its course to take this position sets in motion the cartilages 
of the larynx. The last cover over and eifectually protecting the wind- 
pipe, (c, fig. 1,) the fluid is forced onward by the contraction of the tongue, 
passes into a secure chamber, the roof and floor of which are but of tem- 
porary formation, (a, fig. 1.) Here it remains only during the inactivity 
of the larynx. The upward motion of the latter body (c, fig. 2) propels 
the fluid into the pharynx, whence involuntary contractility sends it into 
the gullet, the muscular action of which tube conveys it onward to the 
stomach, (a h b, fig. 2.) 

From the foregoing explanation, the reader is in a position to judge 
whether the nasal chamber is a fit passage for acrimonious mixtures, 
since he now understands the evident pains the All-wise has bestowed 
to prevent the temperate fluid, of which the animal customarily partakes, 
from intruding upon the elaborate, delicate, and highly sensitive mem- 
brane that lines the air-passages. All veterinary students are not edu- 
cated men, neither are all attentive to their studies while at college ; but 
it should require an extraordinary amount of ignorance and conceit to 
thus grossly misconceive the intentions which are so plainly impressed 
upon the body of the quadruped. 

The author, however, doubts if those objections generally advanced 
to drinks are in any degree derived from the results of actual experience. 
Balls can be manufactured by the score, and then stored away for subse- 
quent use. Drinks would decompose if thus mixed and kept ready in 
the surgery. Drinks must be separately compounded, as required. Balls 
occupy little space, and being solid can be safely carried or forwarded to 
any distance. Drinks being contained in bottles, are less convenient for 
transport, and the vessels are liable to fracture. Balls, moreover, are to 
be quickly thrust down an animal's throat; require no assistance for 
their administration; and being wrapped in paper are not exposed to 
inquisitive discussion as to their ingredients. Drinks being inclosed in 
glass, protected only by a cork, are open to investigation, and likely to 
provoke remarks which are not always soothing to the pride of a pre- 
tender ; liquids likewise necessitate more time should be devoted to their 
exhibition, and generally require the assistance which is not invariably 
at hand to aid the veterinary surgeon. 

The above reasons and objections are not without influence upon 
practitioners, whose earnings are greatly dependent upon the speed of 
their movements; who generally give the medicines to those animals 
they treat, and habitually carry with them, ready compounded, the drugs 
which they administer. Drinks, moreover, demand several bulky articles 
for their proper administration, and are apt to soil the person who de- 



71 PHYSIC. 

livers them. Balls, as a rule, call for no other apparatus than the hand. 
Moreover, it causes delaj at starting, if there are twenty or thirty drinks 
to be previously mixed, bottled, labeled, incased in paper and so packed 
as to be in no peril of breakage ; whereas any number of balls can be 
almost instantaneously transferred from the drawer in the surgery into 
the gig at the door. 

The usual mode of giving a drink is, moreover, a complex business. 
A twitch is mostly kept in regularly appointed stables, and the string or 
loop is fixed over the animal's upper jaw, prior to other measures being 
proceeded with. The groom then grasps the stick and takes his place 
by the shoulder of the horse. At a previously arranged signal, he raises 
the pole ; the string, paining the gums under which it is fixed, causes 
the head of the quadruped to be elevated. Supposing the horn having 
the larger mouth to be employed, the drink is then emptied into the 
hollow of this rude appliance until the hquid nearly fills the interior. 
The fluid is next carried upward, two fingers of the operator's left hand 
being fastened on to the gums, so as to further expand the jaws and 
enable the veterinary surgeon to steady his body while straining to ad- 
minister the medicine. The large end is pushed into the quadruped's 
mouth, and, by a sudden movement of the wrist, the contents of the 
horn are meant to be splashed upon the animal's tongue. 





THE COMMON FORM OF THE HORN EMPLOYED 

TO ABMINI3TEB DRINKS. AN IMPROVED FORM OF HORN. 

This, which is the more common method of administering a drink, is 
open to several objections. The horn, being of a limited capacity, can 
hold but a small quantity; and the lengthened time required for fre- 
quent replenishing, necessitates that the animal should be long held in 
an attitude of unnatural constraint. In the next place, the fluid is, by 
the action of the wrist, rather rudely thrown, than gently emptied, into 



PHYSIC. 



T5 



the mouth, much of the medicine is generally lost, and no little of it, 
guided by the inserted fingers of the operator, is apt to find its way 
down the sleeve of his left arm. 

To remedy these obvious defects, the tip of the horn was sawn off ; 
while a piece of wood supplied a bottom to the larger extremity. A 
rude bottle was thus formed that would hold a larger amount of fluid, 
and from which the medicine could flow more gradually. The smaller 
opening afforded greater facilities for inserting that end between the 
horse's extended jaws, and was less likely to pain, when introduced into 
the animal's mouth. Still, drinks usually consisted of much more than 
the horn of an ox would contain, and as the smaller opening demanded 
greater care, when the article was being replenished, little time was 
saved by the last improvement. 





A TIN BOTTLE TO HOLD THKEB PINTS. 



THE MANNER OP USING THE TIN BOTTLE. 



A large tin bottle was next employed. It is of dimensions suflBciently 
capacious to require no replenishing ; this was an advantage in one direc- 
tion, an objection in the other ; for in proportion to size it became incon- 
venient to transport. It rather aggravated than ameliorated the fault 
urged against drinks, because of their bulk. The mode of its employ- 
ment is made plain in the right-hand illustration, where a loop of string 
is depicted as hung upon the prong of a pitchfork, and is made to do 
duty for a twitch — such a substitute being far from unusual, even in 
well-appointed stables. 

Should the operator, having much fluid at command, fill the mouth' 
too full, or the animal cough during the time of its administration, the 
administrator is saturated with the medicine. Any irritation of the 
larynx is invariably productive of this effect; the result of which a 
reader will the better understand, after the relative situation of those 
who are engaged in delivering a drench is fully comprehended. 

The misfortunes which the delivery of drinks almost necessarily in- 



:b 



PHYSIC. 



volve, will very readily account for any amount of dislike to the fluid 
form of medicine, more especially when it is stated that veterinary sur- 
geons are somewhat -slow in adopting new ideas, but seem, with the 
fervor and tenacity ignorance displays toward a favorite superstition, to 
love and cling to the practices in which' they have been educated. 




GENERAL METHOD OP ADMINISTEEINQ A DRINK TO A HOKSE. 



Else, it must have occurred to some member of a large profession that 
to violently oppose the instincts of an animal was hardly commendable 
in people who professed an observance and a worship of nature's teach- 
ing. Most animals, however, and the horse among the number, lower 
the mouth during the act of drinking. The veterinary surgeon, when 
proceeding in his professional capacity, employs a twitch, with which 
the head is to be violently upheld while a fluid is being deglutated. 

To illustrate the consequence of such conduct, the reader will pardon 
the author if he state the results of such opposite proceedings upon a 
dog in his possession. A saucer of milk being placed upon the floor, 
the head is lowered and the liquid lapped, without the act being charac- 
terized by any unusual circumstance. But should the vessel be held on 
the ordinary level of the mouth, the draught is certain to be interrupted 



PHYSIC. 



n 



Ibj repeated fits of coughing. Now, the danger that exists of the horse 
coughing and spasmodically drawing the fluid upon the lungs, consti- 
tutes the strongest argument urged against the administration of drinks ; 
but such an objection sounds oddly if he who listens to it is aware that, 
during the administration of fluids, the horse's mouth is fixed according 
to the manner which will certainly provoke the obnoxious act in another 
quadruped. 




-/ijihrrhlsc" 
giving a drink, accordinq to the (j0iet method. 



All this is very sad and may readily be corrected. Let men endeavor 
to rightfully interpret the disposition of the horse. The creature is a 
most pleasant study ; it is so timid, so loving and so confiding, that it 
immediately responds to the kindness which is intelligible to its under- 
standing. Should it hang back, the fault rather lies with its limited 
comprehension than with the promptings of its inclination. Let the 
person who intends to deliver a drink fearlessly approach the animal : 
allow the huge nostrils to smell their new acquaintance, and not till the 
process is concluded, proceed to such trivial famiHarities as may estab- 
lish perfect trustfulness between the man and his dependent. So soon 
as the steed's confidence is gained, the animal is all submission to the 



IS PHYSIC. 

pleasure of its superior. Then let the practitioner uncork the bottle^ 
and, putting the left hand gently under the quadruped's jaw, empty with 
the other the contents, gradually, through the interspace which divides 
the incisors from the molar teeth. 

But when adopting the above plan, the operator must be alone. No 
noisy or officious assistant must be near at hand to excite alarm or to 
create distrust. No pain must be inflicted ; no angry words should be 
employed ; no violent or hasty action ought to be used to frighten native 
susceptibility. All must be quiet. Should the aninial be slow to sVallow 
a nauseous draught, the creature must not be scolded for a natural dis- 
like ; but it should be encouraged by kind and cheerful accents, spoken 
as softly as though the words were addressed to a sick child. So alive 
is the equine heart to the seductiveness of benevolence, so unsuspecting 
is the full confidence of its species, and so happy is its spirit made by 
the praises of its superior, that rather than not deserve his commenda- 
tion it will gulp down the most distasteful solution. 

Blistering. — It is not praiseworthy to the human race that the animal 
given to man, with a mind thus impressible and yearning for kindness, 
should be treated with severity, and regarded as a brute, to be beaten 
and to be subdued. Such, however, is the case, and upon the poor body 
of this amiable life all kinds of cruelties are practiced. There is no bar- 
barity more common than to blister the legs of the quadruped. Only 
of late years has the blistering application been somewhat reduced in 
strength ;' but it is still far more potent than is necessary. Our fathers, 
however, added all kinds of fiery and irritating drugs to Spanish fly, and 
never used to filter the extract ; whereby particles got into the sores and 
cracks induced by the blister, and it was common for large pieces of skin 
to be removed by the sloughing process. A blemish was thus created. 

Horses have perished under the agony attendant upon the blistering 
of all four feet. It is, however, still a recognized custom for horse doc- 
tors to score a leg or sometimes two legs with the red-hot iron, and over 
the lines thus created on a living frame to apply a liquid blister. To 
fully appreciate the abhorrent barbarity or the inutility of such a cus- 
tom, the reader must recognize that animals suffer awfully from the 
wounds occasioned by fire, and understand that the sores are newly 
made, when the irritating liquid is placed upon the tender parts. A 
blister necessitates that the oil which contains the extract of the fly 
should be thoroughly rubbed in. Therefore the horse, when blistered, 
after having been fired, has to endure the fi'iction of a rough hand, 
applied with all the coarse energy of an uneducated man, made upon 
a member smarting under the agony produced by the agent of which 
the creature has an instinctive dread. 



PHYSIC. T9 

Blisters, as at present used, are far too powerful. Were they diluted 
with three times their bulk of bland oil, or of solution of soap, they would 
be equally effective and far less dangerous. But, unfortunately, there is 
a prejudice among the partially educated, to which class nearly all veter- 
inary surgeons belong, in favor of potency in their applications. Such 
persons seem to reckon the benefit to be produced according to the 
strength of the agent employed. By what other reason is it possible 
to explain the foolish perversity which still clings to the abuse of the 
heated iron ? By what other motive can we account for the prejudice 
which tempts the use of the fearful blistering oil, as now commonly 
exhibited ? 

The parts of the horse most generally blistered are the legs, and the 
explanation commonly given to excuse the folly is a desire "to freshen 
the old animal on the pins," or "to brighten up the manner of going." 
The legs are parts of the living frame, and one part can hardly fail with- 
out the general system sympathizing. The author was once as tired as 
the horse commonly may be supposed to be ; but, on that occasion, his 
feet were restored long before his body recovered from its exhaustion. 
Such a personal testimony seems to witness that fatigue affects the sys- 
tem generally. Indeed, the legs may be the means of progression ; but 
it is the life which puts them in action, and it is the nerves which trans- 
mit energy to the muscles; none less ignorant than the generality of 
veterinary surgeons and the lower order of horse proprietors, would have 
conceived the possibility of restoring animation to a debilitated system 
by torturing the parts in which the symptoms of decay are most promi- 
nently testified. 

Moreover, there is a maxim, first made known by John Hunter, and 
subsequently recognized by the profession of which he was the ornament 
This maxim declares that "two great inflammations cannot exist in the 
same body at the same time." Upon the truth of this discovery, the 
practice of counter-irritation is based. Then to fire and to blister simul- 
taneously may increase the torture of the poor existence thus barbar* 
ously treated ; but, according to the doctrine largely accepted by the 
medical profession of this country, the double process accomphshes 
nothing surgical or curative, since the blister must destroy the action of 
the fire ; and the man who is greedy to obtain the benefits of both oper- 
ations, secures the advantages of neither measure. 

To blister, however, is a very antique custom ; so, also, is the appli- 
cation of fire, which was first performed upon the human body. Old 
medicine does not bear a very good character, and only exemplifies the 
much which suffering can endure, or the little which cruelty can accom- 
plish. So far as horses are concerned, little Would be sacrificed were the 



80 PHYSIC. 

eutire list of vesicatories lost to the knowledge of mankind. The blister 
is, according to present veterinary practice, employed more often to 
gratify the passing whim of some wayward proprietor than with any 
medical intention or with the remotest regard for the quadruped. A 
man, while lounging through the stable of an evening, a prey to lassi- 
tude and the victim of idle thoughts, but without the slightest pretense 
to medical knowledge, may conceive he will have the entire stable blis- 
tered "right through," and few veterinary surgeons will presume to 
expostulate with so wild a notion. 

The compliance of the professional attendant is, however, in strict 
keeping with opinions implied by the expressions commonly employed 
by "horsemen." Thus, it is very general to hear these persons speak 
of — "a good horse with battered legs" — "a beautiful animal, but with 
legs that have done their work" — "an excellent frame, but not having a 
leg to stand upon," etc. Such phrases are sheer nonsense ! But they 
serve to countenance the equine superstition which regards the legs as 
distinct from the body. The stable-man cannot conceive a want of live- 
liness in the motions to be one of the indications of failing health. Yet 
this symptom pervades all nature. It is exhibited by beasts, by birds, 
by fishes, and by insects ; nay, the very vegetables, when disease attacks 
them, no longer spread their branches to the breeze, but droop their heads 
and incline their bodies earthward. 

To propagate such opinions, however, must destroy much of the power 
so dearly loved by the vulgar horse owner, and abolish much of the pleas- 
ure such a person experiences when surveying his long rows of miserable 
dependents 1 These men are always corrupt ! It is astonishing how 
unfitted human frailty is to possess absolute authority in any shape ! 
The men who live and think in stables are never so happy as when ex- 
ercising their despotic power. The next illustration is an example of 
this fact. An omnibus proprietor has entered to speak with a veteri- 
nary surgeon, who is witnessing the man's orders fulfilled on the fore- 
legs of a wretched stud. Let the reader contemplate this engraving, 
and he will soon perceive the animals stand in need of something far 
less costly than any mixture which can proceed from the cheajjest 
pharmacy. 

It will be remarked that the creatures represented are separated 
by "bales," or long poles, suspended by chains from the ceiling. This 
kind of arrangement permits more horses to be packed into a limited 
apartment, and is, therefore, adopted whenever the expense of lodging 
becomes a primary consideration. It will also have occurred to the 
spectator that the roof is depicted as very low, and the gangway or free 
thoroughfare behind the animals is exhibited as exceedingly narrow. 



PHYSIC. 



8T 



Now, creatures imprisoned in such a building are actually perishing 
of starvation ! The food, the water, and the medical attendance may- 
each of its kind be unexceptionable ; but the animals housed in such a 
locality soon droop from positive inanition. To breathe, is the primary 
necessity of existence. There is no living thing that can thrive where 
air is excluded. The quadrupeds represented below have to pass twenty- 
two out of every twenty -four hours in a locality barely lofty enough for 
each to stand upright in. Let the reader, knowing the duration of cap- 
tivity, conjecture how long it will be ere the huge lungs of a horse have 
inhaled and contaminated the limited amount of atmosphere which the 
place can contain, even were such an abode contemplated as the dwell- 
ing of a single subject. 




BLISTERING A STABLEFUL OP OMNIBUS HORSES. 



It is true, such sheds are seldom air tight. Were all draughts excluded, 
the prisoners would speedily be released from their captivity ; but the 
wind holes, though large enough to prolong misery, are too small to 
render such places the abodes of health. The wretched inmates cannot 
be tortured into a show of activity. When will the legislature, in its 
wisdom, notice these hot-beds of contagion ? When will it empower the 
police officer to enter any stable and authorize him to destroy the animals 
therein, hopelessly diseased and purposely concealed ? Who can, view- 
ing the stables where the hardest worked of the equine race are stowed 
away, wonder that glanders is rarely absent from such nurseries for con- 
tamination ? 

6 



82 PHYSIC. 

Horses navs thus been housed, and have been physicked, fired, and 
blistered, for ages. The folly of such practices is continued even to the 
present hour. However, let the gentleman who keeps his stable filled 
take warning from the errors of his inferiors ; and when the groom in- 
forms him that "Blossom" is getting stale upon her legs, refuse to have 
the creature tortured. A blister incapacitates a horse for six weeks. 
The cessation of toil for such a period may do good ; but let the man 
who pretends to judge in this matter grant the holiday which the 
measures, if adopted, would occupy, and employ the time in looking 
jealously around his premises to ascertain wherefore his dumb servant 
flags! 

Let no man blister a horse's legs. There is no motor agent situated 
in or near to those parts. The shin, foot, and pastern are almost with- 
out muscles. There is nothing, therefore, which could be freshened or 
rendered more brisk. But these parts are susceptible of the acutest 
agony. They are largely supplied with purely sensitive nerves. Con- 
sequently, let all gentlemen discharge the veterinary surgeon who pro- 
poses to blister the legs of their horses. He does so merely to gain 
time : the professional man is totally unworthy of confidence who can 
play with his employers' ignorance and tampei" with his patients' sensa- 
tions, merely from reasons of policy or the chance of pecuniary benefit 
to himself 1 The author has beheld hundreds of blisters applied to the 
legs, but he cannot remember the instance in which such* applications 
were productive of the slightest good. 

Blisters are seldom required, and are only beneficial as counter-irri- 
tants. Equine medicines are generally too coarse, and much too power- 
ful. Some practitioners mingle euphorbium, corrosive sublimate, aqua 
fortis, etc. with the blistering agent, to increase its potency. Therefore, 
never procure the oil of cantharides from a veterinarian. Never use 
blistering ointment of any description. Stuffs of this last kind are, for 
the most part, made of the refuse flies, exhausted by having been used 
to form the oil of cantharides. Buy the oil of some respectable chemist. 
Add to this four times its bulk of olive oil; should it not blister after 
it has been once used, it may be rubbed in a second or a third time. 
Counter-irritation is certain to be thus secured, and vesication is only 
a sign which pleases the uneducated eye rather than benefits the 
animal. 

Never employ any oil that is not perfectly clear. It should be filtered 
after it is made, and the slightest opacity is proof that some impurity 
is present. This direction is imperative ; for, though the ingredients 
which compose the oil are not expensive, there is scarcely an article in 
the pharmacopoeia more hable to adulteration. Let, therefore, the liquid 



PHYSIC. 



ih 




A BOTTLE CONTAINING OIL OF CANTHAEIDES. 



seem as transparent as that which is represented in the accompanying 
illustration. 

It is a common custom with most 
veterinarians to purge the horse before 
they blister its legs. The intention is to 
remove any lurking irritability out of 
the animal's system ; but such irritability 
will most probably be provoked by their 
coarse and potent blistering agents ; there- 
fore, a purgative, by increasing the de- 
bility, is only likely to render the quad- 
ruped more sensitive to outward impres- 
sions. A nice "freshener" is embodied, 
to the eye of reason, in a drastic pur- 
gative, followed by an active irritant 
applied to a most sensitive part of th 
body! 

Whenever a blister is adopted, rather 
too little than too much oil should be 
used. Enough to permeate the hair and 
reach the skin is imperative ; but the 

action rather depends on the amount of friction which accompanies the 
agent than on the quantity of the vesicatory that may be employed. 
The friction should be regulated by the condition of the surface on 
which the oil has to act, and all adjacent tender places, as the points of 
flexion in joints, parts where the skin is thin or is thrown into crevices, 
should be previously covered with a layer of simple cerate, after the 
method exemplified in the left-hand illustration on the next page, wherein 
the back of the,pastern is exhibited as thus protected. 

After the part has been rubbed for ten minutes in summer, and a 
quarter of an hour during winter, all oil may be wiped off the hair. Its 
presence there can do no good ; but as oil becomes more liquid with the 
continuance of warmth, the heat of the body may cause the blistering 
agent to run on to parts which it is not desirable to subject to its 
action. 

After the horse has been blistered, it is customary to tie up the head 
and put around the animal's neck a kind of rude apparatus denominated, 
but wherefore the author cannot tell, "a cradle." This last instrument 
is designed to prevent the creature from gnawing the blistered surface. 
No such act will, however, be indulged where the agent employed is 
pri'portioned to the sensitiveness of the quadruped ; but it is the agony 
produced by the effect of undue stimulation which generates the mad- 



84 



PHYSIC. 



aess that induces the wretched creature to use its formidable teeth in 
tearing its own flesh. 




THE BACK OF THE PASTERN AND THE HEEl PRO- 
TECTED BY BEING COATED WITH A THICK LATER 
OP SIMPLE CERATE. 




A horse's LEO AFTER THE APPLICATION OF A 
BLISTER. 



About three days after the application of the blister, the surface will 
have become dry and incrusted with a solid exudation. It is well, at 
this period, to soften the part with some emollient liquid, and one can 
hardly be found better suited to this purpose than that known as lead 
liniment. It is made by mingling together one part of Goulard's lotion 




A BRUSH FOR APPLTINQ LEAD LINIMENT TO THE LEO OP A HORSE WHICH HAS 
BECENTLT BEEN BUSTERED. 



and two parts of olive oil, whereby is formed a thick creamy compound. 
The oil soothes the harshness of the exudation, while the lead serves to 
mitigate any pain which may reside in the part. This mixture, being 
well shaken, is applied to the surface by means of what cooks call "a 
paste brush." 

The liniment usually causes the "crusts" to fall off; but the hair gen- 
erally comes off at the same time, testifying the severe irritation to which 
the skin has been subjected. 

The most pliant medical individual — the pedantic man who always 



PHYSIC. 



85 



acknowledges everytliing emanating from the schools to be correct — 
would, the author imagines, be puzzled to discover any necessary con- 
nection between the processes of balling, blistering, firing, and bleed- 
ing ; yet somehow the four operations are associated in veterinary prac- 
tice. A ball reduces the bodily activity ; a bleeding lowers the action 
of vitality ; irritants are thought to stimulate organs to which they are 
applied, but to lessen the general tonicity. An animal subjected to the 
first action appears fitted to dispense with the second ; while the last two 
seem somewhat similar to the first. But there is no accounting for in- 
congruities when men, deserting reason, consent to adopt routine as a 
guide in the treatment of so capricious a development as disease. 

Bleeding. — To lose blood was once deemed a healthful custom by the 
human race. Then, horses were regularly depleted every rise and fall. 
An old practitioner can remember the period when, on a Sunday morn- 
ing, he beheld long sheds full of agricultural quadrupeds waiting to be 
bled. The fleam used to be struck into the first horse ; then the entire 
row were, in succession, similarly treated. The operator afterward re- 
turned, and, pinning up the wound which had been made in the neck of 
the first animal, again moved down the line, pinning as he went. No 
account was taken of the amount lost by each patient, nor was any pains 
thought needful to control the current that flowed upon the ground ; but 
the creatures did not all suffer an equal depletion. The fleam was soon 
struck ; to pin up, however, took a comparatively long time for its per- 
formance. The first horse of the group, therefore, lost but little blood ; 
while the last of the line bled for a considerable period before its turn to 
be attended to arrived. 

The foregoing anecdote will show how nice our fathers were in their 
operations; but it is sad when we reflect that all this carnage was a 
sacrifice made to a mistaken idea. Human medicine has abandoned the 
antiquated custom. Veterinary physic, however, is not quite so versa- 
tile; still many quiet spots in the country may be found where old 
physic is in force, both with the employers and the practitioner. Dogs, 
even in the metropohs, are sometimes bled ; and there still exist persons 
who esteem the use of the lancet upon these animals to be a laudatory 
accomplishment. Cats were, formerly, operated upon; and the author 
knows an aged lady whose medical practice was confined to depleting 
grimalkins. There exist, even at the present enlightened period, few of 
the equine species which do not bear several scars, each testifying to a 
separate operation. Raise the jugular vein in the neck of any animal, 
by simply stopping the downward current that flows through the vessel ; 
it is ten to one but numerous circular prominences will bulge forth, to 
denote the medical activity which has been lavished on the quadruped. 



8b 



PHYSIC. 



No matUr what may be the age, the condition, or the occupation of 
the horse, certain practitioners always discover that the mute drudge 
requires depletion ; thus, an unscrupulous man may at most times earn 
a ready shilling by performing an easy operation. Every kind of ani- 
mal is liable to be so treated or so abused; and there are very few 
stables throughout this kingdom in which the sight of the fleam, blood 
stick, and can do not create the groom's delight. The strangest fact is, 
that most rural proprietors love to see the purple life drained from the 
necks of their possessions ; and bitter are the reproaches usually lavished 
on the veterinarian should a horse perish of any disease without the 
fatal termination having been hastened by the favorite measure. In- 
deed so fully are several country practitioners aware of this probability, 
that it is customary with them, when alone, to strike the vein and to pin 
up the orifice immediately. The necessary sign can then be adduced, 
should death end the case ; and a professional reputation be thereby 
saved from the assaults of aggravated stupidity. 







/ 'A 



BAI8IN0 THE JCGULAB VEIN. 



To show the necessity of venesection in most forms of disease, the 
author must be pardoned if he intrudes upon the reader a portion of his 
own experience. Some years ago a medical man, then residing in West- 
bourne Terrace, kept a well-stocked stable. The family going out of 
town during the autumn, some of the animals, much against the author's 
opinion, were allowed a few weeks' "run at grass." 

When the horses were taken up, none were found to have been bene- 



PHYSIC. 87 

fited ; but one was discovered to be much worse for its period of liberty. 
It was very weak, and its constitution evidently was shaken, for nothing 
seemed capable of invigorating it. If put into harness and driven merely 
round to the street door, the body was sure to be white with perspira- 
tion, and the poor quadruped exhibited signs of exhaustion. If permit- 
ted to remain in the stable, the creature would generally be found with 
the head depressed, the corn untouched, the breathing audible, and the 
body leaning for support against the trevise. 

The animal was in this state when the family again left London for a 
few weeks ; the horse was taken with them by railroad. Before they 
quitted town, the author found occasion to speak with the proprietor. 
The writer said that, during the sojourn of the family in the country, it 
was probable the urgency of the symptoms would necessitate the calling 
in of a local veterinary surgeon; therefore the proprietor was warned 
that the ailing quadruped was on no account to be bled ; for to deplete 
a life in so exhausted a condition was positive slaughter. 

As the author had conjectured, so events literally happened. The 
symptoms suddenly became alarming. The attendance of the nearest 
vetermarian was requested. To him the warning given to the proprietor 
was repeated. The gentleman replied that the author had not seen the 
animal in its then serious state, or he could not have tendered such 
advice. Medical etiquette forbade positive injunctions. The operation 
was performed, and the family returned to town leaving a carcass behind 
theml 

It is very seldom that the system of a horse, when doing full work, can 
endure depletion. The labor is exhausting, and the toil is sufficiently 
severe to employ it all had the animal twice its normal energy. Many 
observant stable-men are of opinion that, nurture as they may, the prov- 
ender consumed cannot be equal to the work. There are, however, too 
many persons who study to underfeed, and who nevertheless are morally 
convinced that every quadruped in their keeping not only possesses a 
sufficiency of vigor, but can part with a gallon or two of blood, twice in 
every year, with positive advantage. 

Here are two opposite convictions ; and the cost of horse flesh to each 
party, could we inspect the private accounts, would certainly best settle 
the dispute. But as men mostly object to laying open their books to 
pubhc investigation, we must, therefore, endeavor to decide this point by 
drawing inferences, after having submitted the lives of most quadrupeds 
to review. None, except the wealthy, keep horses, save for use. The 
feelings of men are seldom gratified by feeding idle animals. Two horses 
very commonly have to perform extra duty, while the master is looking 
about him and in no haste to purchase a third laborer. Rarely do we 



88 



PHYSIO. 



find three animals are kept where the owner has full employment only 
for two of his slaves. 

The horse, therefore, is generally worked to the limits of its strength. 
That there may be no doubt upon this matter, the person who has to 
judge of its capabilities is he who has an interest in the amount of an 
animal's exertions. The fact is, however, proved by the wonder excited 
when a quadruped is recorded to have reached the natural period of its 
existence. The great majority of horses in this country perish of ex- 
haustion before their maturity has been attained. The sad reality, that 
of the numbers reared in England the great majority of humanity's hum- 
ble, obedient, and willing slaves are goaded to early graves, before all 
their second teeth are up, and before the consolidation of their bones fits 
them to endure the strain of fatigue, too fearfully establishes the fate 
which beauty and submission receives at the hands of avarice. 

Man is a hard task-master ! He was so when the pyramids were 
raised ; he is so still in the Southern States of America. There is some- 
thing wrong in the creature who can thus abuse all that serve him. Had 
the horse twenty times its present strength, it would still be below the 
point of human requirement. It is a very painful occupation to look 
into a London street, and, having an understanding which can interpret 
equine significances, to observe the lame, the deformed, the starved, the 
overloaded, and the weary animals staggering along the thoroughfare, 
but to perceive none without the goad, to enforce exertion, flourished 
by its side. Yet the creatures thus used, unconscious of a holiday and 
worked through sickness or through suffering, are thought by some per- 
sons to possess such a redundancy of health that they can support or be 
benefited by the life's blood being drained, at stated periods, out of their 
wretched bodies ! 

Nevertheless it is possible a timely depletion may, upon certain occa- 
sions, save life. Neither the present 
reader nor the writer may witness so 
rare an occurrence ; yet because of the 
possibility, every horseman should be 
equal to such an emergency. For the 
performance of so trivial an operation 
certain tools are imperatively necessary. 
The first among these is a blood can or 
a tin pail, which is generally divided, 
by indented lines, into eight equal sec- 
tions. The receptacle being made to 
contain two gallons, each compartment, 
when filled, indicates a quart to have been withdrawn. Wretched horses 




A BLOOD CAN, WHICH IS MARKED TO INDI- 
CATE WHEN A QUART OF PLDID HAS BEEN 
EXTKACTED. 



PHYSIC. 



89 



have been drained to a greater extent even than two gallons ; but feboakl 
the reader possess a blood can, it is hoped that it will be indeed an 
extreme case in which he would behold the vessel once filled. 

One or two quarts should be the limits of an ordinary venesection ; 
but even that quantity may be of much more service, when aiding the 
circulation, than when withdrawn and permitted to coagulate apart from 
the body. Many practitioners, however, deplete without either excuse 
or justification. Having opened a vessel, they will allow the stream to 
flow until the poor horse staggers. Some are proud not to possess a 
blood can ; but they hold up the stable pail to catch the vital current, 
and are quite content that the most ample drain of the system, conducted 
under their supervision, cannot be otherwise than restorative. 

The next instrument requisite is a fleam. This article is much pref- 
erable to the lancet, though there exists a species of foppery among 
veterinary surgeons which tempts them to employ human implements. 




FLEAMS, OF THE NEWEST FORM, OPEN AND SHUT. 



For that reason they flourish a lancet as the more scientific indicator. A 
lancet is, certainly, necessary to puncture the eye vein, which is visible 
upon the cheek of the horse ; but as regards a vessel which is as large 
as a cart rope, for such is the dimensions of the animal's jugular, this 
last cannot demand the exhibition of vast scientific attainment to pierce 
it, or admit of the display of nice manipulation in him who operates on 
such a structure. For this reason the old-fashioned fleam is very much 
to be preferred. Assuredly it does not appear so pretty as the lancet ; 
but it always cuts with certainty and leaves a limited orifice; whereas 
the more genteel blade has inflicted awkward gashes upon living flesh 
when the creature proved restless under its infliction. 

The instrument with which the veterinarian extracts blood has been 
represented having the blade bared and having it closed. It is readily 



fiO PHYSIC. 

admitted not to be of an inviting aspect; but it is not in reality quite so 
barbarous as it appears to the beholder. The point which projects from 
one side of the blade marks the extent of its cutting surface, and indicates 
the size of that puncture which the fleam can leave behind. It is more 
safe than the lancet, which, though of a more innocent aspect, has in- 
flicted wounds of awful dimensions. For the last reason, the employment 
of the lancet by veterinary surgeons is not to be commended. 

Above the cutting point of the fleam, and upon the opposite side of 
the blade, is seen what is intended to represent a bulging piece of metal. 
That indicates the place which the operator occasionally strikes with the 
side of his hand ; its intention is to afford a blunt surface for delivery of the 
blow. It is advantageous to possess a fleam of the above form, because, 
under rare circumstances, the possibility for which it provides may be 
encountered; but for general use a blood stick is more instantaneous, 
and is more certain in its result; wherefore it is to be preferred to 
the human hand, as giving the smarter impetus to the blade. 




A BLOOD STICK, WHICH IS LOADED AI THE LARGER END. 

A blood stick is merely a hard piece of wood, six or eight inches long, 
and turned in a lathe till it has assumed the above form. The larger end 
is then hollowed ; the cavity is loaded with lead. Such a tool, though 
very diminutive, can be made to deal a heavy blow, and it is quite power- 
ful enough to send the point of the fleam through the skin and thin 
layer of muscular fiber which externally cover the jugular vein. 

However, before any attempt is made to bleed the horse, the animal's 
eyes should be bandaged. This should invariably be done before the 
fleam or blood stick are produced ; as some quadrupeds show their intel- 
ligence by dreading the operation which most veterinary surgeons regard 
with complacency. Many persons doubt whether beasts are gifted with 
imagination ; but it is not rare to encounter a steed which will stagger 
at the sight of a fleam, and when the blood stick and can are produced, 
will give every indication of approaching syncope. Consequently, if the 
reader is determined to have his horse depleted, let the eyes be disabled 
before any instrument is produced, more especially before the stick is 
attempted to be employed. Most animals, from natural timidity, shrink 
if they can discern when the blow is about to be delivered, and the 
point of the fleam is thereby frequently displaced. 



PHYSIC. 



91 



The sight should first be obscured ; then the vessel raised ; afterward 
the fleam arranged upon the huge pipe thus brought into view; when a 
sudden blow being dealt with the blood stick will cause the current to 
spurt forth. Should any accident prevent the first attempt from being 
successful, the operator should not strike twice in the same place. Re- 
peated blows upon the same spot are likely to bruise the part, or to 
cause a ragged wound ; neither of which circumstances are favorable to 
the healing process. Leave the slight incision to nature, for it very 
rarely requires any treatment, and choosing a fresh mark, repeat the 
process with better success. 




Blood being obtained by the operator, the groom approaches bearing 
the blood can. This the man presses against the horse's neck, thereby 
impeding the downward stream within the vessel and causing the vital 
current to gush forth. 

Whatever may be the urgency of the business which may demand your 
presence elsewhere, never quit at this stage of the proceeding. How- 
ever experienced or meritorious the servant may be, always remain until 



n 



PHYSIC. 



the operation is concluded. These poor men invariably possess opinions 
of their own that are stronger because of the ignorance upon which such 
notions repose. The groom may have seen a gallon, or even two gal- 




PEE8SINQ THE BLOOD CAN AOAINST THE NECK, TO ARREST THE DOWNWAEB CURRENT, AND TO 
CAUSE THE BLOOD TO FLOW TORTH. 



Ions extracted, when in his last situation. Such people delight in strong 
measures ; and he will sneer at the one or two quarts you may desire 
should be withdrawn. Be absent only for a brief space, and you may be 
certain your directions have been violated, although on your return the 
most solemn of faces should protest to the contrary. 

When the quantity has been extracted, remove the 
pressure below the orifice and the outward stream will 
cease. Then proceed to pin up. Having rendered the 
point of a pin somewhat angular, by cutting off the tip, 
the wire will pierce the integument the more readily. 
Drive it through each side of the wound, and, being in 
this situation, twist, after the fashion of a figure of oo, 
some tow or thread, or a hair pulled from the horse's 
tail, round its either extremity. Subsequently remove 
so much ' of the pin as may protrude, and the orifice will be closed by 
what surgeons denominate a twisted suture. 




TWISTED SUTURE. 



PHYSIC. 



93 



When performing this, a few precautions are imperative. In tlia 
first instance, the surfaces should not be brought immediately together. 
The wound should be left open until the lips become sticky, as when in 
that condition they unite the more readily. Next, when closing the 
orifice, all hairs should be removed, which is sometimes difficult should 
the integument have been torn asunder with a blunt fleam. The skin 
then is twisted and forced from its integrity ; but if a sharp or proper 
instrument has been used, the presence of hair is never annoying ; indeed 
it seldom requires attention. 

The sides of the incision should be adjusted with all nicety, because, 
subsequently to bleeding, healing by the first intention, or by the speedi- 
est natural process, is desirable. Hairs, when present, prevent that union 
from being perfected. They irritate the part and act as minute setons, 
which provoke suppuration. The advent of the last action is always to 
be feared after a veiu has been opened. The pus gravitates into the 
vessel and the blood becomes vitiated. The consequences frequently 
are fatal, and are always much to be lamented. 




A HORSE, AFTER BEING BLED, HAS THE HEAD TIED TO THE MANGER FOE TWENTY-FOUR HOURS. 



When the wound has been properly secured, all has not been accom- 
plished. The rack and manger must be cleared. Food or drink must 
be withheld for twenty-four hours. The halter must be fastened up to 



94 



PHYSIO. 



the bars of the hay rack ; for the animal which has just been rendered 
faint by having its blood extracted must, for the tedious space of one 
entire day and night, neither feed, allay its thirst, nor repose its tottering 
limbs. Some certain benefit, substantiated by very potent proofs, are 
necessary to justify the measure w^hich must be followed by such depri- 
vation ; for if lack of nutriment and want of rest can generate debihty, 
what must be the effect of enforced abstinence, when ensuing upon a 
sickening depletion ? 




CHAPTER III. 

SHOEING — ITS ORIGIN, ITS USES, AND ITS VARIETIES. 

Shoeing a horse is understood to signify fastening a piece of iron to 
the liorn which envelops the foot of the animal. Such an operation, at 
iirst glance, appears to be so simple an affair as to admit of few remarks ; 
but there is no subject associated with veterinary science on which more 
research has been expended, about which more bitter discussion has been 
indulged, or with regard to which proprietors and practitioners are more 
at variance. Certainly no matter can possibly be more intimately con- 
nected with the sufferings and the comforts of the equiue race. 





EAEIY ARABIAN SHOE. 



ARABIAI? SHOE OF A MODERN DATE. 



The custom of fixing iron to the hoof of the quadruped would seem, 
at the present moment, to be all but universal. This habit was probably 
derived from the East. In portions of the Desert of Arabia a primitive 
looking shoe is still employed, which, like most things in that region, 
has possibly remained unaltered during the passage of centuries. Such 
articles retain the impress of a by-gone era, being merely pieces of sheet- 
iron stamped, not forged, according to a particular pattern. The reader 
may be puzzled to form an accurate notion of such things; therefore 
illustrations, representing present and ancient shoes, are appended. Both 
partake of the same general characteristics, but, among a people so widely 
scattered as "the children of the Desert," doubtless numerous variations, 
as regards particulars, might be selected. 

(95) 



96 



\ 
SHOEING. 



The preceding look like things produced during the childhood of 
civilization ; but to assure the reader that at one period horse shoes 
resembling the foregoing were almost universal, below is subjoined 
sketches of those adopted, even at a recent date, by the Moorish, the 
Persian, and the Portuguese nations. These people are widely distrib- 






A MOORISn, A PEEtjlA.N, AND A PORTUGUESE SHOE. COKtED FROM GOODWIN'S SYSTEM OF SHOEING HORSES. 

uted ; but they all are characterized by the tenacity with which each has 
clung to the habits of its ancestors. The shape pervading the examples 
brought forward is too eccentric, the generic hkeness is too remarkable, 
and the peculiarities of feature impressed on each is too conspicuous, 
to permit of their united evidence being pushed on one side with any 
commonplace reference to an accidental resemblance. 

Succeeding the former engravings is appended an authentic sketch of 
the old English horse shoe which was in common use at the commencement 

of the last century. When compared 
with the plate of the Arab, which doubt- 
less was the original, it assuredly exhib- 
its signs of intention. The calkin, in- 
tended to prevent slipping, we here see, 
as likewise in the foregoing examples, 
is by no means a modern invention. 
The position of the nail holes has been 
materially altered: they have been 
moved from the center, and have been 
made to range around the outer margin 
and to pierce the solid horn of the toe, 
which previously was scrupulously 
spared. The fastenings, likewise, have 
increased in number, having grown from eight to fourteen. The central 
opening has been enlarged ; but the thickness of the iron and the gen- 
eral figure, however, demonstrate the source whence the original was 
derived. 

Thin plates of iron were once nailed as shoes to the hoofs throughout 




OLD BNOUSF SHOB. COPIED FROM CLARK'S 
WORK ON SHOEING. 



SHOEING. 9'^ 

Great Britain. The breadth was not, perhaps, considered a decided dis- 
advantage, when roads were few and much marshy soil had to be crossed 
in a day's journey. But if this peculiar form enabled a steed to walk 
more securely on a soft surface, the suction, inseparable from such land, 
must also have exposed the animal to the frequent loss of the appendage. 
When regarding these unavoidable results, we can perceive the reasons 
which have dictated all the subsequent alterations. The central opening 
had been enlarged, in the expectation of thereby counteracting the suck- 
ing effects attending the movements over a marshy country ; while the 
nails had been increased in number, in the expectation of thus gaining 
additional security. The fastenings had likewise been ranged round the 
rim, so that these might be driven directly through the hardest part of, 
and have longer hold upon, the most resistant portion of the horn. 

Such plates were at one time, no doubt, in general use throughout 
Great Britain ; and illustrating whence they were derived, there may be 
adduced a well-known fact. The race-horse is of almost pure Eastern 
blood. The trainer's stable is a very conservative locality, into which 
changes slowly enter, and where names are retained long after their ap- 
plicability has ceased. A thorough-bred is spoken of to this day as 
running in "plates;" although the contest is decided in shoes resembling 
those worn by other animals, only of lighter make and of the highest 
possible finish. 

The aspect of the old English shoe evidently suggests a resort to the 
hammer; it also indicates that the introduction of regular roads had 
began to compel the employment of a closer and harder species of metal 
than heretofore had been esteemed necessary. No modern Nimrod dare, 
however, essay to career across the best-drained portion of country on a 
horse shod with such a shoe as that last represented. Before a second 
field were entered he would anticipate a steed with bare feet. No cab- 
man, however reckless, would take a quadruped on to the rank shod in 
such a fashion. Were an article of this form brought out now, no one 
who knew anything of such matters would patronize the novelty. 
Nevertheless, though it be deficient in all present requirements, it dis- 
plays certain features, which have been preserved by the smith and 
handed down from father to son until the supposed improvements have 
reached the existing generation. 

The arrangement of the nails near to the outer edge, and the fixing of 
them into the hard outer wall of the crust, are methods still followed, 
though experience has demonstrated that such numerous bodies, driven 
almost perpendicularly into a thin and a brittle substance, were better 
calculated to break the hoof than likely to hold on that which it was 
their single office to retain. The modern smith, moreover, does not 

1 



98 



SHOEING. 




the present method of fasteninq 
the enuush horss shoe on to the 
horse's foot. 



generally puncture the toe of the foot; but the situations of the nail 
holes and the direction of the nails within such a part must have been 
originally regarded as a vast improvement upon the prevailing customs. 
That which was formerly an innovation is, however, now the custom. 
No other mode of driving the nails is at 
present in general practice ; though the mod- 
ern veterinary surgeon recognizes all the 
evils which attend the habit, yet these evils 
he contentedly classes as diseases, instead of 
seeing in them the natural consequences of a 
faulty system. 

In the sandy Desert of Arabia, where a 
flat and perfectly dry country rendered suc- 
tion impossible, any degree of tension, how- 
ever feeble, might serve to keep the horse's 
shoe in its situation. On such a soil, eight lateral fastenings — each no 
stronger than a stout wire — might afford all needful security. The size 
of the holes assures us of the bulk of the nail heads, the projection of 
which, probably, served to give security to the tread, as well as to retain 
the metal ; being inserted at one end and driven with the hammer to the 
other extremity of the opening, they might be an ample provision for 
such a purpose, when the desert permitted no vast amount of wear, and 
the nature of the animal assured lightness of motion. 

The English reader may feel disposed to sneer at the Asiatic manner 

of fastening the shoe upon the horse's 
hoof; but he will do well to inquire, 
" whether the modern method of at- 
taining the same object is altogether 
free from objection?" To enable 
him to do this, it is necessary that 
the composition of the outer wall of 
the equine hoof should be explained. 
The wall of the foot is so much 
horn as can be seen when the hoof 
rests upon the ground, and when it is 
viewed either immediately from the 
front or directly from the sides. This 
wall is supplied from two sources. 
The coronet, or the prominence to 
be seen immediately above the hoof, 
secretes the outer layer of horn, which is the darkest, is very much the 
hardest, and is the most brittle of all the constituents of the lioof. The ' 




DIAGRAM, ILLUSTRATIVE OF THE DIFFERENT KINDS 
OF HORN COMPOSING THE HORSE'S HOOF. 

a a. The wall. The outer dfuk portion Is called 
the or\ist of the wall, and the light-colored, soft, 
inner horn is thrown into the laminre, or thin 
leaves, whereby it gains extent of attachment 
to its secreting membrane. 

h. The lisht-colorcd and yielding horn of the sole. 

c. The tinted but elastic horn of the frog. 



SHOEING. 



99 



laminae, or the highly-sensitive covering of the internal foot, secrete the 
inward layer of horn, which is soft, tough, and devoid of color. 

These two opposite and distinct secretions are, by nature, joined to- 
gether, forming one body. Now, the intimate union of opposite proper- 
ties endues the substance, thus compounded, with the characteristics of 
both. The hard, outward horn was needed to protect the foot against 
those stones and rocks over which the animal was intended to journey. 
The internal, white horn, being fastened upon this substance, acted as a 
corrective to its harsh nature, preventing it from breaking, from splitting, 
and from chipping, which it else must have done under the weight it was* 
destined to sustain, and when fulfilling the purposes to which the horse's 
foot was designed to be subjected. 

Pathology has indirectly recognized the intention of this junction, by 
acknowledging that condition to be a state of disease, wherein the two 





FALSE ftUARTER, OR A DEPIOIENCT OP 
THE OUTER WALL. 



IE ONLY POSSIBLE RELIEF FOR 
FALSE QUARTER. 





BECnON OF A horse's FOOT AFFECTED WITH SEEDY TOE. 



A FOOT WITH SANDCRACK. 



kinds of horn are separated. Such a division is known as a seedy toe 
and as false quarter ; and the foot is recognized as weakened when such 
a want of union is discovered. The outer, dark-colored horn becomes 
more brittle ; the white, internal horn grows more soft for the want of 
that junction by means of which each communicated its attributes to the 
other. So also when the two descriptions of horn, although united, 
cease to influence one another, pathology acknowledges this condition as 
a morbid alteration, known as a changed state of hoof Thus, when a 
sandcrack is visible, or the wall divides from the ground surface to the 



J 00 



SHOEING. 



coronet, tVie foot's incasement is recognized as unhealthy; but in the 
forge, the application of such facts is, by most smiths, utterly ignored. 

The untutored Arab, however, takes advantage of the united proper- 
ties of the horn. In warm countries the horse's hoof grows strong and 
thick. The uninstructed Asiatic allows the wall to descend half an inch 
below the sole, and right through the entire of this portion of projecting 
hoof he drives the nails which secure the- shoe. Proceeding thus, he 
does not injure the foot by the insertion of foreign bodies through its 
more brittle substance, while he secures the united resistance and tough 
* qualities of the complex covering of the foot. 





THE MODE OF FASTENINQ THE ABABIAN 
SHOE TO THE HOOF OF THE HORSE. 



FRiCTURED CONDITION OF THE HORN, CONSE- 
QUENT UPON DRIVING NAILS THROUGH THE 
BRITTLE OUTER CRUST OF THE WALL. 



The English smith, on the contrary, by ranging the holes for the fas- 
tenings round the edge of the shoe, drives the nails only into the harder 
kind of horn, and transfixes the crust for a considerable distance. The 
English shoeing nail is meant to pierce only the black or outward sub- 
stance of the wall. This may, seemingly, afford the better hold ; but it 
also offers the more dangerous dependence. There is, likewise, the peril 
to be braved of pricking the sensitive foot, should the nail turn a little 
to one side — an accident which not unfrequently happens. There is, 
moreover, another danger, namely, that which the forge calls driving a 
nail "too fine;" that is, forcing it near the white horn rather than send- 
ing it directly through the center of the narrow dark crust. There re- 
mains to be enumerated a third peril. Horses, with thin walls, present 
difficulties to the shoeing smith. He is afraid of either pricking the foot 
or driving the nail "too fine;" should the last accident ensue, tlie nail 
will, upon the animal being worked, bulge inward, will provoke acute 
lameness, often causing pus to be generated. To avoid these evils, he 
points his nails outward ; and, by so doing, not unseldom induces the 
harsh outer crust to crack, to split up, or to chip off. To such an extent 



SHOEING. 



101 



does this sometimes happen, that the smith is occasionally puzzled to 
find the place where a nail will hold. 

It is a common thing to hear veterinary surgeons, throughout the 
length and breadth of the land, attribute to the operation of shoeing all 
the evils by which the hoof is affected. They generally assert that a 
colt invariably has an open, healthy foot, until it is shod ; but, from the 
day upon which the animal enters the forge, the horn begins to be 
irregularly secreted, and the hoof to grow misshapen ; while horsemen 
have a well-known saying, that " one horse could wear out four pair of 
feet." 

Every rider knows how vexatious it is for a horse to fling a shoe. 
Every horseman appreciates the consequence of walking his steed, even 
one mile, along the common road, to gain the nearest forge, where the 
loss may be made good. Such an accident were an impossibility, if the 
nails were firm. There is always danger, as they are at present fixed, 
of these fastenings breaking away from the substance of the hoof; yet 
no one has hitherto ventured to question the existing method of shoeing 
prevalent throughout Europe. 

But the worst evil which results from a shoe becoming partially re- 
leased, is neither the inconvenience it 
occasions the rider, nor fracture, often 
produced, on the hoof of the animal. 
Some portion of the horn first yields. 
This mishap throws greater stress upon 
the remaining fastenings. The shoe be- 
comes loose. The majority of the nails 
give way, but one may continue firm. 
This is the greatest peril. The shoe is 
fastened as by a pivot, and with every 
step swings from side to side. The re- 
leased nails stick upward — ^the earth or 
roadway, as well as the clinches, pre- 
venting these from leaving their places. 
When the foot is in the air, the shoe 
hangs pendulous. When the foot is 
placed upon the ground, it may be impaled upon the nails that protrude 
upward. Many steps are seldom taken without such a result. The 
shoe gets under the foot. The blunt and jagged points are, by the huge 
«veight of the quadruped, forced through the soft sole or frog at the bot- 
tom of the hoof; a dangerous wound is inflicted, the uneven metal being 
often driven for some distance into the body of the coffin-bone. 
. Against the Arabian method of driving the nails, it may be advanced 




THE SHOE PARTIAILT BREAKS FROM THE 
INSECURE FASTENINGS, AND ONE OP 
THE NAILS, STICKING UP, PIERCES THE 
SOLE OF THE FOOT. 



102 



SHOEING. 



that il the equine hoof is permitted to grow, the elongation of the hom 
at the toe and its non-removal by the knife would occasion this portion 
of the foot to protrude, and ultimately curl upward like a Turkish slip- 
per. — sxich being the result of long-continued neglect, as is exemplified 
in the feet of too many donkeys. 



i 

% 





THE NEGLECTED AND LONG UNSHOD HOOF OF AN ASS. 



ENGLISH MODE OF PARING lUK H0K3E'S 
HOOF. 



It is not proposed to subject the horse's foot to anything like the 
usage to which the hoof of the ass is habitually exposed. All the writer 
contemplates is moderating the smith's employment of the drawing- 
knife and of the rasp, enforcing some caution in the application of the 
red-hot iron, when burning a seat for the shoe. Why need the wall be 
always cut away till it is level with the horny sole ? Why bring this 
last portion of the pedal covering, which is naturally soft and yielding, 
on a line with that part of the crust which is imbued with a power of 
resistance ? Nay, the harder wall is protected by the shoe on which it 
rests; while the softer sole is brought near to the ground, being left 
exposed to an injury, which the lesion known as bruise of the sole proves 
not unfrequently to happen. 

The sole, being exposed thus close to the earth, is the fruitful source 
of several "accidents." The soft horn of this region being brought so 
low, is rendered constantly wet. The consequence is a harshness of 
texture, perfectly opposed to the evident intent of nature. This harsh- 
ness is one of the most common sources of corns. The edge of the sole 
rests upon the web of the shoe — the descent of the coffin-bone, being 
unable to play upon a yielding sole, squeezes the flesh between the in- 
ferior surface of the bone and the upper surface of the shoe. This is 
acknowledged as the principal source of corns. Stones and other rub- 
bish often become impacted between the horny sole and the shoe. In 
this situation, the foreign substances are retained so firmly and provoke 
such acute lameness that it is common for all stable-men to keep by 
them, as well as it is general for most horsemen to carry, a curved tool 



SHOEING. loa 

denominated "a picker." Such annoyances, with many others, might 
be easily avoided, could the English smith only be prevailed' upon not 
to pare the sole so thin tliat blood bedews its surface, and then to make 
the level of the diminished part the point whereto the crust is to be 
lowered. 

Another probable consequence, attending the customary cutting away 
of the horse's sole, has not been sufficiently considered. 

The shape of this part, its yielding character, and its position. imme- 
diately under the coffin-bone, all should be accepted as proofs that it is 
of service in supporting the weight of the body. It proves nothing to 
assert that if the sole is removed, the pedal bone will not fall down. 
The burden may repose upon the numerous laminae and upon the bulg- 
ing rim of the coronet, as well as drag upon the lateral cartilages. Here 
is sufficient material to uphold even a greater load ; but can such a force 
be arbitrarily imposed by human authority without provoking nature's 
resentment ? The parts here named are the very regions which are the 
common seats of foot disease. Ossified cartilages — irregular secretion 
of coronary horn and laminitis, in the acute or in the chronic form — are 
very common to stables ; so also is navicular disease, which the trim- 
ming of the frog is also likely to induce. Horse proprietors, therefore, 
would do well to reflect upon the above possibility, when their property 
is again submitted to the unchecked abuses of t^e forge. 

Humanity is not pleaded in this case. Human interest alone is urged 
in favor of the plan proposed. Every horse owner knows how common 
it is for the animal to return tender-footed from the forge. Every person 
can appreciate the unpleasant sensation experienced when a nail has 
been pared to the quick. 

Immediate lameness, or violent exhibition of acute disease, is required 
to convince some people that dumb animals feel anything ; but a peculi- 
arity displayed in the manner of placing the foot on the earth is, to the 
author's mind, sufficient proof of some painful sensation. In two or 
three days, the newly-exposed horn may resume its protective function, 
and the mode of progressing, by such a time, is generally restored to its 
accustomed soundness. But such is not invariably the case, and, when 
it does happen, the seeds of future disaster may, nevertheless, have been 
sown. . Indeed, so conscious are dealers of the injury done to the horse's 
foot by the rasp and the drawing-knife, that, as a rule, they avoid having 
their new stock reshod while these animals remain in their possession. 

To rectify the foregoing evils, the author would humbly propose thai 
half an inch of crust should be allowed to protrude below a sole of mod- 
erate thickness. That all idea of breadth of shoe affording the slightest 
protection be at once abolished ; because the broad web has been proved, 



104 



SHOEING. 



by the general employment of the picker, rather to afford harbor to hurt- 
ful particles than to protect the sole from injury. That the shoe be made 
only just wide enough to afford bearing to the wall of the hoof, and to 
allow sufficient room for the nail holes to pierce the substance of the 
iron. The crust was designed to sustain the weight of the animal's 
body, and the most ignorant smith would not think of permitting the 
entire burden to bear upon the sole, A space large enough to give 
room for the nails and to provide an ample rest for the wall of the hoof 
is all that can be of use ; and, being so, all additional width only renders 
the shoe of an unnecessary weight. 

The use of the sole is well known to be distinct from directly support^ 
ing any portion of the body ; but it may be of all service in upholding 
occasional weight. That other parts receive the primary burden, is 
illustrated in the forge every day — it being an ordinary custom with 
the smith to pare the sole of the foot till it yields readily to pressure 
from the man's thumb, or until blood oozes through every pore of the 
structure. A further proof of this is the custom of removing a portion 
of sole when the animal chances to be bled from the foot ; also, by the 
veterinary surgeon, without hesitation or fear of consequence, taking 
away large pieces of the horn whenever the sole happens to be bruised 
and under-run. The function of the sole is to endue the tread with 
spring and elasticity ; that it may perform its proper office, the removal 
of it from all possibility of hinderance to its freedom of motion becomes 
a necessity. This requirement is best complied with by allowing the 
part to remain so high as anticipates all possibility of its coming in 
contact with either the web of the shoe or the ground. 

Nature makes nothing in vain ; or, in other words, every part which 
she creates has its destined uses. To recog- 
nize such a maxim, and then to employ a 
smith to destroy the horny sole which nature 
provided, is to acknowledge wisdom, but to 
follow ignorance. At all events, putting 
every appeal to higher principles of action on 
one side, let mere cunning or let worldly 
prudence decide the point. The present 
method has been tried, and has lamentably 
failed; consequently it is proved an annoy- 
ance which countenances any feasible change. 
But those who are prejudiced in favor of 
the usual proceedings may exclaim against 
the annihilation of the web, and talk about 
the need of protecting the sole. The old English shoe (in which the 




ILLUSTRATING HOW LAKGE AND SMALL 
STONES BECOME IMPACTED BETWEEN 
THE SOLE AND THE WEB OF THE SHOE. 



SHOEING. 105 

web was so broad the horse's foot rested on a flat metallic surface) dia 
not defend the sole, else the web would not have been sacrificed. But 
what kind of protection does the present form actually afford? Why, 
its only use really appears to be that of affording a place of lodgment 
for gravel and for pebbles, or of a medium for the generation of 'corns. 

Wei'e half an inch of crust allowed to remain, the web and all its 
dangers might be abolished. The weight would thereby be lightened, 
while the tenacity of wet clay would be deprived of any leverage on 
which to act. Two primary requisites toward a good hunting shoe 
would then be obtained. The nail openings also being brought close 
to the inner margin, and the fastenings being driven in a direction slant- 
ing outward, a hold would be taken of both species of horn which unites 
to form the wall of the foot ; and the nails, being firmly clinched upon a 
tough body in lieu of a brittle substance, would be retained with greater 
certainty. The weight of metal required for such a shoe would be de- 
creased, thereby materially lessening the labor of the horse ; while if 
the nails pierced the toe of the crust, a firmer hold would be obtained, 
and the quartei's would be left free instead of being fettered, as is un- 
avoidable so long as the present system of nailing is continued. Corns, 
bruise of the sole, brittle hoof, etc. would be avoided, and the dangers 
of the forge no longer perpetuated. Lastly, the comfort of the animal 
being more tenderly considered, the motions of the quadruped would be 
so much the easier, and the more pleasant — man's real interest being 
best consulted by strict attention to the happiness of all the lives which 
serve' him, as every form of existence succumbs to protracted suffering. 

The reader, however, may have experienced the deception which com- 
monly attends every novelty in horse shoes. Therefore he may think, 
when the author proposes a return to an old, a 
barbarous, and an exploded form of fastening 
on the horse's shoe, he simply aims at trying 
an experiment with the living property of other 
people. The writer does not propose to con- 
tend against suspicions; but he produces the 
plan which he advocates, and contrasts it with 
the ordinary method of nailing; when, having 
placed the evidence before his judges, he leaves ™^ authoe's proposed mode 

^ JO) OP NAILING. 

them to decide on the merits of the adverse 

modes, as regards their likelihood to perform the offices of retaining a 

ling of iron with safety and with advantage upon the foot of a horse. 

According to the above plan, the hold would be much firmer; it 
would embrace the two kinds of horn which nature ordained should 
unite to form the wall of the hoof. The nail would pierce those tough 




106 SHOEING. 

and reriistant substances which were designed in their unity to support 
the animal's body, instead of being driven perpendicularly into the more 
brittle covering of the foot, thereby dividing the fibers and frequently 
injuring the hoof, by causing large flakes to chip off its protecting 
envelope. 

The present practice of the forge chiefly consists in removing as much 
horn as possible : as if the covering of the foot were not a natural growth, 
sent for a healthful purpose ; or it was the sprouting of disease, which 
it became imperative should be excised. The shoe is dragged off, and 
afterward the punch, the pliers, and the drawing-knife are employed. 

The author does not object to the legitimate use of the last-named 
instrument; but to its abuse he dissents. As the shoe alone rests upon 
the earth, of course the hoof lacks needful attrition. Therefore, were 
no cutting resorted to, the horn would be prolonged, and the shoe ulti- 
mately afford no protection to the foot, being carried forward by the 
growth of the toe. ' It is not unusual to see the iron, which originally 
was nailed to and encircled the hoof, borne onward by the continued 
development of the horny secretion, in consequence of neglect having 
allowed the shoe to remain on the foot for months. 




THE SHOE, WHEN SUFFERED TO EEMAIN UPON THE FOOT FOR TOO LONG A PERIOD, IS CARRIED FORWARD BT 
THE GROWTH OP HORN, AND LEAVES THE HEELS UNPROTECTItD. 

It is well known to physiologists, that the constant removal of any 
natural growth is calculated to result in one of three effects: it may 
stimulate production, causing the willfully-excised material to be secreted 
in unnatural abundance ; or, on the other hand, it may interfere with the 
powers of growth and occasion the material to be withheld altogether; 
else the operation may cause the product to be secreted in a diminished 
quantity. These conditions of hoof are those which the English smith 
most often complains of, little suspecting that he may innocently have 
aggravated the very evil over which he so loudly laments. Weak, shelly 
feet are generally attributed to the colt having been bred upon marshy 
soil. This accepted reason may answer its purpose; but it does not 
explain why, upon the horse being taken into work, or being carried a 



SHOEING. 



lot 



long distance from the place of its birth, the deficiency should become 
more conspicuous, and the weakness grow more annoying with each 
successive shoeing. Thick, stubborn hoofs are too common to need 
much comment; but this effect is generally attributed to the lateral 
nailing, which confines the expansion of the quarters. Does not this 
excuse suggest the wisdom of carrying the fastenings to the toe, where 
the greater thickness of the horn would afford better hold to the nails, 
while at the same time the amount of substance would forbid all idea 
of motion ? 





SPECIMENS OF A LOW AND OP A HIGH HEEL. 



In reply to the above suggestion, it may be answered that English 
smiths like to spare the toe of the horse's foot. All the strain of draught 
is thrown upon this part, which must be dug forcibly into the earth 
whenever the load is heavy or is difficult to draw. In fast-trotting 
animals, the toe receives the impetus of the blow when the foot descends 
upon the ground ; therefore, it is urged, the smith has found out by ex- 
perience that no nail should weaken this portion of the hoof The 
answer appears to be final, but, on consideration, it will be found of 
small value. Mr. Woodger, one of the best veterinary surgeons in 
London, informs the writer he prefers to drive nails through the toe of 
the horse's foot. 

In the first place, the different methods of fastening on the shoe have 
to be properly considered. The author proposes a simple puncture 
through all the substance, which, as the opening made is filled with 
metal, can hardly produce weakness in the structure. The smith drives 
the nail perpendicularly, not through the wall of the hoof, but into its 
outward investing envelope, or into a material particularly harsh and 
resentful of interference — thus separating the fibers of the horn, destroy- 
ing its integrity, and, of course, weakening its capability of sustaining 
violence. 



108 



SHOEING. 



But, bearing in mind the foregoing reply, supposed to be urged in 
defense of the established custom, let it now be asked, does the English 
smith really respect the part, about the integrity of which he appears 
to be so anxious ? How does he act, when he fits upon the foot of a 
horse a shoe having a clip at the toe ? Does he, then, scrupulously re- 
spect the most forward portion of the hoof? No 1 He actually employs 
his drawing-knife to cut away the horn, thus forming a bed or seat 
within which the clip can lie ensconced. Nor is this all ; he turns up 
the heels of the shoe afterward, thus forming a calkin, and actually 
throwing the bearing of the hoof on that portion of the foot which he 
has just denuded of its natural protection. 





A SHOE ■miH A CLIP AT THE TOE. 



THE INCISION WHICH PEEPAUES THE FOOT TO 
RECEIVE THE OLIP. 



Against all objections embodying the cruelty of this mode of proceed- 
ing, it may be responded that the horn is not endowed with sensation ; 
that it can be cut or burned without awakening the slightest feeling ; 
and, therefore, the introduction of the present remark is entirely out of 
place. While listening to such talk, it might be inferred those processes 
which a few people speak of as exciting no feeling, were positively the 
sources of pleasure to the animal. But if shoeing is to the horse so per- 
fectly painless an operation, what makes many of these quadrupeds dread 
its infliction, and refuse to enter the forge ? Is it excess of happiness 
that occasions several of these creatures to resist the office of the smith, 
and provokes a few actually to struggle so violently to escape his atten- 
tions as to sacrifice their existences ? Is it any form of ecstasy that 
renders most animals fidgety while being shod, or is it the restlessness 
of perfect bliss which induces nearly all to move about as though they 
were anxious to escape ? 

The horse is naturally docile and obedient. To serve man is its 
destiny, to obey its master is its delight. To please the human savage, 
it deforms a beautiful frame before it is matured; and, under the ihi- 



SHOEING. 109 

pulse of fear, submits to usage which destroys the value of its life. In 
such a creature, which is denied the use of words, actions must be rea- 
sonably construed, if we desire to interpi-et its emotions. The acquies- 
cence of ages has viewed contortion as the evidence of agony; and 
universal opinion has regarded nervous movements as being indicative 
of fear or of suffering. 

The smith, to quiet timidity, may strike " the brute " with his heavy 
hammer, or with his scarcely lighter pincers. But no severity can 
deprive flesh of its inherent privilege to writhe, when tortured. Fear- 
ful injuries have resulted from the smith's impatience. Every blow, 
however, does not lead to an inquiry; though any animal, having a 
most retentive memory, may on the next occasion shy as it approaches 
the door of the forge ; or it may ever after, with that strange perversity 
for which thoughtless proprietors are at a loss to account, prove resist- 
ful at the approach of the shoeing smith. Nevertheless, though the 
pantomime of terror should be a language universally comprehended, 
few of those most accustomed to horses can see anything in the nervous 
spasms of the animal but the exhibition of a vice which needs to be re- 
sisted ! Such people will imagine they deserve to be commended when, 
by the exertion of their utmost force, they have overpowered the mute 
timidity which was endeavoring to appeal to the sympathy of its heart- 
less superiors. 

Calkins to the shoes of the horse, as at present made, are positive 
abominations. The shoe, in the first instance, is forged too long for the 
foot, when, the extra length of iron being bent downward, a calkin is 
established. Below, the author presents a sketch, made from memory, 
of the highest calkin he ever remembers to have looked upon. It was 
encountered in the country, soon after the breaking up of a severe frost ; 
and, probably, it was intended to coun- 
teract the wear of metal which invariably 
accompanies a frozen condition of the 
highways. It would, however, with a 
change of weather, fail in its intent; for 
the principal wear is then endured by 
the toe of the shoe, and the heel com- 
paratively escapes friction. All such 
things operate according to their height. 
They fling the entire bearing forward, 
where, without any such aid, it must ^ high calkin. 

strongly press. Although contraction of 

the tendons is mostly confined to cart horses, (and this constrained posi- 
tion of the foot must favor such an affection,) nevertheless the smith 




110 SHOEING. 

may receive it as an unjust accusation when lie is told that high calkins 
are to blame for the spread of such a state of disease. 

The author, probably, has said enough about the evils attendant on 
the present system of shoeing; and, although the subject is far from 
exhausted, he yields to the reader's desire of learning what the writer 
would substitute in the place of that which causes the numerous evils 
he has denounced. The reformer's office is but half performed when the 
bad is exposed. The most difficult part remains to be discharged — that 
of conceiving and of declaring the good which shall fill the void left by 
the necessary destruction of the evil. 

The author is conscious that, after having condemned so much, he has 
placed himself under an obligation to adduce that which he believes to 
be grounded on right principles. When doing this, the mighty question 
of expense is entirely ignored. It is his office to make known the 
remedy ; he has no concern with the cost of its application. Gentlemen, 
however, though exacting the utmost service from the horse, generally 
begrudge the price ,of the iron which must be ground down while the 
patient quadruped is laboring for its task-master's benefit. With too 
many proprietors the cheapest is the best form of shoe. The temptation 
of saving a few pence frequently sways the judgment in favor of some 
particular article. The welfare and the life of earth's most beautiful 
ornament is, by too many human beings, reduced to a money considera- 
tion. So thoroughly is this fact appreciated that, when a new shoe is 
submitted to the notice of the forge, its chances of success are always 
judged by the charge for which it can be manufactured, apart fi'om the 
merits of the invention. 

There is, however, a custom general in the forge which has been dis- 
carded by other trades. The linen-draper tickets up the goods in which 
he deals ; and, be the customer rich or poor, the price is known to both. 
The smith, however, will charge the tradesman three shillings and six- 
pence, or four shillings, the set, for a horse's shoes ; while the person of 
independent property, or in the upper sphere of life, he makes pay five 
shillings for the self-same article. This rule can be based on no principle 
of fair dealing, and it needs only to be exposed to be immediately over- 
thrown. Yet, even up to the present time, so exploded and so anti- 
quated a rule of trade prevails in the* forge, where the addition of an 
extra sixpence is unjustly made to turn the scale of merit. 

However, the author has here nothing to do with such considerations. 
His duty is confined to freely stating his conscientious convictions, and 
to acknowledging the reader as the appointed judge of the soundness or 
unsoundness of his conclusions. Impressed with such a behef, the fol- 
lowing form of shoe is submitted to the public. It is, by the writer, 



SHOEING. 



11] 



designated "a slipper shoe;" and the appearance of such a protection^ 
when fixed upon the foot of a heavy horse, is presented below. 

The principal peculiai'ity in this shoe is the long strip of metal which 
rises above the upper surface and conceals about three-quarters of an 
inch of the toe. This is not an enlarged kind of clip, but a hollow re- 
ceptacle, which projects above the shoe and covers part of the hoof. 
The use will be best understood when stated that it confers the name — 
the slipper shoe. The toe is sheltered within the shallow cavity, and its 
purpose is to afford the stay which the clip imperfectly provides at the 
expense of the horn's destruction. When the fore portion of the foot is 
being dug into the earth, this provision, while it allows the hoof to be 
employed in its integrity, will prevent all the stress being transferred to 
the nails, and thus hinder the clinches being loosened. 




THE FOOT OF A HEAVY ANIMAL, 'WITH THE SUPPER SHOE FIXED ON IT. 



This shoe has no web. It consists of a piece of iron the breadth of 
which is merely sufficient to afford a secure lodgment for the crust. The 
thing possesses true calkins, but their existence does not interfere with 
the level of the upper surface on which the foot rests. The shoe is 
forged of one thickness from toe to heel ; and a portion of metal under 
each quarter being removed, leaves the calkin, which thus only serves to 
maintain the evenness of the bearing. A slipper shoe, adapted for a 
lighter kind of animal than was supposed in the above illustration, and 
not fixed on the foot, is presented on the next page. 

It may possibly be urged that in thus forming the calkin, the author 



112 



SHOEING. 



has weakened the strength of the quarters. Nature has, however, set 
the example, by weakening the horn at the quarters ; nevertheless, by so 
doing she has not destroyed the strength of the hoof. The quarters of 
an old shoe, when removed after six weeks' hard wear, invariably are 
not sensibly diminished in substance, showing that the lessened amount 
of horn communicates small friction to the metal. Besides, the toe is 
supported upon massive iron, while the heels are upheld by blocks of the 
same metal. A law of mechanics instructs us that if the extremities of 
any powerful substance are adequately sustained, the body which bridges 
over the space may be without support. The heels being raised to an 
equal height with the toe, the metal left at the quarters, as it is removed 
from attrition, is imagined to be fully equal to the necessities of its posi- 
tion. 




A nEAVr SHOE. 




A LIGHT SHOE. — SHOWING THE MANNER IN WHICH CALKINS MAT BE POEMED, WITHOUT ANT 
INCREASE OP WEIGHT. 

The diagram exhibits the Slipper 5hoe, as suited for different breeds of animals; also shows the 
sameness in both kinds of manufacture. 



Most existing shoes are fullered, or have a hollow space, narrow but 
long, near to the outer margin. Into this empty void or groove the 
heads of the nails are received ; but as the substance in front is ground 
down by wear, of course the duration of the shoe must be shortened in 
proportion to the depth of the fullering. That the reader may fully com- 
prehend the signification of a fullered shoe, on the following page is a 
copy, made from Mr. Goodwin's excellent work on Shoeing, which the 
author can recommend as the fullest, the most explicit, and altogether the 
best book on this topic which was ever written in the English language. 

By inspecting the next illustration, which represents the ground sur- 
face, the reader will perceive an indented void near to the outer margin. 



SHOEING. 



113 



Behind this indentation or fullered cavity the iron gradually slopes away^ 
so that the substance which is exposed to wear, and on which the hors«> 
must travel, consists of the narrow strip that extends round the outward 
edge of the shoe. 





A SHOE, WITH THB NAllS COUNTERSUNK. 

(Ground surface.) 



A FULLERED SHOE. 

(Ground surface.) 



The author's proposed shoe contemplates iron of an equal thickness at 
every point which is usually exposed to wear. The nails are driven into 




SIAGRAHS, SHOWING THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PUILERINO AND COUNTERSINKING, FOR RECEIVINQ THE 
NAIL HEAD OF A HORSE'S SHOE. 



Fullering, or a free indentation round the shoe. 
This space is indicated by the dark portion 
of the diagram, and within which the heads 
of the nails repose. 



Countersinking, or only removing so much 
metal as may be filled up by the heads of 
the nails which are to retain the shoe 
upon the horse's foot. 



holes made to fit close around the heads of those fastenings, so that the 
shoe being fixed, no loss of substance is to be detected ; for the nail heads 
fill the spaces which were countersunk for their admission. 

The nails pierce the toe of the proposed new shoe. This part is 
selected, because this portion of hoof is covered with the thicker horn ; 
therefore is indicated as the region where all stress should bear. The 
author is aware that, among smiths, there is a strong objection to driv- 
ing nails in the center of the wall. Yet it seems to the writer that a 
more violent outrage is inflicted by actually removing a portion of its 
substance, so as to make an abiding place for a clip, than by piercing 
obliquely the strongest part of the hoof, subsequent to the toe having 
grown below the true ft)ot. 

The thickness of wall there offers several advantages, when consider- 
ing the retention of nails. The solidity of the secretion is a proof that 
this portion of the hoof is not endowed with motion. Consequently, 
when fastening a piece of iron to it, we are not fearful of interfering 



lU SHOEING. 

with the exercise of a healthful function. Such would he the case if 
the nails were to fix the quarters, where the joint thinness, moisture, 
and elasticity of the horn afford the best evidence nature meant should 
reside expansion and contraction. 

When the contents of the foot are compressed by the superimposed 
weight of the animal, or when the hoof is resting upon the ground, tlie 
quarters yield to the downward pressure, and they accordingly expand. 
When the burden is removed by the hoof being raised, the quarters 
again fly back to their original situations. The sides, therefore, being 
in constant motion, are entirely unsuited for the purposes to which the 
smith compels them. No wonder the clinches are loosened, or the shoes 
come off, when the nails are driven into parts hardly ever at rest ; this 
action is important to the circulation, for the contraction still allows the 
arterial blood free ingress, while the expansion permits the full return 
of the venous current. 

Therefore, because the thickness of horn denies the possibility of 
movement ; because the amount of inorganic secretion likewise pre- 
sents a reasonable hope of not injuring other and more delicate struc- 
tures ; and because the toe affords those numerous properties which, 
for the retention of the fastenings are rendered imperative, the nails, 
in opposition to the usage of ages and the experience of thousands, are 
fixed within the anterior of the hoof — seven or five being there employed 
to fix the shoe. 

There is another quality appertaining to the proposed shoe which , 
may be briefly touched upon. The thing is equally applicable to the 
field or to the road. For hunting purposes, it is superior to any modern 
shoe. It possesses no unnecessary surface, being absolutely without 
web, and is lighter for the absence of so useless a provision. It is also 
fixed more firmly upon the foot, being the better able to withstand the 
drag, always present, when riding in winter over stiff clays. Moreover, 
it does not fetter the quarters of the hoof or necessitate vast removal 
of the sole ; consequently it leaves the pliable horn to aid the spring, 
thereby allowing the horse the full exercise of its natural power. 

This reference to one kind of sport, naturally calls to mind another 
form of amusement in which the horse is a principal performer. Thor- 
ough-breds, before they start for the race, are shod in very light, but in 
equally thin shoes, of which the appended example may convey some 
idea. Now, thinness and lightness, where metal is concerned, are attain- 
able only by the sacrifice of strength. The sad accidents which have 
occurred through using the present racing plates, and by these being 
broken, bent, or twisted, during the violence of the contention, ought to 
provoke their abolition. 



SHOEING. 



115 



Sueli accidents are, however, fortunately more rare than the substance 
of the shoe might lead most readers to suppose. Nevertheless, a greater 
injury is consummated by aflfixing a fetter, which prevents the elasticity 
of the quarters aiding the exertions of the animal, while, from its dimen- 
sion, it can afford but little protection to the foot. How much the speed 
of the racer must be dependent upon that elasticity with which the quar- 
ters are endowed, may be judged of by any person who has ever visited 
a race-course and beheld the horses trot previous to the start. Who can 
have failed to notice the play of fetlock by which "the blood action" is 
characterized ? Now, nature never forms one part an exception to the 





AN OLD AND A MODERN RACING PLATE. 



whole. She delights in harmony ; consequently the spring which resides 
in the fetlock is positive evidence of the elasticity which belongs to the 
unfettered foot. But the bounding property, which the frog, sole, and 
quarters would naturally provide, the trainer counteracts, in order to im- 
pose a dangerous article, which is not a horse shoe, nor even a respectable 
substitute for one. 

It is so formed, however, as to exercise the 
worst functions of the regular shoe. It is a 
fetter upon the foot, and firmly impales the 
quarters, thereby seriously crippling the animal 
and impeding the natural power. If any part 
of a thorough-bred's foot required metallic pro- 
tection, it could only be the toe ; for this part 
alone is employed during the horse's quickest 
pace. The other portions of the hoof touch 
the ground, when aiding the spring; but these 
are never used with that amount of energy 
which necessitates anything approaching arti- 
ficial defense. Now, the plate and its nails 
check expansion ; these also oppose that force of rebound residing in the 
6oof and in its various structures. The best horse must feel the bondage 




A TIP OR HALF SHOE NAILED ONLY 
TO THE TOE, AND LEAVING BOTH 
THE QUARTERS FREE. 



116 SHOEING. 

most The spring or rebound is to it of most value. But that function 
is destroyed. Many a fine animal has, doubtless, been condemned for 
having "no go in him," which, could it have exerted all its natural 
power, would have been declared winner of every race for which it waa 
ever entered. 

The late William Percivall, the respected author of Hippo-pathology, 
many years ago informed the author that he had long ridden a young 
horse about town with no greater protection to its forefeet than tips 
could afford. He showed the hoofs of the animal to the writer, and 
more open or better examples of the healthy horse's feet need not be de- 
sired. Why could not tips be employed by racers, instead of the present 
ridiculous pretense at a shoe ? If any greater protection is imperative, 
or is thought to be needed, the shoe proposed by the author would give 
all security, while it left the pedal structures free to exercise their import- 
ant uses. There can be no doubt as to the safety of tips ; in which, if 
Mr. Percivall could for years take his quadruped through the streets of 
London, another animal might, surely, scamper over the well-kept turf 
of a race-course, where the heels merely touch the earth during the 
intervals of leaps, and then only for an instant. 

Were tips more generally employed, this form of shoe would be more 
highly valued. They are, however, now thought only to be of service 
when the animal is, "for a season," thrown up; but there can he no 
reason why the racer — trained, exercised, and worked always on choice 

turf — should ever be crippled by any more 
regular form of shoe. Most horsemen, how- 
ever, like the warriors of old, place their great 
dependence on the accumulation of iron. The 
nearest approach they ever make toward a tip, 
and then only when guarded by a veterinary 
surgeon's advice, is a three-quarter shoe. The 
tip is a protection to be worn only during the 
run at grass, and to be discarded so soon as 
the stable is entered. Is not the racer always 
at ffrass, since the rail or the van generally 

A THREE-QUARTER SHOE, WHICH &*""'^) •~:'^^ v O J 

ONLY LEAVES ONE-QUAETER UN- carrlcs It ovcr thc roads ? How often do the 

FETTERED. 

feet of the thorough-bred fail, though there 
must be further cause than the work they have undergone ? But no one 
is silly enough to suspect the shoeing can be at fault ! 

The three-quarter shoe is but an enlarged kind of tip. Most horsemen 
appreciate the unilateral nailing, which was revived some years ago by 
that excellent veterinary surgeon, Mr. Turner, of Regent Street. They 
can understand the advantages of leaving one-quarter without nails so 




SHOEING. 



117 



long as the unfettered pai*t be covered by a regular shoe. Tliey com- 
prehend that by omitting the nails on one side of the hoof, that side is 
left free to exercise its natural property of expansion. Therefore they 
perceive that the unilateral mode of shoeing is a partial remedy for 
contraction. 

Though always worked on grass, and ever lightly shod, no animal is 
so troubled with mule hoofs as is the racer ; yet no quadruped is so en- 
tirely under the inspection of man. The mode of shoeing must be at 
fault. That cannot be right the results from which are purely evil. 
The consequences experienced from the custom of fettering that portion 
of the foot on which the pleasure of motion and the extent of the re- 
bound both depend, argue strongly in favor of tips, not only as training, 
but more especially as running shoes. Men with fleshy feet, having no 
protection from leather, fearlessly tread the race-course ; yet the owners 
of blood stock seem afraid of trusting their animals to perform an act 
not equally bold — although nature sends the horse into the world with 
ready-made and stout-made shoes. There can be no just reason why 
the steed which never quits the turf need be hampered even with a 
unilateral shoe, were the horn only carefully, and not ruthlessly, cut 
away. 




A SEATED AND A UNILATERAL SHOE. 

A seated shoe implies a regular shoe, which has only so much upper 
surface left as will admit of the crust resting upon it. The remainder 
of the web slants away, till the posterior or inner margin becomes a 
comparatively fine edge. Such a make of shoe may lessen the weight, 
but it can afford no protection ; while it offers a snug lodging for stones 
or grit, and presents an extended surface for the huntsman's dreaded 
heavy clay to act upon. Yet, for the sake of its prettiness, the seated 
shoe is all but universally adopted. No other form is so largely patron- 
ized by what should be the informed class of society. 



118 



SHOEING. 




MR. BRACr CLARK'S JOINTED SHOK. 



Mr Bracy Clark once brought forward a jointed shoe, which was 
intended to admit of expansion; and was offered to the public as a 
radical cure for all the evils to which the foot of the horse was liable. 

The joint was placed at the toe, the shoe 
being forged in two halves, which were 
united by means of a rivet. The thing 
was wrong in principle. The toe, which 
nature intended should be fixed, was obliged 
to move, before the heels could expand; 
then, parts could not yield in different 
degrees, but all must move at once, accord- 
ing to the motion of the iron. It was soon 
discovered to be. terribly injurious, when 
brought into use. The battering speedily 
fixed the central rivet, and afterward wore 
away the joint, leaving the two halves disunited. A thing which turns 
out defective, both in principle and in practice, merits that neglect into 
which the jointed shoe has now fallen. 

Another mechanical ameliorator was termed the screw shoe. This 
had two rivets — one on either side of the toe, 
operating on two movable quarter pieces. The 
sides, therefore, were capable of all motion, and, 
being nailed to the quarters, were, by turning 
the screw, to be forced outward. The screw 
was situated under the frog, and was retained 
in its position by a stout bar of iron connected 
with the toe piece. Man, however, cannot treat 
any portion of an organic frame as it were an 
inorganic substance. He may tear flesh, but he 
cannot stretch or strain living tissues according to his pleasure. More- 
over, all outward secretions are regulated by the parts which they cover 
and inclose. Thus, supposing a lad bom with a diminutive head, the 
cranium cannot be enlarged by any degree of force ; but educate the 
boy, exercise the intellect of the youth, and, with the greater develop- 
ment of the brain, the bones of the head will sensibly expand. So it 
must be with the heels of the horse's feet. These parts may become 
rigid and wired in by the fixing power exercised by the nails of the 
shoe. But remove the nails, allow the hoof that motion which is need- 
ful to its health, and its internal structures may recover their lost func- 
tions ; a gradual restoration to the normal shape may be the consequence 
of strength regained by the internal organs. 

The veterinary mind was, however, slow to recognize so plain a rule. 




A SCREW SnOE. 



SHOEING. 119 

Like all nature's laws, the truth necessitated not that show of mastery 
in which the ignorant especially delight. The famous screw shoe is 
everywhere admitted to have been a decided failure; nevertheless, the 
pride of poor humanity could not relinquish the hope of compelling life, 
through the power, to direct mechanical force. Screws and rivets had 
proved alike hurtful, but there still remained other artifices, which were 
as yet untried. The frog-pressure shoe was one of these, which ultimately 
lamed many horses, without having benefited a single one. The wedge- 
heeled shoe is, however, occasionally encountered, even at the present 
day. It consists of a shoe, imperfectly seated upon its upper surface, 
and which has the heels much thicker or higher than the toe. The iron, 
at the inside heel, is beaten into an angular form, the apex of the angle 
looking toward the foot. The intention is, that the heel, resting upon 
a slanting surface, should slide downward and outward, thus being 
forced gradually to expand. The shoe may be said, up to a particular 
point, to answer the inventor's expectations. The hoof certainly does 
slide downward and outward ; only, when this is accomplished, the wall 
has been torn from its attachments, while the apex of the wedge, coming 
into contact with the soft sole, has actually forced its way through the 
horn covering the last-named part, thereby lamentably laming the poor 
horse. Could the teaching of principle have been interpreted, so sad a 
result might have been understood without positively experimenting 
with breathing life. 




A WEDQB-HEELEI) SHOE. 



But pride has no brains, and a very limited degree of feeling. A 
modification of the above shoe is still to be met in the London shops. 
The nail holes are principally at the toe, one only being inserted at the 
most forward part of each quarter. The author's proposed plan of fas- 
tening the shoe is, therefore, no positive novelty ; since the smith, before 




A THIN-HEELED 8H0E. 



120 SHOEING. 

now, has impaled the toe of the foot. A return to perfect freedom, how- 
ever, could alone cure the evils caused by un- 
natural restraint. The wedge heel pointed the 
toe toward the earth ; injured the bars and the 
sole ; often causing large portions of the coffin- 
bone to exfoliate. Seeing the plan did* not 
answer, the next inventor lowered the heels and 
raised the forward part, this thing being named 
a "thin-heeled shoe." However, one extreme 
could not heal the wounds provoked by another ; 
and the position of the hoof, which the pavement of the stalls enforces 
while the horse is in the stable, the thin-heeled shoe perpetuated when- 
ever the animal was taken abroad. Ceaseless discomfort can advantage 
no form of existence. 

The last shoe, moreover, besides being thin at the heels, also dis- 
played a mild desire to retain the feature of the wedge. This was done 
without the inventor suspecting that, when he fixed the quarters of the 
hoof at a high altitude, and invited the heels to slide down an inclined 
plane, he was only laying a trap for loosening the clinches ; since, the 
quarters and the heels being continuous, one cannot move without the 
other being displaced. 

All men having, theoretically, insisted on the necessity of permitted 
freedom of motion to the quarters, in order to secure the health of the 
foot, the next novelty was a proposition to confine those parts, by estab- 
lishing a large clip at either side of the shoe. 
The clips were forged ; but the thin heels were 
also retained. The highest portion being at 
the toe, of course the foot, obeying the laws of 
gravity, had an inclination to drag toward the 
lower level — thus the thin heels had a tendency 
to draw the hoof away from the clips, one part 
counteracting the other. Then, the clip shoe 
has a piece of steel inserted at the toe ; but 
could an everlasting horse shoe be produced, it would bring but small 
gain to the proprietor ; since the natural growth of the horn necessitates 
that the metal should be removed, that new nails should be inserted, and 
that the foot should be pared out every third week. However, the steel 
toe and the thin heels were incompatible with each other ; since the thin 
heels took the bearing from that part which the steel presupposes to be 
alone liable to attrition. 

It would, however, be vain to review all the shoes which have come 
before the public. A certain rim of iron has been pinched up, flatt«ned 




A CLIP SHOE. 



SHOEING. 121 

out, squeezed in, twisted about, has been lengthened and has beer 
shortened, subjected to every species of treatment but the right; and 
each trivial alteration has been patented to the public as a final and a 
wonderful improvement. After all the many changes, at the present 
time a modification of the shoe originally introduced by Clark, of Edin- 
burgh, is in general use, or, if such an assertion requires any qualifica- 
tion, the hospital shoes, or shoes suited for particular forms of disease, 
are the principal exceptions. 

The generality of grooms will undertake the relief of those injuries 
occasioned during motion, or which are produced by one leg being hit 
by the opposite foot. 

Of cutting there are two descriptions. One is spoken of as "brush- 
ing," and this kind occurs near to the pastern joint. The other is called 
"speedy-cut," and it takes place immediately below the knee. Both 
are equally annoying; but the last is the most dangerous. "Speedy- 
cut" will destroy the rider's security in his horse ; for a blow on the seat 
of injury may bring the animal suddenly to earth. Beth affections are 
likely to occasion exostosis ; for the repeated injury may so irritate the 
bone as shall cause it to enlarge or tumefy. Thus, the renewal of the 
accident produces a result which must increase the probability of its 
recurrence. 

Almost all weakly, long-legged, and narrow-chested horses cut. 
Creatures with cow hocks are said to be exposed to this calamity. 
Many young horses strike in going; but they lose the habit as age 
matui'es the strength. Nearly all animals, when exhausted, will 
"brush," and often very severely. Lately, a ring of India-rubber 
has been employed as a protection against this annoyance; but it is 
a mere fantasy, and one not at all calculated to realize any practical 
expectation. Confirmed disappointment engenders a feeling allied to 
desperation; but when nostrums fail, advice should then be sought 
from more lofty counselors. 

The speedy-cut has already been alluded to in the Illustrated Horse 
Doctor ; but in that volume no mention was made of what is ordinarily 
implied by "brushing," which is confined principally to the hind extrem- 
ities. It is astonishing how great may be the annoyance which a mat- 
ter apparently so trivial will occasion ; and it is a legitimate source of 
surprise how deep the wound can be, or how lasting the blemish, pro- 
duced by slight blows, frequently becomes.. The groom may exhaust 
his stock of remedies, and the master may expend some money and 
much patience, watching for a cure which is never effected. 

Let the defeated proprietor then apply to some practical veterinary 
surgeon, who will inform him of the real cause of the injury which has 



122 



SHOEING. 



alread/ been intimated. Some horses will only cut during the latter 
portion of a long journey, or when thoroughly exhausted. Other 
quadrupeds are afflicted with a chronic description of weakness, and 
such animals may cut with the first step. These creatures require less 
work or entire rest, with a course of tonics, both in food and medicine. 
However, make and shape certainly have some control over this affec- 
tion. The horse which exhibits a 
wide chest, and stands with the feet 
not too close together, very rarely 
speedy-cuts. The animal which pos- 
sesses well-made haunches with prom- 
inent hips and swelling thighs, that 
appear full, round, and fleshy, espe- 
cially when such a creature places 
the fetlocks under the hocks, must be 
driven very far and pushed very hard 
before the pace shall become injuri- 
ous. 

Several repeated . remedies have 
been sold for the relief of this de- 
fect. Saddlers keep in stock pieces 
of leather, or small flaps with straps 
appended, which last, being buckled 
round the leg, hang pendulous, cover- 
ing the wound. Such applications, however, rarely are satisfactory. 
The horse, during the motion of the feet, repeatedly kicks the leather. 




THE KIND OF HORSE NOT UKELT TO CUT. 




REMEDIES FOR CUTTINQ. 



and the frequent blows generally remove it from its original situation ; 
thus, long before the journey has ended, the remedy hangs over some 
sound part of the leg, and the sore is bleeding from renewed injury. 



SHOEING. 



123 



A better plan is to procure a piece of cloth which matches the co^or 
of the animal, and to fold this round the leg, ultimately tying it at the 
top and the bottom. Such a contrivance cannot be displaced, and is less 
likely to attract attention than the leathern flap recently alluded to. 
However, it must be tightly wrapped round the shin or it will bag and 
appear unsightly, as it is represented in the previous illustration. Still, 
such a resort affords but a partial protection, cloth being unable to stay 
the entire consequences of a blow ; nor can it be regarded as exercising 
a curative influence. 

That which appears better is a leathern boot, of the color of the skin, 
or made of prepared horse skin, 
having the hair on, and laced upon 
the member. Over the seat of in- 
jury a concave piece of stout leather 
is let into the covering, and the hol- 
low thus formed, which acts as a 
protection, can also receive a por- 
tion of lint saturated in the lotion, 
prepared by adding one grain of 
chloride of zinc to an ounce of water. 
Thus, while the sore is spared a re- ^ 
newal of the cause, curative treat- ^ 
ment is not stayed. -^ 

The chloride of zinc lotion is the 
only remedy which an ordinary case 
of cutting would require ; but aggravated instances of this annoyance 
will also be benefited by rest and a course of restoratives to amend the 
constitutional debility. Other matters consist in a warm lodging, an 
ample bed, prepared food, walking exercise, a loose box, and, above all 
things, no work. Should the animal be changing its coat, which is gen- 
erally a period of weakness, throw it up till the operation is completed ; 
give extra nourishment and one ounce of liquor arsenicalis, each day, to 
assist nature. Never turn out to grass ; for numerous are the examples 
of flagging quadrupeds which, after the supposed invigoration of a 
month's "run," have been taken up in a condition which disabled them 
for labor ever afterward. 

Such an animal should enjoy the very best of softened food — beans in 
excess — and should be retained at the homestead. It should be hand- 
led, not ridden, to exercise, of which it can hardly have too much, pro- 
vided the motion does not excite perspiration or cause evident fatigue, 
neither of which states is desirable. Should the horse sweat in the 
stable, remove all clothing, open the door, and pour over the body several 




A LEATHERN BOOT. 



124 



SHOEING. 



pails of the coldest water — having a helper ready .to dry the saturated 
coat with all speed; then, putting on a bridle, send the animal out for 
one hour's brisk walking exercise. Order the man who holds the rein to 



illl'iiSl liif liiile 




THE RIGHT AND THE WRONO WAT OF 'WALKING A GENTLEMAN'S HORSE. 



walk at the rate of four miles an hour. An active quadruped can travel 
much faster, so there can be no excuse, beyond the indulgence of his 
individual laziness, for the servant creeping along, while the animal 
hangs the head as though it had some intention of laying down. 

Much injury is done every year by the indolent manner in which idle 
lads "walk horses." The urchins who infest the streets of London dis- 
play nimbleness while they run by the side of an equestrian, shouting out 
occasionally, " Hold your honor's horse ?" No sooner, however, have 
they received orders to walk the quadruped about, than all their activity 
departs ; they creep along at a pace which only just renders it impossi- 
ble to charge them with standing positively stationary. The horse may 
be warm, and the master may desire to prevent the body from chilling 
while he is detained by business. A ready affirmative testifies that the 
command to move briskly has been comprehended ; but who ever beheld 
one 'of these youthful idlers, when in possession of a job, stirring even 
at the pace of a lady's ordinary walk ? 

However, to return to the subject which at present is more especially 
under the reader's consideration. Cutting is often combined with click- 
ing or forging, for both words signify the same act, implying the noise 



SHOEING. 



125 




SHOE, DESIGNED WITH THE INTEN- 
TION OP ERADICATING CUTTING, 
AND OP RENDERING CUCKING AN 
IMPOSSIBILITT. 



made by striking the toe or quarter of the hind shoe against the metal 
nailed to the forefoot. This sound is not generally considered pleasant 
by those who hear it; because, besides being of a monotonous character, 
it announces something to be the matter — 
either that the horse is not exactly in proper 
working condition, or that the journey has 
been a trifle too long for the strength of the 
animal, while the repeated blows endanger 
the retention of a fore shoe. 

The smith generally is consulted to cure 
this defect. He, however, who regards the 
cause, will perceive that the eradication of 
the evil more concerns the stable than the 
forge. The man of the anvil, nevertheless, 
will put on a novel kind of shoe which, with 
all the confidence of ignorance, he shall assert 
must stay the annoyance. The remedy totally 
fails, and the horse is led to another forge. The new blacksmith picks 
up the foot, and, of course, is cunning enough to profit by what he there 
perceives. A different shoe is tried and pronounced an absolute remedy. 
Still, this disappoints ; the quadruped seeks some other shoemaker. Th6 
next bit of iron leads to no new result. The clicking and the cutting 
only get worse during these numerous trials ; till the proprietor becomes 
alarmed, and the horse is thrown up to undergo regular curative treat- 
ment. 

The rest thus obtained often effects that which no change of shoe 
could accomphsh. The smiths, however, are only to be blamed for pre- 
tending to perform impossibilities. The best veterinary surgeons in the 
kingdom having no better appliances, could have labored to no better 
result; the fact being that the kind of shoe which shall answer in all 
such cases, does not and cannot exist. That article has the best chance 
which is adopted when the owner deems it necessary to hghten the work 
of his exhausted servant. Thus, it is a matter of uncertainty which shoe 
will succeed. The first smith may, or perhaps the last will, prove the 
very clever tradesman in his employers' estimation. 

The next engraving is a type of the shoe commonly employed for the 
alleviation of this unpleasantness. The number of altered shapes and 
adapted peculiarities is infinite ; but one pervading model is readily de- 
tected through all such modifications. There are, however, several shoes 
claimed as inventions by different smiths, and each is warranted to cure 
the most aggravated case of cutting or of clicking on the first applica- 
tion. The author has known many of these to fail ; while the ordinary 




126 SHOEING. 

shoe often answers admirably, so the horse be "up." to his work, and not 

pushed too far or too hard. 

The fact being, that flesh and blood, if overtasked, will flag, and no 

mechanical contrivance can anticipate the natural consequences of such 
exhaustion. Clicking and cutting are not local 
ailments ; therefore, though they may be miti- 
gated, they cannot be eradicated by any local 
application. They doubtless are both produced 
by the irregular movement of the feet ; but the 
motion of the extremities is regulated by the 
condition of the body. " If the reader is ever on 
a journey, and the horse he is guiding chances 
to click, the bearing-rein should be let down — 
if the driver sit behind harness disgraced by 
8HOE.MEANT^To^PREvzNi ^^^^ ^^ iustrumeut of folly. Should that not 

succeed, accept the warning: pull up at the 
next tavern, and have the quadruped taken from the shafts, rubbed down 
and rested. 

After a couple of hours spent by the traveler in the cofi"ee-room, the 
journey may be resumed, though, of course, a longer stay will rather 
benefit than injure the steed; yet, in either case, the subsequent pace 
should be a little slackened; and if, on reaching home, the work is 
slightly lightened, the noise may never after startle the "ear of pro- 
priety. " 

These remedies should always anticipate the setting in of winter; be- 
cause wet roads necessitate heavier shoes, by which a severer blow can 
be inflicted. Nevertheless, the majority of horse owners are extremely 
careless about the necessities of the seasons. The winters, in this 
climate, are more generally characterized by their severity than remarka- 
ble for their mildness ; yet the frost appears always to take horse pro- 
prietors by surprise. Gentlemen, to be sure, during this season allow 
their dumb servants to remain within the stable ; but quadrupeds which 
have to work for their own and their masters' sustenance, creatures which 
have to labor long and to labor hard, slaves which toil before the sun has 
risen and never cease till darkness has long set in, are never prepared for 
the season which in England seems a certainty. 

A horse shoe is, however, not a perishable commodity, nor does its 
store necessitate any sacrifice. Supposing it were forged in the summer, 
and because of death or change, it should not suit in the winter, the 
smith, at such a period, would gladly accept its return. Many forges are 
comparatively idle during the warmer months, and any a'mount of winter 
shoes would be most thankfully manufactured. Then no one will employ 



SHOEING. 



12t 



the men ; but scarcely does a severe frost or the snow set in, than people 
throng into the forge, all clamorous to have their horses' shoes suited to 
the weather. They crowd the building; they even stop the roadway. 
The inside is full of men and horses — horses and men cluster deep about 
the entrance. The smiths have to work fast, and often hang over the 
fires for three nights and three days, without looking on a bed. Beer is 
abundant; but nature oannot labor continuously on any amount of 
stimulant, and the men ultimately sink, exhausted, to sleep soundly on a 
heap of old rusty horse shoes, while many voices are shouting and many 
anvils are ringing around them. 




THE blacksmith's FORGE AT THE COMMENCEMENT OP A HARD ^ROST. 



Such scenes might be prevented and the work much better done, 
would owners lay in a stock of shoes, properly frosted, against the 
coming winter. The labor executed during the leisure portion 0/ the 
year would not be hastily performed by overtaxed workmen ; the only 
extra charge such a provision would necessitate is the interest on the 
shght cost of the articles supplied : though very often even such an 
increase of expense would be avoided, since it is by no means uncom- 
mon for the smith's account to remain longer than six months before 
it is liquidated ; while the confusion, loss of time, and those accidents 
which often occur, would be banished. 

Frosting or roughing, as it is termed, is generally performed in a 




128 SHOEING. 

coarse and careless manner, because of that excessive press of business 
amid which it is executed. In the first place, the shoe is hurriedly torn 
from the hoof, without the nails being properly unclinched, or any trouble 
being taken about the process. Should the proprietor expostulate, he 
only elicits an uncivil reply ; for the journey- 
man is vexed with boisterous solicitations from 
a crowd of impatient customers, and irritable 
from inordinate fatigue. The shoe is then 
heated ; after which . the iree extremities are 
turned downward with tlie hammer, and the 
ends are hastily beaten into a rude, sharp edge. ' 
In some particular cases, the toe is likewise 
favored by having a clip forged ; but occasion- 
THE SHOE OF THE HORSE AS allv tlic toc Is tuHicd dowuward, forming a 

FREQUENTLY FROSTED. , . , , „ ,, . ml • i . i 

third and a front calkm. The article is thus 
rendered too short for the foot, and, with all shape destroyed, is nailed 
on to the hoof from which it was recently removed ; and the animal is 
led from the forge wearing shoes supposed to be properly "frosted." 

The rudeness of the above process has long been appreciated by the 
more reflective portion of the public. To rectify it, various innovations 
have been proposed. The meditated improvements, however, have all 
sank into disuse, because of the attendant expense or of the necessitated 
exertion. A common man thinks it no trouble to remain through the 
night in the blacksmith's forge, waiting for his turn, at an expensive, a 
ruinous, and an inefiScient operation, — because other people do the same. 
But when his turn arrives, perhaps a. new set of shoes is spoiled; for the 
ordinary "roughing" is generally of no service after the third day, the 
, sharp calkins being by that time ground blunt. 

The huge weight of the animal grinds the edges off the iron, espe- 
cially upon London stones, so that in three days they are no better than 
ordinary calkins, and cease to enable the quadruped to progress on ice. 
The constant removal and renewal of the shoe — the horn each time 
having to be repierced by fresh nails — seriously injures the hoof, so that 
frequently animals are forced to remain idle because there remains no 
more horn on which to fix a fastening. Those horses which escape such 
a fate, nevertheless carry the scars which commemorate the period of 
frost for months afterward ; for there is no horseman, who has the most 
trivial experience in such matters, but will bitterly complain of the 
damage done to the quadruped's feet, when it is forced to work through 
the winter season. 

Some person, many years ago, proposed to use nails with large steel 
sharp-pointed heads, during the prevalence of frost. This plan was 



SHOEING. 



129 



tried, and signally failed. The constant renewal of the nails was found 
ruinous to the hoof; for the strongest of the projecting heads was unable 
to resist the grindmg action of a horse's foot longer than twenty-four 
hours. Then, many of the heads broke off while being driven, and not 
a few were fixed in a damaged condition, owing to the blows received 
from the heavy hammer of the smith. 





A SHOE, INTENDED TO ENABLE A. HORSE TO WORK 
IN FEOST, WHICH IS FIXED ON TO THE FOOT 
WITH BHARP HEADED AND PROJECTIKQ NAILS. 



A SHOE, -WITH POINTS, 'WHTCH SCREW ON AND 
OFF, DESIGNED TO FIT A HORSE FOE WORK 
DCRINQ FROSTY WEATHER. 



Mr. White, however, proposed a plan concerning the utility of which 
Mr. Lupton, a living and a most intelligent writer, bears favorable evi- 
dence. Large holes, containing the thread of a female screw, are made 
through the heels of the winter shoes, and several steel points, manufac- 
tured with a male screw, adapted to the dimensions of the holes just 
mentioned. Whenever frost coats the roads with ice, all that is requisite 
a boy might perform. The hole in the shoe has to be cleared out, and 
afterward, with an instrument known as "a spanner," one of the points, 
before alluded to, is screwed into the opening. When these points are 
worn down, they are easily renewed ; thus the terrors of the frost are 
overcome without exposing the horse for hours to the chilly air, or 
yourself submitting to the incivilities of the forge. 

On the above subject, the following is extracted from the excellent 
weekly newspaper The Field, and is here quoted because of the informa- 
tion it affords, and because of the lucid manner in which it explains the 
measures necessary to be pursued. 

"About this time last season we inserted in The Field an account of 
the plan of frosting horse shoes, recommended more than fifty years ago 
by Mr. White, veterinary surgeon, of Exeter. Since then, nearly one 
thousand sets of the sharp cogs used for this purpose have been sold by 

9 



130 



SHOEING. 



the engineer to whom we intrusted the task of making them ; and the 
plan appears to give unqualified satisfaction. At the suggestion of 
several correspondents who have not seen our former article, we are 
induced to repeat the notice, with the addition of an engraving repre- 
senting the tools necessary; these being a drill of the required size, 
which every smith possesses, and with which a hole is drilled in the 
heel of each shoe, and, if needed, in the toe also. These holes are then 
converted into female screws by means of two taps, (figs. 1 and 2,) one 



FIG. 4 



FIG. I 




being slightly smaller than the other, so as to make a perfect female 
screw by using first the smaller one and then the larger. Besides these, 
a spanner (fig. 3) is required to fix on the cog firmly; and the cogs 
themselves (fig. 4) should be made by a competent smith. These may 
all be obtained of S. Morris, 50 Rathbone Place, Oxford Street, London, 
the price of the tools being six shillings, and of the cogs, three shillings 
per dozen. With this outlay, any shoeing smith can fit a set of shoes 
by drilling the heels, (and the toes, if the roads are very slippery, but 
for ordinary work the cogs in the heels are quite sufiicient,) tapping 
them with the taps furnished to him, after which they are nailed on; 
and the horse so shod can in five minutes be roughed by his groom, by 
screwing a cog in each hole, with the aid of the spanner. It often hap- 
pens that the roads become frozen after a horse leaves home ; but if the 
groom has the spanner and cogs in his pocket, he is independent of the 
smith, and neither the delay caused by 'roughing,' nor the danger from 
its omission, is incurred. A specimen shoe, properly fitted, may be seen 
at the office of The Field.^'— December 20, 1861. 

The plan is excellent, but it requires a little forethought and a slight 
expenditure of ready cash. The tools for the tapping, or making the 
female screw holes, and for the points, Mr. Lupton obtains from Bir- 



SHOEING. 



131 



minghani ; the former at a cost of five shillings — the last for one penny 
or three half pence each. Tapping a set of shoes is by the smith charged 
fourpence ; and for so small an outlay the gentleman just named escapes 
the unpleasantness and the annoyance which are inseparable from the 
old method of "roughing" horses during frosty weather. 





A FOOT PBOPERLT SHOD, AND A FOOT WHICH HAS BEEN CRUELLT RASPED, TO MAKE THE HOOP SUIT A 
SHOE THAT WAS TOO SMALL FOR IT. 



The author believes he has now touched upon all the necessary heads 
connected with the subject he is at present considering ; still this article 
cannot be closed without apprising the reader of a practice not unusual 
in some forges, but never indulged in by the respectable tradesman. 
This is, paring and rasping the horse's foot till it be small enough to fit 
the shoe, rather than kindle a fire and forge a new set which shall suit 
the feet of the animal. It may to some readers seem like a jest, to write 
seriously about the horse's shoes being too tight; but it is, indeed, no 
joke to the quadruped which has to move in such articles. The walk is 
strange, as though the poor creature were trying to progress, but could 
obtain no bearing for its tread. The legs are all abroad, and the hoofs 
no sooner touch the ground than they are snatched up again. The head 
is carried high, and the countenance denotes suffering. It is months 
before the horn is restored to its normal condition. The animal must, 
during this period, remain idle in the stable ; and, that the reader may 
be enabled to recognize the foot, under such circumstances, the last illus- 
tration was introduced. 

It is trusted that whoever may possess an animal which is thus 
treated, will, in the first instance, secure the evidence as to fact from 
three or four of the principal veterinary surgeons ; then enforce, with its 
utmost rigor, the law against the individual who has knowingly been 
guilty of this most heartless attempt at a positive fraud. 

The horse is so entirely given into the hands of man, and is so sub- 



132 SHOEING. 

missive to liis treatment, that the active supervision of its master is 
doubly necessary for its protection, "While the present mode of nailing 
is continued, every proprietor willfully exposes his quadruped to danger 
who sends the creature to be shod. Any journeyman may, therefore, 
be pardoned if, occasionally, the foot be pricked ; but the pains and the 
labor required to adjust a hoof to a shoe of. small dimensions are abso- 
lute proof of evil design, and are irrefutable testimony which should 
forbid the remotest thought of leniency toward the offender. 



•^ 



CHAPTER lY. 

THE TEETH — THEIR NATURAL GROWTH, AND THE ABUSES TO WHICH 
THEY ARE LIABLE. 

" No legs, no horse," is, with a particular class, a very familiar phrase. 
This assertion, becoming a maxim, has apparently directed attention in 
a special manner to the lower extremities. All purchasers are particular 
about the legs and feet of an animal ; but the teeth are merely glanced 
at, to ascertain the age. Such a custom is evidently wrong ; since it 
would be as true of the organs of mastication as it is concerning those 
of locomotion should the horsemen also say, "No teeth, no horse." For 
the creature that is valuable only on account of its labor, cannot be equal 
to its toil if it do not consume a fitting quantity of sustenance. Though 
the majority combine, as it were, to pass the teeth over without notice 
when iuspecting the horse, nevertheless many owners seem to appreciate 
the value of these organs to the welfare of the quadruped, it being not 
uncommon to hear horse proprietors complain, "the beast cannot eat 
sufficient for the demand which is daily made upon its capabilities." 

The animal was sent on this earth provided with every apparatus 
necessary to crop, to comminute, and to digest the green verdure of the 
earth. Man has seized on and domesticated the body, which is exqui- 
sitely adapted only for special purposes. He works it while in its 
infancy, or forces it to labor until the sight is lost and the limbs are 
crippled. To fit the creature for his uses, he changes the character of 
its food. Artificially-prepared oats and hay, with various condiments, 
are used to stimulate the spirit. No one inquires whether such a diet is 
the fitting support of the animal. But when the energy lags, beans, 
beer, etc. are resorted to as restoratives for exhaustion. The quadruped, 
thus treated, men have agreed shall be aged by the eighth year ; but the 
author has seen very old horses which had not attained the fifth birth- 
day. Opinion seems to be based upon the circumstance that, by the 
time recognized as "aged" in the equine species, the indications of the 
teeth do no more than tempt a guess. The cessation of dental growth, 
however, does not announce maturity to be consummated; but man 
appeals to the teeth as corroborative of his judgment, without asking 

(133) 



134 TEETH. 

himself whether those parts have been doomed to unnatural wear, and 
therefore may not have assumed an unnatural aspect. 

The author has not lately seen a specimen of bishoped teeth. In 
Ireland, such sights obtrude themselves at every horse fair. The major- 
ity of horses are, in that country, sold cheap, most of the purchasers 
being clothed in rags. It is a sad feature in the practices of imposition, 
that it is always violently rampant where there is the least certainty of 
reward. 

To fully explain in what bishoping consists, it is necessary to inform 
the reader that on the nipping or cutting surfaces of the young horse's 
front teeth there mostly are dark indentations or deep hollows. Below 
is presented an enlarged engraving of this portion of a tooth, taken from 
the head of that which was a three-year old colt. The dark spot in the 
middle of the diagram represents the situation of the hollow into which 
the food naturally falls, rendering the interior of the cavity of a deep 
color approaching to blackness. Bishoping supposes the cavity always 
to be present; invariably to be of one form, and in every instance to 
sink to the like depth, which suppositions are contrary to fact; but even 
were such rules observed by nature, there are still means by which the 
cheat may be detected. Immediately around the dark-colored space is 
developed a fine line of enamel, which is always white. The rogues 
can counterfeit the black mark, but they cannot imitate the crystalline 
white bordering which surrounds the opening. The presence or absence 
of this is of more importance, therefore, than the existence of" a black 
indentation. Again, those who tamper with the teeth cannot change 
the shape of the surface on which they work. The young tooth is wide 
from side to side, and narrow from the front to the backward margin. 
He who ventures where bishoped horses are to be found, should famihar- 
ize his eye with the shape of the youthful organ. 





THREE TEARS OLD. TWELTE TEARS OLD. 

An enlarged Tiew of the difference in form and in aspect which separates the table of a twelve-year 
old bishoped nipper from the same part in the three year old colt. 

In contrast with the natural tooth, the reader is also presented with 
an exaggerated sketch taken from an organ which had been tampered 
with, and which was extracted from the head of an animal that had at 



TEETH. 



135 



least attained its twelfth year. The natural size has been considerably 
enlarged, as the author thereby hoped to render the contrast the more 
obvious. This last member, it will be remarked, has parted with its 
juvenile width, or is now characterized by depth and angularity. The 
central cavity, it will also be observed, bears small resemblance to the 
natural depression which it is meant to imitate. The color, moreover, 
is quite black, and of an even tint throughout, while the presence of the 
girding line of enamel cannot be detected. 

The difference, however, is more striking, when two full rows of teeth 
are placed in contrast one with the other, after the manner in which they 
are displayed in the next engraving. In the young mouth, the incisors 
are arranged in a gracefully curved line ; the posterior margins of the 
organ present little peculiarity. In the aged teeth, the prominent 
center of these has retracted, while all idea of grace in the order of their 
disposal has departed. Each member in the old jaw evinces an inclina- 
tion to become equally prominent, and the posterior borders evince an 
obvious angularity. 




DIAGRAU, SHOWING IHE TABLES OF A NATURAL ROW OF FIVE-YEAR OLD TEETH. 




THE TABLES OF THE BI8H0PED TEETH WHICH BELONG TO AN ANIMAL SIXTEEN YEARS OLD. 



Then, if the marks in each are examined, the central cavities in the 
bishoped have jagged edges ; while from these indentations arise certain 
eccentric lines, which invariably run toward the circumference. Such 
lines evidently were not made with any design. They were caused 
either by the inaptness of the operator, the coarseness of the tool with 
which he worked, or they were provoked by the natural struggles of the 
animal that was subjected^'to a merciless operation. The marks, more- 
over, are of a deep-black color ; while the lines are remarkable for some- 
times being of a lighter hue than the surface on which they repose. 



IC^ 



TEETH. 



There are, however, other signs which faithfully denote the age of the 
quadruped. The permanent incisors, when first cut, are almost perpen- 
dicular ; but as years accumulate, these organs assume- a more horizontal 
direction. The tushes also, when they first appear in the mouth, point 
forward. These members, after a time, become straight; but as age 
progresses, they ultimately lean decidedly outward and at length incline 
backward. Besides these well-marked indications, from the disposition 
of the front nippers to arrange themselves in a line, only two can be seen 
in old quadrupeds when the mouth is viewed from the side ; while the 
membrane covering the gums altogether loses its fleshy hue, becoming 
evidently thick, yellow, loose and baggy. 




THE JAW OF A HORSE WHICH WAS THIETT YEARS OP AGE. 



Such marked signs may, by many persons, be esteemed sufficient 
protection ; but there are yet additional characteristics with which all 
who venture to purchase horses of unknown sellers should be acquainted. 
The general indications of senility are strongly impressed both upon 
man and upon horse; though the teeth are usually appealed to, the 
appearance of the mouth should not be absolutely and solely regarded. 
A white horse is rarely young, any more than a white-haired man is, as 
a rule, in the possession of youth. Then, as the juvenile period ceases, 
absorption begins to operate. Deposit no longer takes place -, but with 
senility a rapid wasting ensues ; both bones and flesh suffer under this 
new action. 

The branches of the colt's lower jaw are wide apart, and in the cavity 
thus formed the tongue reposes. This space is called the "channel." 
The lower margins, also, of the inferior maxilla are in the colt full, 
round, and prominent. When age is present, the edges retract, the 
channel narrows, while the lower margins of the bones appear to the 



TEETH. 



U1 



fingers of the examiner, accustomed to handle young horses, to be posi- 
tively sharp. 




A YOUNG HOKSE. AN OLD HORSS. 

Comparative difference in the channels or in the spaces between the branches of the lower jaws. 

When a person having a horse to sell talks boastfully of all "the 
marks " being present in the mouth, avoid him as a suspicious individual. 
Honest men know, or at least all honest men should by this time be aware, 
that there is no dependence to be placed in these so-called "marks ;" there- 
fore they do not strive to direct attention toward fallacious indications. 




SHOWING THE HORSE'S TEETH. 



By simply parting the lips of the animal, a judge can see everything 
which he cares to behold. The kind of teeth present are easily recog- 
nized ; or. when such signs declare the animal to be aged, the position of 
the teeth, the condition of the bones, and the general aspect enable him 
to guess as to a probability. Therefore, when a gentleman requests to 
see the mouth, the horse dealer, unless specially commanded to do so, no 
longer endeavors to tug the jaws asunder, a proceeding which, when 
conducted hastily, is apt to provoke resistance ; but the groom is ordered 
t^ merely separate the lips, a measure to which most animals will com- 
placently submit. 



138 TEETH. 

Should the person to whom the teeth are exhibited, by an evident 
lack of recognition declare his ignorance of their announcement, the 
honest dealer may slyly quiz his patron's want of knowledge; but 
assuredly he will not endeavor to take advantage of it. The author of 
the present volume has found the dealers in horse flesh to be quite as 
honest as, if not more honest than, traders in less perishable commodi- 
ties. There are certain blackguards who profess to be dealers in horses, 
but who have no fixed place of abode or of business. So also there are 
scamps who style themselves traveling jewelers and itinerant book- 
sellers; but the transactions of neither class of rogues (he whose stock 
in trade consists of a whip, or they whose most valuable possession is 
the mahogany box or the specimen number which is carried from house 
to house) can be taken as evidence against the more respectable members 
of the calling to which all will assume to belong. A gentleman, igno- 
rant of any acquaintance with jockey-ship, can walk with perfect safety 
into the yard of any respectable dealer ; look at the animals which are 
for sale, and walk out again, without encountering any undue solicitation 
to purchase. How many shops are there in London, in which a person, 
equally uninformed, could perform the like manoeuvre ? 

When this is written, it is not meant to imply that a horse dealer 
keeps all his stock open to public inspection. On the contrary, in most 
respectable yards there are certain snuggeries which conceal the more 
choice articles. The pick of these are not even open to every purchaser 
who can pay the price. No ! Horse and picture dealers are alike in one 
characteristic trait : each has a pride in the article he sells. The first 
individual will allow his dinner to grow cold, while he remains gloating 
over the points and beauties of some fresh acquisition. "How it would 
look carrying Her Majesty 1" The image amuses his fancy 1 "What a 
spanker to hold a first place in the Beaufort hunt 1" He warms with the 
idea ! "What a charger it would make for Cambridge at a Hyde Park 
Review !" He is in ecstasies at the thought ! He cannot possibly decide 
what so much perfection is fit for. He can never consent to treat such 
loveliness as a mere chattel, — a thing to be sold and then to be enveloped 
in obscurity. The animal must not be parted with to any unknown 
individual I The feeling common to his order forbids him to exhibit the 
object of his pride to general inspection. But he might dispose of it, 
even at a sacrifice, were he convinced it would occupy such a position as 
he esteems it is fitted to adorn. He then could point to the animal and 
vaunt that it came from his yard. Honor, fame, and profit must accrue 
to him who could refer to such exalted dealings ; — therefore there is a 
strong sense of self lurking under that which at first glance appears to 
be mere Quixotic denial of self. 



TEETH. 



139 



At the same time, if all respectable dealers are above positive imposi 
tion, it is not every dealer who will prevent a self-conceited novice from 
imposing upon himself. Such a person, acting upon his own judgment 
may be allowed to purchase the worst screw which some yard contains, 
at the money that should procure a first-rate animal. Even then, the 
dealer has an escape, which every form of worldly honesty will not pro- 
vide. The quadruped, if not approved of, can be exchanged within the 
fortnight following the transaction. To be sure, such exchanges gen- 
erally advantage only one party: but a tradesman must live; he cannot 
be expected to waste hours showing his stock and chattering with fools 
for no business purpose ! 

However, to protect the reader from every chance of imposition, so 
far as the age of the horse may be concerned, let him attentively accom- 
pany the author through the following pages ; let him also particularly 
notice the engravings with which the text is illustrated. 

A foal at birth has three molars or grinding teeth, just through the 
gums, upon both sides of the upper and of the lower jaws. The little 
animal, however, generally displays no incisors or front teeth ; but the 
gums are inflamed and evidently upon the eve of bursting. The molars 
or grinders are, as yet, unflattened or have not been rendered smooth by 
attrition. The lower jaw, moreover, when the inferior margin is felt, 
appears to be very thick, blunt, and round. 




THE foal's jaw AT BIRTH. 



A fortnight has rarely elapsed before the membrane ruptures, and two 
pairs of front, very white teeth begin to appear in the mouth. At first, 
these new members look disproportionately large to their tiny abiding- 
place ; and when contrasted with the reddened gums at their base, they 
have that pretty, pearly aspect which is the common characteristic of 
the milk teeth in most animals. They must occasion pain to the foal at 
this period : the appearance of the little mouth affords sufficient evidence 



140 



TEETH. 



of that fact ; but it is astonishing how meekly these beautiful creatures 
will submit to our examinations of their teeth, — as though they came 
into the world possessed of all confidence in man's intentions and with 
every dependence upon his sympathy. Some of the diminutive strangers 
seem even to derive pleasure from their irritable gums being inspected. 
They behave almost as though they recognized their future master and 
felt flattered by his notice. Alas ! that brutality should ever repel the 
trustfulness of nature, and that experience should instruct most of our 
mute fellow-beings to regard mankind as enemies. 




THE INCISORS AT TWO WEEKS OLD. 




THE INCISORS AT SIX WEEKS OLD. 



It is not until another month has passed, or until the foal is six weeks 
old, that more teeth appear. By that time, much of the swelling present 
on the gums of the newly-born animal has softened down, though all 
trace of it cannot be said to have entirely departed. The membrane, as 
time progresses, will have to resign much of its scarlet hue. In the brief 
period, however, which has elapsed since the former teeth were gazed at, 
the growth has been such that the sense of very disproportionate size no 
longer remains. The two front teeth are now fully up, and these appear 
almost of proportions suited to the mouth which they adorn. But when 
the two pairs of lateral incisors first make their appearance, it is in such 
a shape as can imply no assurance of their future orm. They resemble 
the corner nippers, and do not suggest the smallest likeness to the lateral 
incisors which they will ultimately become. 

The foal, during the first six weeks of its existence, does not learn to 
appreciate, at its just value, that which poets have termed "the milk of 
human kindness. " A little shyness, however, exhibited about this period 
shows that doubt has partially shaken the confidence with which the 
appointed master was formerly welcomed. But the little being is still 
docile ; it does not altogether avoid mankind. It will yet accept their 
caresses, permit patiently their mercenary inspections, acting as though 
its mild disposition, the natural inheritance of its tribe, derived actual 



TEETH./ 141 

pleasure and amusement bj submitting to the will of him whom it must 
shortly recognize as an earthly tyrant. 

Why should not the primary lessons of domestication be now gently 
commenced, when the spirit requires not to be subdued and the temper 
needs not to be conquered ? Is there not unnecessary cruelty in the plan 
which is commonly adopted? The young life is allowed to roam at 
large till the time arrives when man conceives the colt ought to be 
"broken in." There is no gradual instruction; no endeavor to coax or 
to soothe by a display of gentleness. Obedience is remorselessly wrenched 
out of the being. Harshness naturally engenders resistance; but in- 
creased severity is employed, till the willing creature is literally con- 
quered and its spirit "broken." This is done to an animal which is born 
anxious to please its superior. Let the reader ponder over this custom, 
and then reflect upon the retentive memory of the subjected race. They 
must remember — they have no ability to forget. Consider the custom, 
and , also regard the nature upon which that custom operates ; then say 
whether the breeder goes the proper way to develop that sweetness of 
temper and that gentleness of disposition which increase the value of 
equine property. 

But, to return to the subject of the present paper. There is now a 
long pause before more teeth appear in the mouth. The little one, in 
the mean time, lives chiefly upon suction, and runs, during the period of 
perfect happiness, free by its mother's side. Upon the completion of Ihe 
first month, seldom earlier, it may be observed to lower the head and 
nip the young blades of the shooting grass. From the third month, 
however, the habit becomes more frequent, until, by the advent of the 
sixth month, the grinders will be worn quite flat ; or, having lost their 
pointed and jagged prominences, will, by the wear of constant mastica- 
tion, have been reduced to the state which is suited to their function. 




»|t^|j^ 



THE FKONT TEETH AT NINE MONTHS OU). 



The corner incisors come into the mouth about the ninth month, the 
four pair of nippers, which have been afready traced, being at this time 
fully developed. Above is a view of the foal's teeth, as these are ex- 



142 



TEETH. 



hibited at the period named. The reader will remark that the corner 
incisors, which are depicted as through the gums, do not yet meet, though 
these organs point toward each other ; neither has the membrane of the 
mouth at this time entirely lost the deepened hue of infancy. 

From this date, however, the gums gradually become pale, till, by the 
completion of the first year, the membrane has nearly assumed that com- 
plexion which will endure throughout the earlier period of existence. 
All the incisors are, by the first birthday, well up. The masticatory 
agent, although consolidated, has not, when the quadruped is one year 
old, entirely lost the roundness and bluntness of its inferior margin, for 
which the jaw at birth was peculiarly remarkable. 

This fullness of the bone is caused by all the grinding teeth which are 
in the mouth when the foal first sees the light being of a temporary char- 
acter ; the enlargement is consequent upon the jaw, therefore, having to 
contain and to mature the long permanent grinders which, within the 
substance of the bone, are growing beneath the temporary molars. To 
contaui and to allow the large uncut teeth to become developed, before 
appearing above the gums, causes the small jaw of a diminutive foal to 
be disproportionately thick, especially when this part is compared with 
the same structure in an aged horse; but the mind is reconciled to its 
apparent clumsiness when apprised of the uses to which the organ is 
subservient. 




THE JAW OF A ONE-TEAE OLD. 



At one year old, the first permanent tooth appears in the head. This 
is the fourth molar, or that which is represented as the most backward 
grinder in the appended engraving. The reader will not fail to remark 
the greater length which the jaw-bone presents at one year old. The 
additional extent also in the opposite direction cannot otherwise than be 
observed. This increase of size was necessitated to cover the increasing 



TEETH. 



143 



size of the recent molar ; also, to afford room for the partial development 
of two other grinders, which, as age progresses, will appear behind that 
which is now the last tooth. 

About this time, frequently at birth, little nodules of bone, without 
fangs, merely attached to the gums, appear in front of each row of grind- 
ers. These are vulgarly denominated "Wolves' Teeth," and were once 
held to be of vast importance. At present, however, they are recog- 
nized as the simple representatives of those organs which in other ani- 
mals (as in man) render the teeth a continuous or unbroken curve. 
They are, by experience, found to be harmless. It is idle to remove 
these organs, especially as they generally disappear with the shedding 
of those members facing which they are located. 

Although by this period the foal has lost the furzy tail, nevertheless 
it has not assumed the aspect of the horse. Its face and its back want 
length ; its trunk needs bulk ; its legs are much too long ; and no one in 
his senses should, for an instant, imagine it could be a full-grown speci- 
men of its race. Indeed, the author would not mention such a possi- 
bility, did he not know a single instance where an error of this nature 
was actually perpetrated with a creature of the equine order. A cockney 
gentleman took up his residence, a few years ago, in one of the channel 
islands, and wishing to procure some safe animal for the amusement of 
his children, the simple Londoner actually purchased and worked a little 
donkey, barely one year old, in his ignorance mistaking the animal for 
an ass which had attained its maturity. That no reader of the present 
volume may commit so cruel a blunder, the portrait of a horse, as it 
appears at the first year of its age, is presented below. 




ABOUT ONE TEAR OLD. 



The changes in the teeth, after the first year of life has been attained, 
are characterized by the longer periods which divide them. Nature 



144 



TEETH, 



appears, as it were, resting to draw breath for a- mightier effort than she 
has hitherto undertaken. Months have, heretofore, separated the advent 
of siDgle pairs ; but, from this date, these appearances are to be reckoned 
bj numbers and by years. The foal, to the point of its present necessi- 
ties, has been provided for. It has teeth sufficient to support and to 
maintain its growth. 

Nature has now to render perfect the body, before the teeth. Accord- 
ingly, between the first and the second year the alteration in the general 
aspect is very marked. All the helplessness and pretty ungainliness of 
infancy disappears by the expiration of the time mentioned. The ani- 
mal's frame then suggests something of those beautiful proportions which 
it is soon to display. Its body, however, still needs maturing ; and no 
one, less wanting in common sense than a racing man, would think of 
subjecting the youthful and tender form to the hardest of all actual work. 




ABOUT TWO YEAKS OLD. 



The very aspect of the creature should denote it to be unsuited for such 
performances. It must, to foreigners, read as strange intelligence, that 
the nobility, who patronize the English course, applaud the contests 
between two-year olds ; while the bumpkins, who breed horses for the 
general market, allow the quadruped to enter the third year before the 
colt is given over to the breaker. Alas, for the hardihood or want of 
sensibility displayed by the most exalted, when prompted by the greed 
of gambling I 

Nothing in the above sketch is more striking than the contrast pre- 



TEETH. 



145 



sented by tlie character of the head, when compared with the image 
which immediately preceded the last illustration. The face has per- 
ceptibly lengthened ; for by this time a second permanent molar, making 
five grinders on both sides of the upper and of the lower jaws, has broken 
through the fleshy covering of the gums. Preparation is also being 
made for the advent of the sixth grinder, and for changes in those milk 
molars which were in the mouth when the animal was born. At the 
same time, additional width is imperative to allow the permanent inci- 
sors to appear when the proper season arrives for these last organs to 
displace their temporary representatives. 




JAW AT TWO TEAB3 OLD. 



Should the front teeth of a two-year old mouth be examined, there 
will be perceived a want of that fixedness which, one year before, was 




THE INCISOE TEBTH AT TWO TEAE8 OLD. 



the characteristic of these organs. The central nippers appear to have 
done their duty, or, at all events, suggest something approaching to 
maturity has, during their brief existences, been attained. It will 

10 



14ft TEETH. 

hardly provoke regret — certainly it cannot excite wonder — should these 
once beautiful ornaments of the foal's mouth be displaced. Indeed, the 
aspect of jaws in the two-year old plainly intimate approaching altera- 
tion, which in a few months will become apparent. 

Three years old is the period when the greater number of colts are 
brought to market. About this age most animals begin to perform 
work. Omnibus horses are purchased when only thus far advanced in 
life. The army also buys its remounts when no further matured. Car- 
riages are drawn by young horses which, when they become three years 
old, are resigned to the bit, the bearing-rein, and the exactions of Lon- 
don's fashionable ladies. Huntsmen, to be sure, have discovered that a 
quadruped must be " full five" before it can gallop "cross country," take 
fences, and be ridden in at the death, or even be expected to "hold" a 
good place during "the run." But all gentlemen like to sit on the yield- 
ing back of a youthful steed ; though, to be properly maintained, such 
a seat will, very probably, cost fifty pounds a year, if not more money. 
The upper classes of society, and those who sacrifice personal judgment 
to mimic their example, seem to act as though they were assured that 
equine life was, by the third summer, fully fitted to endure the severest 
extortions of mankind ! 

To embitter the fact, every year of the horse's life is not calculated 
according to the calendar. Man chooses to estimate the age of his pos- 
session by another standard than that of the seasons. The first year of 
hardly two animals in the kingdom is precisely of the same iength. 
Horses are, by the Jockey Club, permitted to have only two birthdays. 
Thus, all blood foals must first see the light on the first of January ; or, 
should one presume to peep at the world upon the thirt3^-first of De- 
cember, the decision, which admits of no appeal, will esteem the in- 
truder one year old when the second day of its existence commences. 
Then all animals, not thorough-bred, must forbear to look upon creatioii 
until the first of May comes round ; or, if they dare to mistake the time, 
even by an hour, they are absolutely pronounced one year old, before 
the little beings can fairly stand up and look about them. 

Such regulations may be very convenient for the purposes of the 
Jockey Club ; but nature has not yet given in her submission to human 
institutions. Medical men know that ladies cannot always calculate to 
the minute ; therefore mares, which have not yet learned arithmetic, 
should not be held so very strict to their reckonings. Moreover, when 
men will pay to sit upon the back of a three-year old, it is of all import- 
ance to the spine, which has to endure the burden, whether the nominal 
birthday represents the actual time or merely implies the animal is two 
years and half an hour of positive age. However, the teeth most ob- 



TEETH. 



-47 



stinately ignore the sage code of the Jockey Club ; but the laws of that 
controlling body disdain to notice any variation ; for the creature which 
has lost but one nipper, and the quadruped which has four permanent 
incisors fully up, are both esteemed to have been dropped at the same 
hour, though an animal suffering the first-named change, speaking 
truthfully, may be only rising three. 




THE INCISORS DENOTE THREE TEAES OLD. 



At the same time, the confirmed mouth, with the nippers thor- 
oughly consolidated, and gums not showing a tinge of redness, can 
be esteemed of no greater age : both are three years old ; for both must 
have been born on the first of January or on the first of May, — they had 
no business to appear at any other time. If they were presumptuous 
rebels against the just authority and recognized dignity of the Jockey 
Club, then they are beyond the pale of all consideration, and must bear 
the consequences of their temerity. The differences exhibited by their 
mouths are, therefore, held to be of no account. 

The age at this period ought to be absolutely ascertained ; for most 
horses, when three years old, undergo the greatest exertion. At this 
period, the animal generally has to suffer the instruction of a rude and 
an ignorant — frequently of a brutal and a savage — man, who is justly 
denominated "a breaker." Then, should the "broken" be thought 
worthy of a saddle, it is given up to the gentle mercies of a rough rider, 
and has to be tortured till it is gotten well together, and has thoroughly 
learned its paces. In short, its gentle spirit has to be subdued, or fear 
has to master timidity. How little does man know about that life he 
has been accustomed to coerce I The pride of this world prefers the 



H8 TEETH. 

compuls >ry drudgery of a spirit-broken slave, to the happy service of a 
willing friend. The horse is sent upon earth, prepared to serve and 
eager to share the happiness of its lord ; but it is not understood ; it 
meets with no sympathy ; it is treated as a wild and ravenous beast, 
whose subjugation must be enforced and whose obedience must be 
compelled. 




THE INCISORS DENOTE NO MORE TBAN THREE TEARS OLD. 

The bit is put into its mouth when the third year has been attained. 
It is driven from the field and from the cool grass ; at a period of change 
and of debility it is expected to display the greatest animation, or to 
learn strange things from him who teaches only with the lash or with 
the goad. When its gums are inflamed ; when the system is excited ; 
when the strength is absorbed by an almost simultaneous appearance 
of twelve teeth, it is led from the plain and made, with its bleeding jaws, 
to masticate sharp oats and fibrous hay. At this age, when fever pre- 
vails in its blood, and the growth of its frame naturally weakens the 
muscles, it is expected to have leisure to master new teachings, anima- 
tion to show off strange acquirements, and stamina to endure the weight 
of the tyrant on its back. 

From this date, it is the inhabitant of a close, a fetid, and a heated 
stable. It may languish for a cool draught of pure air ; but its head is 
haltered to the manger, and there it must remain, to inhale the tainted 
atmosphere of its abode. The fire natural to its condition may rage ; 
but it must not slake the thirst which consumes it till the groom brings 
a pail, only to permit so many gulps or "go downs" to be imbibed. 
Nay, if the poor captive should shift its feet, turn its head, or change its 



TEETH. 11^ 

attitude, in the restlessness of fever, it offends its custodian, who, loun^ 
ing upon the locker, watches to maintain order, and can punish, should 
any horse sin against a groom's notion of propriety. Within the stable, 
of an afternoon, all is silent ! The man is uneasy, because of an inward 
consciousness that he is not discharging a humane office. The animals 
are fidgety under unnatural restraint. The very air of the place is op- 
pressive. Nothing appears at ease, save the cat, and this creature dozes 
and purs with enjoyment. But for the poor colt there is no sympathy. 
For should the cutting of many teeth inflame the gums and destroy the 
appetite, an iron is made red hot and violently forced into the mouth, 
under pretense of burning away the groom's favorite disease — "the 
lampas !" which is purely an imaginary disorder. 




JAW OF A THREE-YEAR OLD. 



It has been described that a three-year colt cuts twelve teeth. The 
above engraving represents half the lower jaw of an animal which had 
seen three summers. In it the reader will readily recognize those organs 
which are of recent appearance, by their darker color, by their larger 
size, or by their differing in shape from the other members. These new 
teeth are a central incisor and the first two grinders. The horse has 
two jaws and two sides to each jaw ; therefore the same number being 
present within each side of both jaws, the teeth already alluded to appear 
during the third year. However, even the quantity named rather under- 
states than overrates the fact, for frequently the tushes are cut during 
this period ; should such be the case, the colt acquires no less than six- 
teen teeth in twelve months. We know what the young beings of 
our own species suffer when the gums are ruptured and the bones ab- 
sorbed by the organs of mastication ; the danger then encountered leads 
to a belief that the great agony endured is increased by a rapid growth 



150 



TEETH. 



of the Vody simultaneously weakening the system. The teeth are only 
a part of the living organism ; therefore, as when a part moves we may 
conclude the whole system is in motion, the advent of sixteen huge 
teeth, alone, might reasonably unfit the quadruped for commencing its 
education, or for undergoing the severest portion of its labors. But 
how do the customs of humanity appear, when illumined by a consider- 
ation of the sufferings which nature is imposing at the time the colt is 
tasked to its greatest exertions ? 

Some very low classes of horse proprietors will, however, make the 
work of the three-year old colt as light as possible. The vulgar gen- 
erally regard the frame at this age as not perfectly matured, and they 
treat the strength as not equal to full labor. A nice practical comment 
is thus published upon the behavior of those gentlemen of title and of 
fortune, who train, start, and make animals run races at two years old ! 
Few members of existing society, however, will accord any indulgence 
to a colt during its fourth year. Yet if the quadruped once possessed 
any claim upon consideration, the animal at this period has positive title 
to our forbearance. For the second effort must be more exhausting than 
the first ; since the latter has to be accomplished with diminished 
power. Thus the four-year old has to perfect as many teeth as are 
known to protrude into the mouth of the three-year old. 




JAW OF A FOUR-YEAR OLD. 



The tushes in this view, however, must be disregarded. The precise 
time of appearance is uncertain with these analogues of the canine teeth 
in man, or of the tusks in the porcine race. They may come up at the 
third — they often are delayed to the fourth year ; sometimes these teeth 
never pierce the membrane of the gums, it being very far from uncom- 
mon to see horses' mouths of seven years in which the tushes are absent. 



TEETH. I'^^l 

By the completion of the fourth year, the colt has certainly gained 
twelve teeth ; that is, by this time there should exist, on each side of 
both jaws, one new lateral incisor and two fi*esh molars, being the third 
and the sixth in position. The appearance of the mouth now announces 
the approach of maturity; but the inferior margin of the lower bone 
still feels more full and rounded than is altogether consistent with the 
perfect consolidation of an osseous structure. We cannot take cogni- 
zance of the swollen and enlarged condition of the jaw, without being 
assured that some important process is going forward within its interior. 
It is among the firmest physiological truths, that nature is a strict 
economist and never does anything without intention ; that every en- 
largement or every depression — however insignificant it may appear 
to human eyes — is a permanent provision for some appointed purpose, 
and has its allotted use in the animal system. Accordingly, it is dis- 
covered the sign we just remarked upon indicates the process of denti- 
tion is not finished by the termination of the ' fourth year. There are 
more teeth to be cut, as well as the fangs of those already in the mouth 
to be made perfect. This must be a laborious effort. Nature always 
toils slowly in proportion to the density of her work ; when we regard 
the compact structure of a horse's tooth, we may conjecture the quan- 
tity of blood, the amount of inflammation, and the intensity of suffering 
which are necessary for its perfection. 




ONE LOWER LATERAL INCISOR BEING THROUGH THE GUM CECLAEEa A FOURrYEAR OLD. 

Still a gentleman may purchase a colt with one lower lateral incisor 
barely through the gum. Nevertheless, such a condition of mouth must 
be accepted as announcing the animal to be four years old. That fact is 
not to be disputed, for have not the Jockey Club proclaimed it ? Being 
four years old, most people view the colt as needing no indulgence. The 
creature, at this age, is generally urged to the extent of its power. 
Would mortal intellect think on that which it beholds, and endeavor to 
understand the evidence which is presented to its sight, how much that 
is now carelessly passed by unnoticed would be read as a plea for for- 



152 



TEETH. 



bearance, and how much misery might be banished from that abode 
which the idle complacently term "a vale of tears" I The gums newly 
lacerated or the jaws bleeding do not indicate that conformation of parts 
or announce that established strength which could endure extreme ex- 
haustion. Such signs rather suggest pain, and declare that life is suffer- 
ing the penalty of existence. They ought to kindle the sympathy of 
him who likewise is born to sorrow, and crave the commiseration of one 
whose sad inheritance it is to draw breath at the risk of misery. Would 
any man expect his child — whether girl or boy — when only acquiring 
the permanent front teeth, to be equal to the toil which a task-master 
should allot to fully-developed strength in its prime or in the maturity 
of its power? The horse is not a speaking creature. It has no voice 
to plead or to complain. But what right has the lord of earth, being 
blessed with ability to control his acts and with reason to comprehend 
the signs of nature, to enforce that fate upon the dumb slave in his 
possession from which he would esteem it a duty to shelter his own 
offspring ? 




THESE TEETH EQUALLY DECLARE ONLY FOUR TEARS OLD. 



The colt with four incisors in either jaw, all fully grown and worn flat 
with use, is esteemed to be no older than the animal with only one lateral 
nipper barely through the swollen gum. Both creatures, according to 
man's reckoning, are of one age. Neither can, says the Jockey Club, be 
an hour in advance of the other. Yet the colt with four pairs of perma- 
nent incisors in the mouth has not paid the penalty which nature exacts 
from early life. There are still the corner milk nippers to be shed; yet, 
while the provision necessary for that labor is taking place within the 
body, or while nature is preparing her mute offspring for the coming 
struggle, man considers the poor quadruped as fully developed and as 
enjoying the prime of its existence. 

The teeth may be scarcely visible in the mouth, nevertheless such a 
sign announces the fifth year to be attained. Man, who estimates a 
horse's life according to the laws of the Jockey Club, and ignores na- 



TEETH. 



153 



ture's mode of declaring the duration of existence by signs and attri- 
butes ; man, who in his impatience refuses to reckon age by those func- 
tions which the body has perfected or which it has to mature — man 
seizes upon the imperfect being, as a creature fitted for the accomphsh- 
ment of any kind of labor. There are, at five, no more bothering teeth 
to cut. All are through the bone, and the mouth will soon be sound. 
The animal must be in its prime, and the longest day or the hardest run 
should not beat it to a stand-still. Therefore, show ofi" your horseman- 
ship. Mount, trot, prance, gallop, and leap, as you please. Everybody 
says the horse at this time is in its prime. Tear on to plowed fields. 




FIVE-YEAR OLD. 

One tipper comer permanent incisor has been cut. The lower corner milk incisor is still retained. 



Whip the brute over the widest ditch. Dig your spurs into the flanks 
and take the stiffest hedge. The laboring beast may breathe a little 
hard or possibly may reel : but, so the quadruped does the performance, 
and is scarcely alive after it is accomplished — the owner can hail his 
five-year old as a seasoned horse ! 

Were the writer to pursue this line of observation from year to year, 
the features becoming more minute as time progresses, the investigation 
might ultimately grow wearisome. As age increases, so do the bones 
contract, till absorption at length commences : or at thirty years all the 
appearances of strength, which were conspicuous, will have entirely van- 
ished in the domesticated quadruped that has been subjected to hot 
stables and hard food. The jaw no longer seems endowed with greater 
bulk than is needed for the discharge of its function. It has become 
comparatively thin, and where it once was wide, it is now narrowed 



154 



TEETH. 



Then, the grinding surfaces of the molars are no longer even or straight. 
Comminution of an artificially-prepared diet, continued for a number of 
years, seems to have worn the organs of mastication into a shallow and 
eccentric curve; or, as pressure persevered with upon any living sub- 
stance promotes absorption, probably the constant grinding of hardened 
food has caused parts of the once even surface to be removed. 




THE JAW OF A FIVE-TEAK OU). 



However, many readers may feel disposed to turn from the next illus- 
tration, feeling their dislike of the image to be justified by denominating 




JAW OF A THIRTY-TEAR OLD. 



it an extreme instance. As such it is adduced, and no wrong is, there- 
fore, done by so regarding it. It was inserted simply as bearing con- 
spicuous evidence of that fact which it was the desire to establish. Few, 



TEETH. 



155 



very few English horses live to reach the thirtieth year ; but to show 
that those signs which were remarkable in the last engraving commence 
at an earlier period, below is the jaw of a twelve-year old horse, ir 
which the presence of all the indications that at the thirtieth year seem 
exaggerated, may be clearly discerned in their commencement. 




JAW OP A TWELVE-TEAR OLD. 



The author must now explain the phenomena to which he has directed 
the reader's attention. The molar teeth are not all of the like size, nor 
of one form. The organs occupying the upper jaw are nearly, not quite, 
double the width of those which are located in the lower jaw. The 
inferior molars are the grinding agents, or the active organs of mastica- 
tion. The superior teeth are simply the passive tables upon which, or 
against which, the food undergoes comminution. The slab is always 
the lowest of the two in human mills ; but nature has more to provide 
for than the mere pulverization of certain substances. With mastication, 
actually commences a very compound process. With the act of chewing, 
digestion begins ; it was ordained that more than any mechanical inven- 
tion can accomplish should be imperative to the due performance of this 
function. The benevolence of the All-wise instituted that while his 
creatures were promoting the healthy exercise of the appropriative ne- 
cessity, they should likewise excite their enjoyment. Therefore when 
pulp is masticated, the pressure of the teeth expels the juices, which fall 
directly upon the seat of taste. When a harder substance has to be 
comminuted, the bulk is first shattered into fragments ; the particles, de- 
scending upon either side of the teeth, have to be gathered up and placed 
again between the masticatory organs. The movements of the tongue 
and jaw excite the salivary glands ; the broken substance becomes min- 



156 



TEETH. 




V..5 -v./ j_ l/j ■>/ 

*HE CONDITION IN ■WHIIH THE TABLE 
OP A TEMPORARY MC'AR IS CAST 
FROM THE MOUTH OF A HORSE. 

The dotted lines mere.y indicate 
the extent of the tootli previous 
to absorption. 



gled with the secretion of the last-named bodied. Saliva extracts the 
savor from the food ; and the tongue also brings these in contact with 
the seat of taste, while discharging its office of collecting the broken 
pieces. 

The reader being now fully informed as to facts, may have patience 
sufficient to peruse an explanation of the principles on which the fore- 
going statements are founded. Such a mode of proceeding may, to 
certain methodical writers, seem to be transposing the proper arrange- 
ment. The author does not undertake to defend his actions on the score 

of their propriety ; but he feels that he is ad- 
dressing human beings in whom a desire to 
know is the best possible foundation on which 
knowledge can be established ; consequently, 
principles become less repulsive when com- 
municated after incidents have kindled cu- 
riosity. 

The primary molars cannot boast the length 
of the fang, though they exhibit very nearly 
the same extent of superficial surface as char- 
acterizes the succeeding teeth. They have 
rather shallow roots, which are not composed 
of those consolidated materials that are present in their immediate suc- 
cessors. When the original molar is shed, the temporary tooth is not 

expelled entire from its position, but the pres- 
sure of the growing organ (which comes into 
the mouth exactly where the milk grinder 
stood) causes the root to be absorbed, till 
nothing but a superficial shell has to be 
3jected. 

The horse, in its natural state, exists on 
fibrous grasses ; it therefore becomes essential 
the animal should retain the power of mas- 
ticating such substances. Nature never with- 
holds what is necessary to the well-being of 
her creatures. The mode in which the Com- 
mon Parent provides for the preservation of 
this ability in the horse is perfectl}^ distinct 
from any provision that He makes for most 
earthly creatures. The temporary remains of 
a molar tooth are not shed till another organ 
is in the mouth at hand to permanently sup 
ply its place. . But the permanent tooth does not appear ready flattened 




A FIRST PERMANENT MOLAR, AS 
IT APPEARED IN THE MOUTH, 
UNCOVERED. 

This tooth occupied the fourth 
situation in the jaw ; there- 
fore the root would require 
to be considerably e.xtended 
by subsequent growth. 



TEETH. 



157 



and prepared to discharge its office. It is cut with certain angular 
prominences upon its masticating surface, which must render the animal 
disinclined to employ it on the instant of its development. This dis- 
inclination allows a pause, during which the various structures can be 
consolidated, and at the end of such brief space the prominences have 
become blunted, while the organ, being firmly planted, is then ready for 
mastication. Is it not surprising how a plain statement of facts can 
reasonably account for that disinclination to feed which, to the groom's 
mind, announces a state of disease that shall necessitate the employment 
of burning iron to eradicate what the man styles "Lampas !" 

There remains, however, to account for that width and depth of jaw 
by which the head of the youthful horse is distinguished. The reader 
is requested to attentively inspect the last illustration. The size and 
length of fang cannot fail to awaken his surprise. Nevertheless, if this 
part be regarded it will be seen depicted as of a ragged, incomplete, and 
apparently of a hollow condition. So, when the tooth has displaced the 
temporary molar, and has taken its station within the mouth, it has still 
to grow. The protruded portion may be consolidated; but the un- 
finished extremity is denominated the cavity of the pulp. That pulp con- 
sists of a fine bladder, on which ramify numerous blood-vessels ; but the 
interior of which contains simply a clear fluid. This is the secreting 
membrane of the tooth. Out of this watery 
bag the wonderful chemistry of nature can ex- 
tract the most condensed material that resides 
within the strong body of a horse. 

Another feature of the above tooth, because 
it balks expectation, can hardly fail to attract 
notice. The dark hue of the outward covering, 
being abhorrent to human notions of youth or 
of purity, is generally attributed to dirt. The 
tooth of the horse is, however, composed of 
three substances : a tough and fibrous material, 
called crusta petrosa ; a thin layer of crystalline 
deposit, named enamel; and a kind of compact 
bone, spoken of as dentine. They occur accord- 
ing to the order in which they are named. The 
bone exhibits a yellow tinge, and is present in 
the greatest quantity, for it forms the inner bulk 
of the tooth. The crusta petrosa is a comparatively thick external en- 
velope, being about five times the substance of the enamel, to which it is 
an outward protection. The components are thrown into various con- 
volutions ; but the order alluded to is always preserved. The bone or 




SECTION OF A MOLAR 
TOOTH. 



158 TEETH. 

dentine is invariably the internal substance ; it needs to occupy such a 
position, as within it the sensation resides. The erusta petrosa and the 
enamel may be tampered with without perception being aroused; but 
the dentine is capable of communicating the acutest agony; and it is 
upon the dentine that rogues operate, when they "bishop" an old 
horse. 

To convince the reader that nature has not needlessly sacrificed the 
whiteness of the horse's tooth, the author will dilate fully upon the many 
services afforded by the dark-colored erusta petrosa. To render the 
explanation more intelligible, reference will be here made to a common 
tool seen every day in the hands of an ordinary mechanic. The brick- 
layer's trowel appears to be nothing more than a thick layer of metal ; 
but it is hourly put to uses for which iron would be too soft, and steel 
would be too brittle. Therefore, the blade is composed of a thin layer of 
steel, inclosed within two comparatively thick layers of iron. By the 
combination of opposite quahties, perfect utility is produced; and this 
trowel, it seems hard to believe, was not suggested by that arrangement 
which is conspicuous in the horse's tooth. 

The enamel, hard, brittle, and readily fractured, but presenting a fine 
or a cutting edge, is developed as a thin layer, convoluted upon the sides 
of the dentine, and securely covered by erusta petrosa. That the incisive 
substance may fulfill its office, may sever or comminute the tough and 
fibrous herbs upon which the equine race subsist, it is inclosed between 
two elastic bodies, the whole being held together by the vessels which 
pass from the exterior to the interior of the organ, though these vessels 
do no more than travel through the enamel without nourishing or sup- 
porting it ; the latter structure being of a crystalline nature, or strictly 
inorganic, therefore not fitted to appropriate nutriment. 

The erusta petrosa is, however, of further use than has been already 
stated. The horse's grinders are generally supposed to be gifted with a 
power of growth whereby they are enabled to repair that perpetual loss 
of substance to which their employment must subject them. The teeth, 
certainly, are not perfected when the crowns first appear in the mouth ; 
so far the opinion is capable of being upheld. But when once completed, 
the dentine is not endowed with any innate ability to renew its loss of 
substance. The wear consequent upon continual use is provided for by 
the length of fang which characterizes the permanent molar of the quad- 
ruped. As the surface gradually decreases, so are the lower parts of the 
teeth, by the contraction of the jaw-bones, forced into the mouth, while 
the outward investing substance — the erusta petrosa — being gifted with 
a limited power of increase, is enabled thereby to firmly retain the 
protruded fang in its new position; although the contraction of the 



TEETH. 



159 



bones, whicli is always going forward as age advances, does not necessi- 
tate the power of growth should in early life be largely exhibited. 

"With almost every form of being, as years accumulate, the ability to 
masticate becomes enfeebled. It is with the horse as it is with other 
animals. The thin coating of enamel does not extend to the ultimate 
root of the fang, so that in advanced age the power of the molars is 
almost destroyed by the absence of the cutting agent upon the grinding 
surface. The chief component, moreover, or the dentine, diminishes in 
quantity as in solidity ; the last portions of the molar, therefore, could 
not fill the socket, only for that ability to increase with which the crusta 
petrosa is gifted. Upon the extreme roots of the grinders, taken from 
the jaws of very old horses, this substance is always found in great 
abundance. In illustration of this fact, a sketch made from the tooth of 
an aged quadruped is here inserted ; the body has been sawn asunder, 
to exhibit the proportions and the substances that 

entered into its composition. The reader will re- P^ ~ r^ 

mark certain dark lines upon the dentine. These v j 

indicate the places where existed the cavity of the ': 

pulp, which once served to nourish the organ ; but '« :' 

it is lost as vitality lessens with the advance of V _ ^ H r . ' 
senility. Does not the reader, as he inspects the ^^^^ "^iii^ 

,1 • 1 J J i1 r n SECTION OF AN AGED MOLAR 

engravmg, perceive the wickedness and the folly tooth. 

of placing harsh and dried food before a creature 

which nature, in age, deprives of ability to comminute such a form of 

sustenance ? 

The permanent incisors are not cut after the same manner as the 
molars. The nippers being merely emplo3^ed to bite the grass, a wide 
vacancy does not necessarily incapacitate the other portions of the ex- 
cising apparatus. A blade can cut, even though a large notch exist upon 
its edge. Whereas the points which are developed upon the upper sur- 
faces of the newly cut molars must render the grinders entirely useless ; , 
although the short period of enforced abstinence, which announces the 
appearance of a fresh double tooth, may be nature's own medicine to 
quiet a feverish system, burning with morbid excitement. 

The front milk teeth have fangs when they appear in the mouth ; but 
no fang exists when the primary members are shed. The root of the 
temporary organ, when perfect, however, resembles that of the perma- 
nent incisor. It is only sufficient to fit the member for its purposes. In 
the same canal as was occupied by the milk tooth, the permanent in- 
cisor generally appears. Much suffering must attend the absorption of 
bone ; yet, during the time the huge permanent nipper is forcing its way 
through the narrow channel, which held firmly the diminutive milk 



160 



TEETH, 



tooth, and wliile the smaller fang is by pressure being also absorbed, the 
colt receives no consideration at the hands of the groom or of its master. 
Both are equally ignorant of the necessity for kindness ; but each re- 
gards any indication of pain as one of those visitations of disease to 
which young horses are said to be peculiarly liable. 

When the foal has shed the front milk teeth, the entire of the service- 
able or visible portion of these members is displaced. They are en- 
dowed with no power to supply any diminution of their substance, 
neither are they capable of renewal; whereas the long permanent 
incisor may be viewed as all tooth, and possessing no fang ; for as the 
upper portion wears, so does the lower part protrude or supply its place. 
The two teeth, however, present a strong contrast when considered as 





A MllK AND A PEKMANENT INCISOR TOOTH. 



organs, both occupying one cavity, and both united to fulfill the like uses 
in the same animal. The illustration last displayed represented a per- 
manent and a temporary incisor ; the uneven mark dividing the milk 
tooth indicates the appearance of the organ after the absorption of the 
fang causes it to be cast from the mouth, while the dotted line shows the 
shape and the extent of the fang previous to its absorption by pressure. 
The amount of root natural to the permanent incisors enables those 
organs, as years increase, to alter their arrangement, length, and direc- 
tion, without being displaced. In youth, the united front teeth compose 
a curve, or almost a semicircle. In age, the same members incline 
toward a straight, or at best form an irregular line. In the colt, the 
teeth are flat, smooth, and filbert shaped ; but in the old animal, they 
are decidedly long and angular. When the permanent teeth first appear, 
they are nearly perpendicular ; but when they have been a long time ex- 
posed, they protrude almost in the horizontal direction. Looking, from 
the side, at a young mouth, the spectator can behold half the nippers ; 



TEETH. 



161 



but when inspecting the old teeth from the same point of view, two onl/ 
will be visible, though the full number shall be present in the mouth. In 




8IX TEABI OLD. 




SEVEN TEARS OLD. 




SIGHT TEARS OLD. 

tHE nrasoBS of hobses of different period3 of ase afieb the fifth teab. 

11 



162 



TEETH. 



the aged quadruped, moreover, the narrowing of the incisors allows the 
spaces between the organs to be vacant. Within these spaces the food 




TWENTY TEARS OLD. 




THIETT TEARS OLD. 
THK IKOISORS OP HORSES OF DIFFERENT PERIODS OF AGE AFTER THE FIFTH TEAR. 



accumulates, which, being there retained and becoming black, looks as 
though the creature had been chewing tobacco. Such signs are too 6xed 



TEETH. 163 

to be disguised. The accumulation of blackened food, it is true, may be 
taken away ; but its removal will leave the interspaces, if possible, stih 
more conspicuous. So also the long teeth may be shortened ; but they 
will not be elevated to the perpendicular, or changed to a filbert form, or 
restored to the semicircular arrangement. 

The tushes likewise may be regarded. These teeth are sometimes 
absent in mares, and in animals of the female sex are seldom developed 
of the size which they commonly exhibit in the male. When first cut, 
the tush is spear shaped, having well-defined grooves running down its 
margins. As age advances, all pretension to this form is lost. The 
tooth either becomes very flat upon its crown or it may be rendered 
level with the gum ; else it grows very long, looking more like a coarse 
spike than the organ it really is. Also, when it originally appears in 
the young mouth, the tush ranges evenly with the parts from which it 
grows, and points forward. As senility is attained, the member is 
directed outward ; with extreme old age, it faces backward. The con- 
traction of the jaw causes the tongue to protrude from the free spaces 
between the teeth, while the consequent shallowness of the canal formed 
by the branches of the bone occasions the saliva to dribble forth when 
the lips are parted. 

The indications of extreme age are always present, and though during 
a period of senility the teeth cannot be literally construed, nevertheless 
it should be impossible to look upon the "venerable steed" as an animal 
in its colthood. 

No man can accurately interpret the signs of the teeth after the fifth 
year. A guess, more or less correct, can be hazarded ; but nothing like 
confident judgment can be pronounced subsequent to the period just 
named. Cases will frequently occur, which shall set our best endeavors 
to be correct at defiance. But for such instances it is not difficult to 
account. The Jockey Club may order as it pleases about birthdays; 
but children and foals will, nevertheless, obtrude upon the world all the 
year round. Such downright absurdity, as a pretense at controlling the 
operations of nature, was never perhaps equaled, save by the burlesque 
monarch depicted by Mr. Planchfe, who, because he is hungry, wills that 
it be one o'clock, when the sun declares the time to be only twelve. It 
might be more convenient, certainly, if foals could agree all to put in 
appearances at a particular date ; but until such an arrangement has 
been entered into by the parties principally concerned, it is idle pre- 
'iumption for any set of men \o issue ordinances which, never being 
observed, render "confusion worse confounded." 

The difference between the times of birth in various animals, it is 
true, may cause different aspects in the teeth, and even induce men, in 



164 TEETH. 

obedieice to the rules of the Jockey Club, to call a colt four, which 
truth and the teeth declare to be only three. Horses may therefore be 
readily reckoned older than they really are : but there is a general belief 
that rogues in Yorkshire can make the teeth say five, when the actual 
age is only four ; or, in other words, can so successfully tamper with the 
mouth as to induce the teeth to belie the actual age. Ignorant people 
have a blind faith in the power of those who chance to be more knowing 
than themselves ; but the author can only regard the general belief in 
"Yorkshire fives," as illustrating the total unacquaintance of the public 
with all that concerns equine economy. 

An elderly lady once laid claim to a dog which she beheld led about 
the streets for sale. The possessor disputed her title, and the pair were 
by the police introduced to a magistrate. Both gave a different name 
as that belonging to the animal. The dog came to either appellation. 
When put down on the floor of the court, it went to man or lady with 
equal indifference. It was a puzzling case. At length, the bench was 
illumined by a bright idea. "Hand me the dog," cried his worship, who 
quickly placed it out of sight. Then, addressing the female supplicant, 
he said, " I beg your pardon. All you have said about signs and marks 
may be perfectly correct ; but such things, possibly, in two animals, may 
be the same. The creature evidently does not appear to recognize its 
mistress ; for, though it comes to your call, yet it will leave you when 
spoken to from an opposite direction. I beg your pardon, madam, we 
have settled, apparently, all points but one. Pray excuse me 1 But was 
your animal a gentleman or a lady ?" " Oh 1 sir I" replied the distressed 
female, "mine was a lady dog." "Then I am afraid I must give the 
case against your ownership, for this dog is decidedly a gentleman." 
With that, he returned the animal to the man. " Stop, sir ! Stay ! Oh 1 
pause ! Consider, sir, those dog stealers can play such tricks," sobbed 
forth the disconsolate female. "' 

So particular people appear to credit Yorkshire horse dealers with an 
ability to perform "such tricks." No doubt they have every wish; but 
the author questions whether they have yet attained the power to compel 
nature at their bidding. All they are said to do, as pulling out the milk 
teeth, firing and blistering the gums, are like the arts which were for- 
merly used to raise the evil one ; and, in the writer's opinion, about as 
likely to be attended with success. Cruelty is more calculated to retard 
than to promote development. However, if the mouth exhibit the signs 
proper to a five-year old, the animal may with safety be purchased, as 
being of that age. Should it be younger than five, the owner is the 
gainer ; since the teeth do no more than indicate the development of the 
body, and an early maturity is the best evidence that the quadjuped, 
during the previous years, has been tenderly nurtured. 



TEETH. 165 

Certain readers may feel opposed to the illustrations which have been 
inserted into this division of the present volume. It may be justly ad- 
vanced that, in the earlier portion of the present treatise, the author 
asserted horses could live until the animal had reached its sixtieth year. 
However, recently he adduced the mouth of a quadruped which endured 
but half that period ; yet this specimen exhibited features indicative of 
immediate decay. 

Such an accusation would be well grounded ; it could not be denied. 
The sixty-year old of which the writer spoke was not feeding in the 
stable. The creature whose teeth are delineated to represent the ap- 
pearances displayed at the thirtieth year was not in the field, but tied 
up in a stall. The one quadruped was consuming its natural food, the 
other had to masticate those artificially-prepared substances which man 
finds it most convenient to place before the dumb captive. 

The engravings inserted to illustrate the aspect of the mouth, during 
the thirtieth year, may therefore be regarded as exemplifying the evils 
which result from the present mode of feeding. Hay and oats, as now 
given in dry and hard conditions, are the most expensive articles of 
sustenance which could be found. Much of the hay passes through the 
system only partially digested. In what condition the oats are voided, 
the sparrows of the roadway and the chickens on the dung hill equally 
attest. Under the present system at least half the diet is ejected from 
the body unappropriated. Much more would be lost, but for the capa- 
cious and convoluted intestines of the equine race. Within these, the 
provender swallowed is long retained, and during the entire period of its 
retention it is exposed to the digestive action which its components are 
beautifully formed to resist. 

Aloes, a most drastic purgative, is the one in common use with stable- 
men. It takes four and twenty hours before its operation is witnessed ; 
for an entire day it lies dormant within the body, notwithstanding the 
aids of warm water, bran mashes, and occasional exercise are resorted 
to, so as to quicken its laxative effects. The animal, during this period, 
is obviously ill, and the medicine may be heard causing a "rumbling 
noise " within the bowels. But if a drastic purgative is four and twenty 
hours traveling along the digestive track, what period will be occupied 
by those dry materials which must have positively a constipating effect ? 
F'^wever, the latter kind of diet is not all acted upon when cast forth; 
that portion which is ejected in an unchanged condition represents so 
much cash which has been expended to no purpose. 

Of course, the mastication of artificially-prepared food wears the 
teeth, and also taxes the powers of nature far more than would the 
natural diet. By the operation of both causes, the horse's life is ren- 



166 TEETH. 

dered much shorter than it would be were the animal kept after a nat- 
ural fashion. The diminished period of existence we will mildly esti- 
mate at one-half the natural duration; therefore, under the existing 
mode of stable management, every gentleman pays twice as much for 
an animal as under a better system need be given. Nay, the extrava- 
gance does not end here ; for the unnatural nourishment first generates 
weakness, and weakness is the beginning of disease. There is, there- 
fore, to be added to the account — annoyance, loss of service, and the 
veterinary surgeon's charges. To crown all, the proprietor cannot 
obtain the full exertion from the animal ; the body being only partially 
supported even during the seasons of imperfect health. The incom- 
pletely digested food has also to be considered. Altogether, as the 
author has no desire to make out a case, suppose the latter influences 
reduce the value of the remaining portion of life one-half, and we arrive 
at the conclusion that the horse proprietor literally squanders fifteen 
shillings out of every pound he pays for his horse ; and he is thus ex- 
travagant, simply because, to consult the convenience of his groom, he 
will persist in feeding the animal upon a most unnatural and injurious 
kind of diet. 

This subject will, however, be fully considered in the next chapter, 
where " food " is separately regarded. The author must only here state 
that he is not advocating a return to grass, although grass may suggest 
an idea as to the proper kind of nutriment without itself being the thing 
desired. It is certainly true that horses look round for their food, and 
the stable is always in commotion when the hour arrives for its distri- 
bution. This fact, however, establishes nothing. Horses are fidgety 
equally during the period of watering. Horses, in other countries, are 
uneasy when the stable companions are being fed ; yet in all countries 
they do not live as in England. In the extreme northern parts of the 
world, they eat dried fish ; in the Crimea, they gnawed one another's 
tails ; in Arabia, they feast upon barley and chopped straw ; in India, 
rudely cut grass, which has frequently parted with its moisture as well 
as shed its seed, and a dark grain termed "gram," is their support. In 
Germany, they enjoy black bread. In Ireland, they delight in raw 
potatoes. In various parts of England, they enjoy different sorts of 
nourishment. In some countries, boiled substances are the favorite dish. 
In others, cut roots are swallowed with avidity ; while there is a growing 
custom of administering those various seasonings, all of which bear the 
general designation of "patent food." In short, the stabled horse can ap- 
parently be brought to consume anything ; but of all the known varieties 
of diet, the author must regard that which is harsh, dried, and artificially 
prepared, as the most convenient — but the most injurious and unnatural. 



TEETH. 167 

Its consequences are, perhaps, best exhibited by the thirst which il 
will generate. The horse* is not, naturally, a large drinker ; but if tho 
internal portions of the body have to supply moisture, in order that these 
parts may extract the nutriment from dry food, the water must be re- 
placed from an outward source. Horses have been known to be ill from 
excessive thirst. Mr. William Percivall, the late respected author on 
veterinary subjects, has recorded a case of this description. Neverthe- 
less, copious draughts of cold water are frequently attended with 
danger ; only, does it not exhibit a refinement upon cruelty — firstly, to 
imprison an animal, and fasten it to one spot; secondly, to give only 
such provender as must generate a craving for fluid ; thirdly, to with- 
hold the liquid which our folly has created a desire to imbibe ? 

The stable diet, moreover, throws the incisors out of use. These 
teeth, in the domesticated animal, are employed only to grasp a little 
hay and to pull it from the rack. They are of no further service. One 
of their popular names, "nippers," is in general a misnomer, for they are 
permitted to nip nothing ; much less are they allowed to exercise their 
incisive faculty. Therefore, being thrown out of use, the members have 
no function to control their natural growth. They continue to protrude 
as age advances, till, by the thirtieth year, or by the time the quadruped 
has attained half the period of its natural existence, the front teeth have 
become long spikes, and are actual deformities within the mouth they 
were designed to adorn. 

So palpable a sign is, however, not understood. To be sure, the 
present treatment of the horse slaughters the majority of its fellows before 
dentition is perfected. Few gentlemen, therefore, may have looked upon 
an aged quadruped ; for prevailing fashion declares the creature, whose 
strength and youth have been devoted to man's pleasure, should be sold 
so soon as the advent of age is apparent. The chances, consequently, . 
are, that the present chapter will be "news" to the greater number of 
readers. It may record facts which will be perused with wonder, and it 
may adduce circumstances which will be read with surprise. 

Though up to the present moment these things may not have been 
properly regarded, from the present time there can be no excuse for con- 
tinuing existing customs. Why should the teeth of the horse alone be 
subjected to abuse ? The dog lives off biscuits and cooked flesh ; the 
cat enjoys the scraps from the family table. Why should the horse, of 
all strictly domesticated creatures, be doomed to consume raw food ? It 
would be cheaper to prepare all sustenance for digestion, since, in that 
form, less would communicate more nourishment; and if the matter is 
to be decided as a money question, there can be no doubt as to the side 
on which pecuniary interest would range. 



CHAPTER V. 

rOOD THE FITTEST TIME FOR FEEDING, AND THE KIND OP FOOD WHICH 

THE HORSE NATURALLY CONSUMES, 

The folly of perversity or the madness of abuse can imagine no pos- 
sible wrong that the human race have not inflicted upon the creature to 
which civilization owes its heaviest obligations. The horse, which more 
than shares in mortal toil, is forced to work before its bones are matured. 
When strained and deformed by the severity of labor, it is sworn at and 
lashed because its body shares, with all things on this earth, the perish- 
ableness which is inseparable from mortal existence. It is created to 
enjoy the freest breezes of the plain ; but, by the superior power which 
has domesticated, the type of activity is doomed to stand, throughout 
life, within the narrow confines of a stall. It is the emblem of timidity ; 
yet it is driven into every species of peril. Nature endowed it with 
fleetness, and formed it to delight in action ; but mankind expect it to 
exhibit health during years of inactivity, and think its limbs should not 
become stiff from incessant lack of motion. 

Its food grows abundantly on the surface of earth; every fresh 
mouthful necessitates an additional step; for the animal, when free, 
walks as it eats, and lowers the head, to collect its sustenance from the 
ground. Mankind imprisons the poor life ; the hay is placed level with 
the ears, and the corn is given even with the chest of the animal. Nay, 
the very groom, when he permits water to be imbibed, raises the pail, 
resting its edge upon his knee. Nature enabled the horse to feed by 
night, — when the air is cool ; when all is quiet ; when the grass is moist, 
and when the flies are not abroad : then the emblem of concord pastures 
in peacefnlness. The stabled horse is allowed to eat only by day. 
Though intended to be watchful, horse masters insist the wakeful quad- 
ruped should accept twelve hours of repose ; and they lock the stable 
door, that its imaginary slumbers may be undisturbed. 

The sufferer wears clothes only while under shelter. During summer 

it always retains its coat ; but, as frost and snow approach, the covering 

which nature sent to conserve the body's warmth human wisdom either 

clips or singes away, dooming the native of a sunny cUme to shiver in 

(168) 



FOOD. 169 

the blast of a northern winter. Man knows that heat benefits his slave , 
yet the horse only feels it as the product of impurity ; so that, either it 
must suffer from the lowness of temperature, or it must languish from 
the inhalation of a tainted atmosphere. 

The summit of wrong, however, seems to be attained, when we con- 
sider the food which the companion of man is condemned to consume 
within the walls of its dungeon. The com is gathered after it has 
become ripe, or after all moisture has ceased to circulate within the 
grain; and even then it must be hardened and further dried by age 
before it is cast into the manger. The juicy herbage of the field — the 
soft verdure of the earth — is the natural support of the creature. Never- 
theless, man presents grass to his captive only after the wind and the 
sun have expelled moisture from the stems; and after fermentation in 
the stack often has parched the blades till these crumble beneath the 
touch. 

When time has accomplished the hardening which human perversity 
regards as most essential toward maintaining the health of a horse; 
when both corn and hay have been transformed into stubborn and un- 
yielding substances; at the age when the first will rattle harshly on 
being shaken in the sieve, and the last grate audibly when moved by the 
fork, — then, only then, is either placed before the quadruped. Such 
provision the prisoner must consume or starve. Hunger is the hardest 
of all task-masters. The dumb being cannot tell of the agony occasioned 
by man's forcing its organ's of mastication to uses which will wear down 
the hardest and coarsest of stones; it cannot portray the torment of 
thirst, begotten by the long pulverization of matter rendered tough and 
dry by artificial processes ; it cannot describe the agony produced by the 
grating of such nutriment upon the tender membrane of the stomach; 
nor can it announce those cruel diseases which afflict the sufferer, — each 
being engendered by mistaken treatment, against which the afflicted is 
powerless to appeal. 

That which the mouth was designed to prepare, the stomach was 
intended to appropriate. Moist food is most enjoyed by the horse, and 
moisture is likewise imperative for the completion of digestion. Upon 
the accomplishment of this process health and life are .dependent. There 
is no part of the frame which is endowed with an independent existence. 
By that which the root absorbs, the remotest twig is nourished. The 
feet or the limbs may fail ; man may term such a failure a misfortune, 
or speak of it as an accident ; but the weakness of the body is the pri- 
mary necessity of almost all such occurrences. The trunk must bend 
before the vigor of inflammation can be displayed ; and health must have 
departed before the presence of disease is possible. 



ItO FOOD. 

"Nonsense I folly! downright stupidity 1" some sporting reader may 
exclaim. "Look at all men, when in training. Do not they, during 
such time, live upon cZry/oo(Z?" Certainly not. Not upon food " dry " 
in the same sense as is implied by the sound hay and seasoned oats of 
the stable. Bread, seen upon any human table, whether as loaf or bis- 
cuit, is a moist substance, when compared with either of the articles on 
which horses subsist. But what shall be said about the contents of the 
rack or the manger, when compared with the under-done rump steak of 
which man, when in training, so frequently partakes ? 

Nor is the subject fairly reviewed, when the form of food is alone 
considered. The horse does not graze without selection. Certain herbs 
are scrupulously avoided ; others are eagerly sought for. The animal 
does not eat straight before it ; but the head moves to either side, each 
mouthful being carefully collected with the lips before the juicy tops of 
the plants are operated upon by the teeth. The horse feeds only off the 
growing ends of the grasses. The varying herbage may be supposed 
to present numerous savors to the keen scent of the pasturer ; and a 
fresh flavor may be relished with each new mouthful. Nature has evi- 
dently scattered variety, where the dull sense of man can perceive only 
sameness ; and, to the temperate palate of a horse, the verdure of the 
fields may afford a delicious and an ever-varying banquet. 

The instinct which enables the animal to make a selection among 
numberless growing plants, fades and is lost when moisture has departed 
with the color, and the perfume natural to the herbage has been changed 
by art. The animal perceptions may be puzzled ; for art can defeat in- 
stinct. Some quadrupeds, as if much perplexed, will pick the hay, 
eating little, but spoiling more than is consumed. Others appear to 
distaste the preparation, and these refuse it altogether. Few inhabitants 
of the stable will accept ail that may be placed before them, though the 
rejection may depend more upon the fastidiousness begotten by captivity, 
than be generated by positive dislike. Few animals exhibit either choice 
or discretion in the selection of certain portions of prepared fodder. The 
rejection of particular parts seems to be guided only by fancy or caprice. 
That which in the green state would be abhorred, when " cut and dried" 
may by preference be devoured. 

We can reasonably conclude that the impulses of instinct, being natural 
instructors, convey wise admonitions. Many people are so credulous as 
to believe that the Creator is all-wise, and that nothing formed by the 
will of Omnipotence is without a special purpose. It is man who 
converts grass into hay; thus rendering nugatory that discrimination 
which was bestowed as a protection upon the lower life. 

Some persons may feel disposed to assert that all power to injure is 



FOOD. 171 

also lost, when the natural odor of prepared herbage has been changed ; 
they may argue that what was injurious, with the scent has also lost 
the characteristic capability to harm. Does chemistry uphold such a 
conclusion ? The dried and powdered herbs of the Pharmacopoeia point 
to an opposite inference. Experience and experiment warrant a con- 
trary judgment. The yew-tree is an active poison to the hoi'se. Gar- 
deners annually clip the compact hedges of yew, which too frequently 
surround and shelter country lawns. The twigs often fall into fields 
where horses are pastured. While the cuttings remain green, the ani- 
mals recognize the poisonous nature and refuse to partake of the fallen 
leaves. But let exposure dry the refuse, and the grasses of the meadow 
are deserted, to devour that which was previously avoided. The poison, 
however, has not evaporated with moisture. The odor, by which danger 
was recognized, alone has been lost ; but the deadly nature seems to be 
more concentrated : or the issue may be rendered speedier by the les- 
sened bulk of the dried vegetable, and the greater amount of it which 
therefore can be swallowed. 

Apply the above illustration, and, guided by its teaching, say how far 
man is justified in presenting the wholesale gathering of a field to a 
hungry horse. It is true, we know of no injury being produced by hay. 
But we know that the stable, as at present managed, is far from a health- 
ful abode. We are certain, instinct was not created without a purpose ; 
and we have seen that the vegetable, which is avoided when fresh, is 
not rendered powerless by its moisture being expelled. Therefore, 
guided by such monitors, we can do no wrong by endeavoring to render 
hay a wholesome food. None of the grasses are positively poisonous ; 
but the animal prefers those which have a crisp and clean appearance. 
Soft or woolly provender is never relished. It were an easy labor for a 
youth to select the good from the bad ; while doing this, the boy might 
be instructed to reject all and everything which was not the fitting kind 
of grass. The cost of such a process would be very trifling, and the 
welfare of the animal might soon repay all extra outlay. 

However, few, very few people know how to tell a good from a bad 
sample of hay. "Vast quantities of that which no proprietor should 
oblige his imprisoned slaves to consume, are daily sold; some persons 
even prefer particular kinds of produce; while others, urged by par- 
simony, will purchase only damaged hay. There should be, however, 
in this substance little room for the exercise of choice or of discretion. 
The characteristics of good hay are very marked, and such only should 
be purchased by the careful horse owner. 

It is the intention of the author to oficr some remarks upon this sim- 
ple but excessively important topic. The comments will be accompanied 



It2 



FOOD. 



with tinted wood engravings, which will help the judgment, though these 
cannot inform the reader on every particular. Therefore, he must kindly 
assist the writer, as few things are more difficult to describe than taste 
or smell ; since these senses are always under the control of individual 
predilection. 




LAD SORTING HAT. 



Upland Hay should look clean. Every fiber should appear distinct. 
The color should be bright and should convey an idea of newness. ISTo 
dust ought to be present ; neither should the sample, however much it 
may have been disturbed, lose its prominent features. The constituents 
will all point pretty much in one direction. Of course this order is not 
so absolute as to appear like arrangement, but the confusion Avhich gen- 
erally marks the fibers of the after-meath is never present in a fair 
sample of well-carried "Upland hay." The scent is commonly very- 
pleasant — not so strong as, but in other respects little different from, the 
perfume of new-mown hay : to most people its odor is highly agreeable. 
Weeds should not be abundant ; but the presence of foreign growths is 
clearly indicated by their darker hue, by the browner tint, and the fuller 
form. The stems should not have shed the seeds, though grasses vary 
so much in the period of their ripening that it is vain to expect some 
will not have broken this rule. When a portion is placed within the 



FOOD. l''^3 

moutli and is masticated, it rather communicates a mila and pleasant 
flavor than yields a strong or pungent taste. In short, cleanness and 
delicacy are the prominent characteristics of "Upland hay;" which some 
growers imagine is scarcely injured by long keeping. New hay is cer- 
tainly objectionable. But the year's growth is wholesome feed by 
November ; and, in the author's judgment, it is best when it first comes 
into use. 




THE CHARACTER AND THE COLOR OF CPLAND HAT. 



Lowland Hay. — This kind of preserved grass lacks the bright color, 
being more tawny than the preceding ; indeed, the absence of the green 
tint is conspicuous, and can hardly fail to be remarked. The arrange- 
ment of the fibers is not so well preserved, neither is the crispness or the 
newness of aspect, for which " Upland hay " is notable, to be remarked 
in the "Lowland truss." The flowering heads to the stems are all but 
absent. When felt, it communicates a sense of softness. If rattled, no 
brisk sound is elicited. It has a stronger and a more .pungent perfume. 




THE CHARACTER AND THE COLOR OP LOWLAND HAY. 



The odor is very far from being so delicate ; neither is the taste char- 
acterized by any pleasantness of flavor. When placed between the 
teeth, mastication communicates a sense of softness and toughness : the 
taste is coarse, almost disagreeable : at first it is vapid, though after a 
short space a certain amount of pungency is developed. The woolly 
texture ; the want of boldness in the component parts ; their comparative 
smallness; with the washed-out aspect of the whole, and the confusion 
of the mass, should prevent a novice even from accepting " Lowland " for 
"Upland hay." 
Rowen or After-meatli presents a greater confusion than even "Low- 



It4 - FOOD. 

land hay." The softness is more conspicuous; flowering heads are only 
occasionally met with ; the stems are few in number, are small in point 
of size, and form no prominent feature of the whole. This species of 
fodder lacks perfume altogether ; but, as regards color, it may have a 
slight greenish tint clinging faintly to it. Still, by its want of the brisk 
or the healthy aspect, and by its darker hue, it is at once recognized for 
the thing it is, — an unseasonable produce, reaped late in the year, and 




A VERT FAIR SAMPLE OF ROWEN OR OF AFIEB-MEATH. 



got up long after the freshness of spring had departed. To the mouth 
it imparts a strong and slightly bitter taste. The odor is not objectiona- 
ble, although it does not approach to a perfume. Horses which have 
been accustomed to the better sort, refuse Rowen, or only accept it after 
actual hunger has been experienced. 

Clover Hay is universally mixed with grass and weeds, A good 
sample of this produce, a novice might easily reject as being too foul a 
specimen for his approval, and the hay of the second crop (which is not 
generally remarkable in that particular) be selected in preference. The 
stems also appear to bear a large proportion to the whole, when compared 




A SPECIMEN OF THE FIRST CROP OF CLOVER UAY 



with the flowers and the leaves. The fact of the stalks being rarely 
viewed in the cloVer field may render this feature the more conspicuous. 
But the stems are hollow, and consequently lose little bulk when dried. 
The flowers and leaves, on the contrary, are juicy ; and no insignificant 
portion of their substance is, apparently, lost during evaporation. In 
the first cut of clover, however, the stems, though numerous, are compara- 
tively fine, and the leaves, though dark, have no tinge of blackness. The 



POOD. 1*75 

flowers are abundant, and faded, of course ; but they still retain indica- 
tions of their original color. Though compressed, they nevertheless 
suggest what has once been their figure. In taste, a marked resemblance 
is recognized between the slight flavor of the hay and the strong aroma 
of the growing plant. 

The Second Crop of Clover is distinguished by the grasses and weeds 
of the first cut being all but absent. The stems are larger, firmer, and 
bear a greater proportion to the whole. The flowers are not so numer- 
ous, and are more dmgy in appearance, as well as apparently less carefully 




THE SECOND CROP OE AFTEK-MEATH OF CLOVEK. 



preserved. Mastication also enables to be recognized a coarser and a 
stronger flavor than characterizes good hay of the spring's harvest. The 
leaves approach near to a black tint. When a truss of the first and one 
of the second crop of clover are placed together, the last appears re- 
markable for depth of color. 

Heated or Mow-burnt Hay is that which has been subjected to such 
uncontrolled fermentation as shall scorch the substance, and, if not 




A VFRT EXCELLENT SAMPLE OF HEATED HAT. 



checked, would ultimately fire the stack. A certain amount of fermenta- 
tion is needful for the development of sound hay, but should the necessary 
action be suffered to proceed too far, "heated or raow-burnt hay" is the 
result. Most horses will eat this kind of fodder with appetite when it is 
first presented ; but after the novelty of the diet has subsided, there are 
few animals which do not apparently loathe such produce. The illustra- 
tion by no means represents the worst specimen which the author has 
encountered, but it is of that medium character which best conveys a just 



116 FOOD. 

idea of a general subject. From this sample, however, certain leaves 
could be chosen that are perfectly black, and which, when attempted to 
be rolled between the fingers, would crumble into powder. Such a 
peculiarity, together with the darkened hue, affords the easiest means of 
recognizing this provender, which, although some silly people by prefer- 
ence employ in their stables, is very far from being a wholesome food for 
horses. Burnt vegetable matter produces potash ; therefore there can be 
no cause to reject, as a groundless prejudice, the assertion that much 
"mow-burnt hay" will occasion diabetes. It has a powerful odor, re- 
sembling the mixed smell which pervades a public hay market ; but the 
taste has little to distinguish it, being somewhat vapid. 

"Weather-beaten Hay is equally devoid of smell or of taste. It has a 
ragged, a confused, and a broken aspect. The hue is deepened ; but the 
color greatly depends upon the period of its exposure, the soil on which 
it has lain, the amount of wet to which it has been subjected, and the 
condition in which it has been "got up." So delicate a produce as care- 




WEATHER-BEATEN HAT. 



fully prepared hay, of course cannot be long exposed to the effects of 
wind and rain without its more choice qualities being deteriorated, while 
to the extent of its deterioration, of course the farmer can oppose no 
check. Therefore a fair general specimen, exhibiting the common char- 
acteristics of the majority of samples, is submitted to the reader ; but it 
cannot be expected that a single illustration should embody the multi- 
form aspects which are generated by diverse and powerful influences 
acting upon a perishable substance. 

Musty Hay is readily recognized by its strong and peculiar smell, 
resembling the refuse which has been employed to stuff articles of cheap 
furniture. This it likewise calls to mind by its rumpled and confused 
appearance. It should never be offered to any animal as a substitute 
even for better food. 

"Upland Hay," as will be seen by the foregoing remarks, is a fair 
general fodder for the horse. To it, however, a portion of clover hay 
should be added ; but this last is best given in the form of chaff. Ready- 
cut chaff should never be purchased, because most persons have extraor- 



FOOD. It*' 

dinary notions as to the ingredients suited for such a form of provender. 
Hay, which the animal refuses to touch when placed in the rack, is often 
salted and cut into chaff. Thus seasoned, and in such a shape being 
mixed with com, it may be eaten. The horse is imposed upon by the 
salt and the oats which were mingled with the trash ; but the sane pro- 
prietor has only to calmly inquire of himself — whether that savor which 
disguises the taste can also change an unwholesome substance into a 
wholesome nutriment? 

It is likewise a prevailing custom to cut straws of different kinds and 
to throw the rubbish into the chaff" bin. Such a practice is spoken of as 
among the improvements of modern horse-feeding. The quadruped may 
consume this species of refuse, but it is, in the author's judgment, not a 
matter for doubt whether such articles merely distend the stomach ot 
whether they can nourish the body. People who advocate cheapness 
may be favorable to the use of straw; but these persons should not 
deceive themselves, far less ought they to impose upon others, by assert- 
ing so exhausted a material can possibly prove a supporting constituent 
of diet. 

Within the stem of the ripened wheat plant no sap circulates. All 
the strength of the growth has gone to the seed. Were not the se'ialess 
stalk cut and preserved by man, it would shortly topple over, and, by 
decay, be mingled with the soil. It is well understood that grass, after 
it has shed its seed, is unsuited for making a nutritious hay. Grain- 
yielding plants are only cultivated grasses ; and the art which has en- 
larged the seed and lengthened the stem cannot pretend also to have 
mastered the laws of nature by having endowed a refuse material with 
nutritious properties. Persons who desire to have straw mingled with 
the manger food of the horse, should take some pains to procure articles 
rightfully prepared. The plants should be mown while green ; be prop- 
erly treated, stacked, and husbanded with more than the care usually 
bestowed on ordmary stems. The same rule should be observed with 
regard to bean stalks, or whatever else is to be severed into lengths, and 
is to be esteemed a fitting food for the horse. 

Thus prepared, the wheat stem might prove worthy the repute which 
is at present bestowed upon its exhausted representative. When har- 
vested after this plan, the stalk would retain all that virtue which, at a 
later season, is expended upon the seed. It would nourish as well as 
distend. Indeed, the popular custom of giving horses that for food 
which adds to the bulk of provender, but does not support the system, 
cannot be too strongly reprobated ; yet such a practice is followed in the 
great majority of existing stables. The animals, to satisfy the cravings 
of appetite, are compelled to devour more than their diminutive stom- 

12 



Its FOOD. 

achs should contain. Over-gorging is likewise promoted by the habit 
of subjecting all kinds of horses to prolonged and unnatural periods of 
abstinence. The consequences of such customs are exemplified in the 
attenuated stomachs of most old subjects. Often this viscus, upon the 
muscular and secretive actions of which the health and the strength are 
dependent, when taken from the body of an animal which has long been 
subjected to the abuses practiced in the modern stables, is of so stretched 
a nature as to be semi-transparent, and sometimes as thin as brown 
paper. 

When a horse returns home, after a long fast, it is most unwise to 
place the famished life before a heaped manger. First attend to its 
immediate requirements. These satisfied, and the harness removed, a 
pail of gruel should be offered to the animal. The writer knows it is 
said by many grooms that their horses will not drink gruel ; the author 
likewise is aware that most servants dislike the bother attendant on its 
preparation, while few understand the manner in which it should be 
prepared. The general plan is to stir a little oatmeal into any pail 
containing hot water, and to offer the mess, under the name of gruel, 
to the palate which long abstinence may have rendered fastidious. The 
horse only displays its intelligence when it rejects the potion thus rudely 
concocted. 

No stable is complete unless its furniture embraces a two-gallon pot, 
and a pail which is kept sacred to cleanly purposes. Then, with regard 
to oatmeal; this substance, as commonly sold by corn-chandlers, and 
some bakers, is positively rank. It is naturally sweeter even than other 
meals ; but, by long keeping, it contracts a pungent and a most unpleas- 
ant taste. To be good, it should be fresh ; and the coarser it is, the finer 
is the gruel which it yields. 

There are few places in London where the oatmeal which is purchased 
can be depended upon. The writer, however, has for several months 
enjoyed, every morning and night, a mess of most excellent porridge, 
made from coarse Scotch or " round " meal procured of Mr. C. Rayment, 
corn-chandler. Queen's Buildings, Knightsbridge. It is so sweet and 
pleasant that the diet requires no "Kitchener," or accompanying condi- 
ment, to recommend it. The preparation is eaten without flavoring; 
and it seems to possess medicinal properties, as under its use the writer 
has lost that yellowness of skin which formerly denoted the liver to be 
deranged, while he is rapidly regaining health, and has entirely discarded 
the employment of drugs. 

One quart of Mr. C. Rayment's Scotch oatmeal should be thrown into 
the two-gallon pot, which is to be gradually filled with boiling water, a 
little cold being first used, merely to divide the grains. The saucepan 



FOOD. 1T9 

IS then placed on the fire, and its contents are to be briskly stirred un^il 
the liquid has boiled for ten minutes. After this, it may be put where 
it will only just simmer ; and, in one hour, the gruel will be ready, or 
in shorter time, should the fire be fierce. The liquid is then poured 
through a sieve, or should the steed be excessively exhausted, the gruel 
may be mixed with one quart of sound ale and with half a pound of 
sugar. The solid part is mingled, while hot, with an equal quantity 
of bran, and this mixture, having been closely covered, is placed in the 
manger half an hour after the gruel has been imbibed. 

Some horses, however, purge when brought home after a long fast. 
Such animals are generally of a loose and weakly constitution. For 
creatures of this description the bran would prove injurious, and an 
additional pint of meal had better be boiled in a quart of water, which, 
when mixed with the solid from which the gruel has been strained, will 
constitute a moist and highly nutritious diet for a delicate horse. The 
author has, for experiment, tried this form of food upon several quad- 
rupeds, which he was assured abhorred everything like mash or gruel ; 
but only in one instance was the preparation not eagerly consumed. In 
the exceptional case it was not entirely rejected, being partly eaten ; but 
the writer suspects the apparently dainty quadruped had been previously 
supplied with a more than usual quantity of oats, as the behavior rather 
testified to want of appetite than denoted any positive dislike of the 
nourishment which was before the animal. 

Besides hay, corn is commonly used in this country as a food for 
horses. The corn of the English stable is almost confined to oats. In 
foreign lands various substances are employed. General, however, as 
the adoption of oats may be in this kingdom, few, very few persons, 
beyond the limits of the corn market, have any distinct notion concern- 
ing this kind of grain. With the vast majority an oat is an oat, and all 
oats are of one kind. In exceptional cases, gentlemen are partial to oats 
of some particular hue. Certain persons will purchase only a black oat; 
another class prefer a full golden tint, to distinguish the kind they favor ; 
while a few admire a whiteness of husk. Such differences, however, 
do not affect the grain ; the colors are limited to the chaff — the kernels 
of all are of one tint. 

The kernel, or the mealy substance of oats, differs in each variety of 
corn. One sample shall be thick in the husk, and possessed of a super- 
abundance of beard ; but the body of such corn will be narrow, also of 
contrasting sizes and of various colors. 

The inferior specimens are commonly mixed with other seeds, with 
pieces of stick and portions of straw, as well as sometimes adulterated 
by the presence of other grain. These oats may impart a saltish flavor 



ISO 



FOOD. 



to the taste; likewise they may have a faint, smoky, or fusty odor. Such 
corn seldom weighs more than twenty-two pounds to the bushel. 





EONISBGRQ OATS. 



PETERSBURG OATS. 



Another sample, of a different country, will rattle briskly as it is 
poured from the bulk into the palm. Such has a clean aspect and 
almost a metallic luster. It is full or plump, being positively beardless, 
and exhibits no more husk than is needed to surround the kernel of such 
grain. When attentively scrutinized, perhaps no specimen of oats will 
be found to be all of one size ; but no very striking inequalities will 
catch the attention, when the better sort are viewed. These are entirely 
tasteless ; and do not even suggest the possibility of a scent appertain- 
ing to them. Com of this quality is too valuable not to be carefully 
harvested ; consequently the hardest pressure of the thumb nail leaves 
no indentation ; while the kernel rather chips than tears asunder, when 
compressed between the teeth. 





BB8T 8C0TCB OATS. 



£NGUSH OATS, FROM CAJfAWAN SEED. 



The absence of beard, however, is not an invariable sign of excel- 
lence : if the weight per bushel be heavy, this feature should not be too 
strongly insisted upon. Some good com is distinguished by a greater 
length of husk than is requisite simply to surround the kernel ; but such 



FOOD. 



181 



atones for this peculiarity by the bulk of the grain. It is true that a 
sample of this kind seldom attains to the highest weight, and the pur- 
chaser loses somewhat by an excess of chaff. 





NEW IKISH FEED OATS. 



FIE8T CLASS SWEDES. 



Yet in England, which country on the continent is esteemed to be a 
land of horses, very few stables are supplied with other grain than that 
of an inferior description. The better kind is bought by the miller and 
the trainer of racers or hunters. The inferiority of most corn, however, 
seems not to disturb domestic tranquillity. The majority of proprietors 
open an account with some neighboring chandler, and the groom is 
empowered to fetch the provender, which the horses are supposed to 
consume. Dealers in grain do not enjoy unsulUed reputations. It is a 
custom with grooms to exact ten or five per cent, on all the master's 
bills which refer to the stable. The gentleman, therefore, always pur- 
chases his fodder very dearly, where such an arrangement exists. 

Oats should never be bought by measurement, but should invariably 
be purchased by weight. A prime sample will weigh forty-eight pounds 
to the bushel; whereas the author has heard of, although he does not 
pretend to have seen, oats so very light that the same bulk was only 
equivalent to sixteen pounds. However, a grain which is professed 
merely to reach twenty -two pounds is to be met with in every market. 

The difference of weight should be more than accompanied by an 
equivalent diminution of price: because a prime oat of forty-eight 
pounds will yield thirty-six pounds of pure grain, after the chaff has 
oeen removed. A fair oat gives half its weight of kernel; but an ex- 
cellent sample will afford three-quarters of its entire weight in prime 
nutritious substance; whereas a poor specimen will produce no more 
than eight pounds of clean corn to the bushel measure ! 

Consequently, supposing a choice sample to sell for thirty-six shil- 
fings, the inferior article can be worth only eight shillings the quarter ; 
for no man can esteem the husk as a food suitable for any living creat- 



1»2 FOOD. 

ure, nor vvould any person purchase sucli utter refuse, even at the frac- 
tion of a penny per pound. Cheapness, in such particulars, is therefore 
very far from the truest economy. 

Most chandlers do not keep the better specimens of oats. With the 
majority, thirty-six pounds is about the prime standard. As a proof of 
the correctness of the above assertion, the author, a few months ago, 
visited a friend, and being grieved to see that the best price was paid 
for an inferior oat, he purposed to call on all the neighboring dealers in 
corn, inquiring for grain of only forty pounds weight. Even this the 
writer was unable to obtain — all naming thirty-six pounds as the gravity 
of the highest article which they had in stock. The gentleman, there- 
fore, who determines to procure only the choicest corn, must purchase 
of some large and respectable retail dealer. Should any chandler assert 
the impossibility of his obtaining the heavier kind of grain, let the gen- 
tleman at once seek some tradesman who has deaMngs at the Corn 
Exchange, where any quantity of any species of grain can at all times 
be secured, without further trouble than usually attends upon business 
transactions. 




HEAVY AND LIGHT OATS AS BACH LIES IN THE MEASURE. 

The animal is doubly defrauded where poor corn is served out by 
measure. The grain, in the first place, contains less nourishment; in 
the next place, the solid bulk is not the same; because the husks not 
only occupy more space, for, by acting as props to one another, fre- 
quently clear cavities are formed. Therefore, were the light and the 
heavy corns, required to fill a given measure, to be counted, probably 
no vast difference would be discovered in their number. The reader 
must, however, himself determine how far it is possible for a horse to 
be cheated, without the master suffering from the fraud in its effect. 

Further injury is inflicted by permitting the quadruped to consume 
only an inferior corn. Whoever will carefully examine the drawings of 
oats given in the present division of the book, can hardly fail to remark 
that the denuded kernels appear of a size disproportioned to that repre- 
sented as the dimensions of the perfect grain. The microscope makes 
plain the source of this apparent disparity. The epidermis or the 
covering of the kernel is coated with numerous fine hairs, which are too 
small to be perceptible to the unaided vision. These hairs are closely 



FOOD. 



183 



compressed when surrounded by the natural envelope; but when re- 
leased from the husk, the hairs expand, and thus occasion the naked eye 
to behold something far too large for the case fi-om which it has re- 
cently been released. 




A MAGNIFIED ENGLISH OAT. 



In the inferior sorts, the hairs are rather longer, and likewise more 
numerous, than in the better kind of corn ; while, of course, the covering, 
according to th'e smallness of the grain, becomes serious, when regarded 
as a proportionate weight of the whole. These diminutive hairs are 
perfectly indigestible and entirely indestructible when taken into the 
stomach. The peristaltic action releases them from the surface of the 
kernel ; being set free, they are frequently felted together by the moist- 
ure and rolling motion of the stomach. However small the hairs may 
be separately, nevertheless by their union they form masses of immense 
size, provoking such serious impactment as often leads to a terrible and 




niiUSTRA'FIONS or the cat HAIR CALCULUS. COPIED EROM THE INTERESTING WORK ON CONCRETIONS, 
BT PROFESSOR MORTON. 

1. A section of an Oat Hair Calculus. 2. Magnified hairs, mixed with crystals of the phosphates. 
\ Hairs, further magnified. 4. Hairs, so enlarged as to display their bulbous insertions and curved 
forms. 



a fatal issue. A further reason, therefore, exists for employing good 
grain in the possibility of such accumulations, the true nature of which 



184 



FOOD. 



was first pointed out by Professor Morton, and by that learned gentle- 
man these concretions were appropriately designated Oat Hair Calculi. 

It has long been known that digestion is promoted by crushing the 
corn before placing it in the manger. This custom, as a part of the 
proper process, cannot be too highly commended. But careless horse 
owners sometimes purchase the stable provender in a crushed state, or 
send to have this process performed elsewhere than on their own prem- 
ises. Such habits are strongly objected to ; the horse is surrounded by 
so much dishonesty, that a prudent man is not justified in trusting the 
animal's food to the possibility of exchange or of adulteralion. 

To convey to the reader a definite notion of the very different charac- 
ters impressed upon various samples of oats, the following illustrations 
of a few of those which were kindly supplied by a wholesale firm, trans- 
acting business at the Corn Exchange, are here presented. 





IRISH OATS. BLEACHED. 



SCOTCH OATS. SECOND QUALITY. 





KILN-DRIED DANISH OATS. 



FINLAND BLACK OATS. 



A horse owner should invariably have all com crushed and chaff cut 
on his premises. The necessary machines are well known, and will soon 
repay their cost. New grain will not break or crush, but will rather 
leave the mill flattened or bruised. Com of this description is easily 
told by its being soft and yielding; also by its retaining the mark made 



FOOD. 185 

by the pressure of the thumb nail. Should that test not be perfectly- 
satisfactory, a convincing proof is soon obtained by placing the suspected 
grain between the teeth. A sound oat should be dry and hard: it 
should almost chip asunder, and not be torn or broken into pieces by 
compression. In the autumn months, great care is needed to procure 
sound corn; the non-professional purchaser is, perhaps, best protected, 
when he deals for such an article with responsible trades-people, who, in 
their business, have a character to sacrifice. 




ENGUSH FEED. 



It is a custom to expel the moisture from new grain by drying it in a 
kiln. It is thereby, in some degree, improved ; but it cannot be said to 
be rendered as wholesome as sound corn, hardened by the natural pro- 
cess. Moreover, oats badly harvested or damaged by wet are frequently 
placed in the kiln, where they are exposed to the sulphur, in order to 
change or amend their color. The husks, however, at the conclusion of 
the process, are seldom all of one tint. If closely examined, indications 
of the original defect may be discovered on some grains, while others 
will be of an unnatural whiteness. Kiln-dried oats sometimes betray a 
shriveled aspect on that part which is near to the beard, such puckering 
being occasioned by the sudden expulsion of much dampness from the 
interior. The best test, however, is the rapid rubbing of the sample 
between the palms of the heated hands; when, should sulphur have 
been employed, its peculiar odor will be developed. 

The author has been thus careful in describing the signs which 
declare the presence of sulphur, because that mineral, although much 
employed by ordinary farriers, can occasion the most terrible belly-ache, ' 
gripes, fret, or spasms. This affection is one of the most fearful to which 
the horse is subject, and is the more to be dreaded, as it too often leads 
to other complications. Perhaps a greater number of animals annually 
perish through causes resulting from spasms, than die under any other 
squiue ailment. 



186 



FOOD. 



Healthy corn, having been bruised, is not even then properly prepared 
for the equine digestion. The stomach of the horse is a delicate mem- 
braneous sac, which is easily perforated or ruptured. It has no provi- 
sion suited to digest hard corn, neither are the teeth of the animal fitted 
to masticate so resistant a substance. Unlike the similar organs in man, 
the equine tooth is destined to wear by attrition, and anything calculated 
to hasten that process equally diminished the existence of the animal. 
The inappropriateness of the stable and its food must be the reason why 
English horses are so lamentably short lived. The quadruped was, ac- 
cording to the briefest calculation, designed to exist for forty years ; but 
the majority in this country cease to breathe before they attain the sixth 
birthday. How much money is thereby sacrificed ! How much bar- 
barity is by this lamentable mortality proved to exist I What a terrible 
amount of unmerited abuse must be yearly perpetrated ! What a lack 
of appreciation of the Creator's goodness is exemplified by the cruelty 
which thus shortens the duration of His choicest gift to the human 
race 1 

Prior to the grain being placed before the horse, it should be softened. 
Where a building is heated by steam, the accomplishment of this would 
always be at command. Let each feed of corn and every portion of hay, 
whether cut into chaff or not, be cooked by being exposed to the action 
of the vapor for a couple of hours. Moisture, in the form of steam, is 




APPAKATUS FOR PEEPAEINQ HOESES' FOOD. 

a a. Pipes, having stop-cocka to regulate the steam and to allow it to circulate when the boiler is not 
employed. 
&&,&&. An iron pot, having a close-fitting lid, but pierced to admit the steam pipes, 
cc. A shifting interior case, made with a perforated bottohi. 

dd. A. layer of straw or of hay to prevent the crushed grain clogging the openings. 
tee. The broken corn undergoing the process of being prepared. 
f. A small tap to drain off the condensed fluid. 



known to be very penetrating ; and the ingredients of the manger, when 
thus prepared, are always more relished than in the raw condition, while 
the liquid which drains from the provender will prove a highly grateful 
and a most nutritious beverage to the tired quadruped. 

Hard substances taken into the stomach of a horse are well known to 



FOOD. 181 

derange the animal's system — a fact which has long been proved to the 
horse-copers and other rogues who live by imposition. A pound of shot 
will, for a time, conceal the peculiar breathing characteristic of broken 
wind, though this temporary escape from an outward symptom of dis- 
ease is often followed by disastrous consequences. Hard grain, if fired 
from a rifle, would prove no contemptible missile ; much of it is bolted 
by the quadruped before which it is cast, and consequently passes out 
of the body undigested. The actions of sparrows and the luxuriant 
green crops which often adorn the tops of dunghills are both evidences 
of the waste attending the ordinary mode of feeding. 

General, all but universal, as the employment of oats may be in this 
kingdom, very few of Her Britannic Majesty's subjects have the remotest 
idea of the use which this corn subserves in the animal economy. Drivers 
will stop, when proceeding upon long journeys, and order their nags large 
feeds of oats, to enable them to complete the distance, or, in other words, 
to aid the muscular power. Corn, however, is now ascertained to gen- 
erate only fat, which rather detracts from than favors the development 
of motor energy. It certainly sounds strangely, after the expenditure 
of millions of money, after ages of experience, and after the training of 
horses was thought to have been fostered into a science, to hear it 
broadly asserted that the purpose and end attained by the administra- 
tion of England's favorite feed for horses is totally mistaken ! Such, 
however, is the unvarnished truth ; the gallops or the sweats that fre- 
quently injure animals while in training are no more than the efforts of 
ignorance to remove those consequences which its own acts have occa- 
sioned. They are attempts to get rid of the fat, which the employment 
of much corn has naturally produced. 

Besides oats, however, beans are used in the best stables ; but there 
is much dispute as to the quantity which a horse can advantageously 
consume. The English field bean should always be hardened by age 




ENGLISH BEANS — A GOOD SAMPLE. 



before it is suited for the manger ; even then, it should be prepared ; for 
a substance which, when rattled in a measure, emits a sound like to that 
produced by so many pebbles striking one against the other, can hardly 
be in a condition proper for comminution between most sensitive and 
highly -organized members. They should be crushed and subjected to 



188 



FOOD. 



the action of steam, which will, in a couple of hours, remove the objec- 
tionable quality without reducing them to a watery mass. 

Horse beans, as grown in England, however, are very coarse and 
astringent substances. No wonder if the large employment of such pro- 
duce is found to act upon the bowels ; surprise should be expressed if so 




ENOI.ISB BEAKS — A BAD SAMPLE. 



harsh a food could be consumed without inducing constipation. The 
Egyptian bean, nevertheless, is free from such objectionable properties. 




EGTFTIAN BEANS — ^A GOOD SAMPLE. 



being mild and sweet. The author thinks a larger quantity of this 
crushed and moistened seed might be with benefit presented to the ani- 
mal. As at present imported, however, it is very imperfectly harvested. 
Most samples exhibit the shriveled and the discolored skin, which de- 




EGYPTLiN BEANS — A BAD SAMPLE. 



notes the sickle was resorted to before the plant was matured — an error 
perfectly inexcusable in a climate which is for nine months of the year 
free from rain. 

Might not some sound Egyptian beans be procured ; from these could 
not a milder and better species of bean be raised in this country ? TJie 



FOOD. 189 

field pea is open to the same condemnation ; but field peas are not gen- 
erally employed in stables. Those used for horses are small and white, 
of foreign growth, and quite unobjectionable. Tares are given only to 
farm teams ; but if this plant possesses only a tithe part of those virtues 
for which it is accredited, its employment might be advantageously ex- 
tended. Why should hay be made only of grass which, though admirable 
sustenance for the bovine tribe, evidently is not equally suited to the 
equine species ? The dropsy of the abdomen and legs it induces in nags, 
together with the foulness of coat which it engenders, are perhaps the 
best evidence of the injury that attends the long employment of green 
grass, or even of hay, as a solitary sustenance. 

Might not beans, peas, and other leguminous substances be sown 
broadcast, and mown when in flower ? Hay thus produced would be 
of all value in the stable, because grass, like corn, whether exhibited 
green or dry, simply induces fat; whereas leguminous plants all favor 
the development of muscular fiber or support the strength of the body. 
Such hay might be charged a little higher ; but then its deeding value 
and its worth as a promoter of condition would far more than recompense 
any extra money at which it might be charged. 

It may be asked why, if hay produces fat, are the horses of the poor 
so lamentably lean, since such quadrupeds receive little else than hay to 
sustain them ? The reasons are numerous. The hay such horses obtain 
is not often of a good quahty; and it is to be feared the stuff is not, 
frequently, presented in sufficient quantity to promote obesity. Besides, 
this substance leaves the muscular power unrefreshed. The frame being 
exhausted by a life passed in exertion, the body's weakness effectually 
counteracts all tendency to fatten. 




A MAGNIFIED MUSTY OAT. 



Beans are not known to be much exposed to deterioration ; but oats 
are liable to an affection of the epidermis or of the skin, which causes 
them to be covered with little granules of a dark color, which the mi- 
croscope discovers to be fungoid growths resembling a species of very 
minute toadstools. Corn, when in this condition, is readily recognized 
by a very powerful musty smell ; and the grain, of course, is not adapted 



190 



FOOD. 



to nourish any animal. Musty provender is supposed to engender worms 
and other unpleasantnesses ; but the author is disposed to attribute the 
production of the parasites to a want of resistance in the system, which 
may be inherited, or spring from a sickly state of the body, or which may 
be produced by the consumption of unwholesome diet. 

Another advantage which is attendant on the employment of heat 
and moisture is that, by its operation, the unwholesome nature of food, 
if not absolutely corrected, is greatly ameliorated. The horse proprietor 
is thus, in some measure, protected from those accidents to which every 
stable is liable where a stud-groom does not preside over the establish- 
ment, or where the owner is not remarkable for activity. The benefit 
resulting from heat may, in a certain measure, be secured where no 
steaming apparatus exists ; but then two stout closely-shutting boxes of 
galvanized iron and a scoop, together with a large kettle, are required. 




MACEEATINQ BOX AND SCOOP. 



The food is placed in one of the receptacles ; then so much boiling 
water should be poured upon it as experience has ascertained will be 
entirely absorbed. This done, the lid is closed, and the confined steam 
will partially cook the provender. The need for two boxes is to allow 
the hay, chafl", or grain to remain for a longer period subjected to the 
moisture, so that these substances may be thoroughly softened. This, 
however, is a more troublesome method, and the mode does not equal, 
in its results, the employment of steam where the vapor can be com- 
manded ; but, whichever practice is adopted, the following regulations 
should always be observed when the horses are fed. 

The mangers intended for the reception of softened provender must 
be of a peculiar construction. The feeding compartment should possess 
a lid, which may be let down when the manger is removed. This last 
should always be taken out of the stable after it has been emptied ; the 
interior should, at each removal, be thoroughly cleansed. The form of 



FOOD. 191 

the receptacle should, in some measure, resemble a large pudding dish, 
and should offer no sharp angles, where the moist provender may ac- 
cumulate and turn unpleasantly acid. A broad rim should surround the 
hollow, into which rim should be let two movable handles, the use of 
which is to expedite the manger being carried from place to place. The 
substance ought to consist of galvanized iron, but the interior may ad- 
vantageously be coated with enamel. 




IKON DISH OB MOVABLE MANGER FOR HORSES' FOOD, 



Such an article, when placed in the wooden frame adapted to receive 
it, would be supported by its rim and kept by its own weight in the 
proper situation. When taken thence, it ought to be carried to the 




GIVINQ OUT THE MACERATED FOOD. 



pump and cleansed, after which it is lodged in the provender house. 
When feeding time comes round, two helpers or stable-boys wheel two 



192 



FOOD. 



barrows to the door of the building and there wait. The head groom, 
attended by two others, enters the room, and with the scoop serves out 
the provender, each groom by turns holding a manger to be filled. 

As the basins are loaded, these are arranged on the barrows ; when 
the macerating box has been emptied, the grooms and helpers proceed 
upon their rounds. As each barrow stops before a door, the man who 
wheels it goes to the outside of the building, and, pulling a string, 
thereby raises the lid of the manger. He next proceeds to the entrance, 
and, having undone the fastenings, stands ready to admit the groom on 
his approach. This being done, the lower half is closed, and only 
opened again to allow of the groom's egress. 







CARRYING THE FOOD ROUND TO THE STABLES. 



Where a horse, of a known restless or ravenous habit, is confined, an 
external slide affords the means of supplying food. The manger, in such 
a box, should be replaced after it has been cleansed; for, as it is then 
empty, the food cannot be lost in consequence of the impatient hunger 
or of the nervousness of the animal. When the feeding hour comes 
round, the lid of the receptacle having been raised by pulling at the 
string, the shutter is lifted up and the provender shot through the open 
space. The steamed oats and chaff are not absolutely wet. The con- 
dition is rather less sticky than the same bulk of brewers' grains. The 
substance, therefore, would readily fall down into the manger; but, as 
this mode necessitates that the incline be constantly scraped and cleaned, 



FOOD. 193 

it is not, because extra trouble is enforced by it, recommended for general 
adoption. 

Thus, without that excitement, delay, and ill humor which too fre- 
quently distinguishes feeding time in large establishments, each horse 
may be speedily supplied. All needed is a little drilling by the head 
groom, so each man may understand his office : that when fulfilling it, 
no one may obstruct the path of his fellow. The steaming or macera- 
tion of food may, by certain readers, be imagined to have originated 
in a desire to write pretty about horses. The author denies such a 
motive. Besides, the plan has no pretense to originality. It has for 
many years been practiced : but not in high-class stables. The writer, 
however, had an inducement, in truth, to recommend its general adop- 
tion, and, therefore, to some portion of the implied charge he may plead 
"guilty." 

All horse owners bitterly complain of the expense involved in the 
support of an animal. Nor is this surprising, when it is considered that 
one-half of its provender passes through the body of the animal undi- 
gested, being no more than so much material literally wasted ; while a 
great portion of the remainder, though dearly purchased, is absolutely 
without nutriment. As a matter of economy, nothing should be placed 
in the manger which is not fit to be appropriated, or is not proper to 
nourish the strength. Such is the purpose of food : that is not food 
which does not feed, although, like the clay balls of the American Indian, 
it may be swallowed under the promptings of appetite ; for when received 
into the stomach, like the substance alluded to, it probably will engender 
disorder. 

Improper articles, therefore, presented as food, are in a double sense 
extravagant. In the first place, they do not sustain the life; in the 
second place, they entail the expense and loss of service which are 
il^separable from disease. Whether with horse or with man, every- 
thing offered as food should do more than merely appease the appetite. 
Unless it also uphold the vigor, devouring it is to waste the substance ; 
and whatever adapts provender to the requirements of the digestion, 
cannot in reason be esteemed either extravagant or unnecessary. Of 
course, prepared food entails trouble. It cannot be forked into a rack 
or tossed into a manger speedily and without soil to the garments. 
There are plenty of reasons why grooms should cling to "hard meat;" 
and why this class of servants should object to prepared fodder. 

Grooms, however, as generally treated, are most exceptionable domes- 
tics. Other servants are occupied throughout the day. The stable 
attendant turns the key upon the day's duties at six o'clock in the 
evening. He is the most wasteful and costly of all the servants in or 

13 



194 FOOD. 

about the house. He wastes even that which Heaven has supph'ed in 
the greatest abundance. He wastes the air; since, to obtain warmth, 
he will not permit the horse to breathe other than atmosphere contami- 
nated by the creature's excretions. He wastes the quadruped's strength ; 
since he works it out of season, and is pleased to view the limbs, when 
not in action, "cribbed and confined" within the narrow limits of a stall. 
He upholds every abuse. He is opposed to every improvement. The 
sum which a fashionable groom costs his master is not to be estimated 
by the money paid to the individual as wages. 

Hay, oats, and beans constitute the horse's daily sustenance. These 
articles are quickly measured out, and do not soil the hand which appor- 
tions them. No doubt the groom will resist any change in so convenient 
a diet ; but the subject, as it at present stands, concerns the liking of 
no person. It simply involves a moral duty. Nature has sent food in 
abundance and in variety. Is man justified, when he opposes nature's 
obvious intention ? When he first imprisons a life, and then dooms it to 
subsist for the period of its being on a monotony of provender, does he 
act rightly or wisely? What motive can be urged strong enough to 
warrant the pigmy in placing his insignificance between the creature 
and the liberality of the Creator ? 

Horses are not confined to England. Elsewhere the quadrupeds thrive 
on other food than hay, oats, and beans. The Arab, which stands first 
among the tribe, and is by some writers recognized as the original of the 
species, thrives on barley and on chopped straw. The American breed 
rarely taste oats, being fed on Indian-corn ; as, Hkewise, are many ani- 
mals inhabiting the south of Germany. Damaged wheat is eaten by 
agricultural teams all over the world. Rye is given as a supporting 
diet, when long journeys are traveled in Russia. In India, the cavalry 
charger exists chiefly on a grain called "gram." In Ireland, the general 
feed is raw potatoes. In Iceland, dried fish is employed as provender ; 
while during the needy period of the Crimean campaign, the English 
horses devoured the tails of their stable associates. 

England, however, can supply or can import all the articles enumer- 
ated. Why, therefore, are oats preferred as the fittest food for horses? 
The kernel of this grain is covered by a solid coat of chaff. That chaff 
adds to the weight of the corn, and is charged to the purchaser as so 
much nutritious matter. It is not supporting; but it occupies space 
when first taken into the stomach. That space allows the dried kernels 
to swell without occasioning inconvenience to the animal ; for the same 
moisture which enlarges the oat, also softens the husk, &jid allows it to 
be compressed with little absolute force. 

As dry food, given separately, oats no doubt are the most wholesome 



FOOD. 195 

provender for horses. Barley, rye, or wheat, if dry, would require a pro 
portion of chaff to be mixed with those grains, so as to render either of 
them safe. Few things are more common in agricultural districts, than 
for animals to be injured by eating the latter kind of food. Quadrupeds 
often break loose, and gorge upon wheat ; when the cereal, swelling after 
it has been swallowed, not unseldom ruptures the stomach and destroys 
the life. All dried grain should be moistened before it is placed in the 
manger. When properly soaked, barley, wheat, or rye are more whole- 
some than oats. Mingled with chaff, they are quite as beneficial, even 
when administered in the dried state. They are, moreover, when re- 
garded in the view of weight for weight of nutriment, far cheaper than 
the vast majority of England's favorite provender. 

Might not the ship biscuit, which is now used only as a food for dogs, 
be profitably employed in the stable ? It contains no husk. Its surface 
is not surrounded by dangerous hairs. It is all nutriment ; and, being 
slightly moistened by the action of steam, would doubtless be consumed 
with avidity, after the first distaste, natural to timidity, had been over- 
come. This species of provender would be cheaper than the raw, hard, 
and unprepared grain, which might with advantage be superseded by 
crushed biscuit mingled with a proportion of chaff. 

The action of heat is well known to change the nature of corn, while 
fermentation converts the starch of the raw seed into sugar. Might not 
a coarse kind of bread be made for the stable ? This is no whim of the 
author's imagination. Such a plan is common throughout Germany, 
where it is not unusual to see a carter feeding himself and steed off the 
same loaf. The groom might possibly resist such an innovation upon 
his rights and leisure ; but a better order of dependents could be found, 
to whom the extra labor would merely prove a pastime. 

Besides bread and biscuits, there are various roots which might prove 
very acceptable to a vegetable eater. The digestion of all such articles 
is promoted by the substances being cooked before they are presented. 
The fire extracts much of the water with which they all abound ; heat 
also, in some measure, arrests the tendency to ferment. Why should 
such simple and natural food be denied to the creature which nature has 
sent upon this earth with an appetite fitted to consume it ? There is 
ample room for choice in the list which has been indicated ; so far as 
experiment has hitherto tested the value of such articles of food for 
horses, results have been obtained which seem to say the change might 
be generally adopted without danger, 

A sameness of diet is known to derange the human stomach. Under 
such a system, the palate loses its relish, while a loathing is excited 
•vhich destroys appetite. How often do grooms complain of certain 



l'^6 FOOD. 

animals being bad feeders ! May not such disinclination for sustenance 
be no more than the disgust engendered by a constant absence of variety ? 
Is there any large stable in the kingdom where one or more quadrupeds 
are not equally notorious for being ravenous feeders ? The disinclination 
for the necessary sustenance and the morbid desire for an excess of nutri- 
ment are alike symptoms of deranged digestion. Some horses will devour 
large quantities of earth, — stones, worms, and all. Other animals will, 
if not muzzled, consume the litter of their stalls, no matter how tainted 
or filthy it may be. Strange tastes and unnatural likings are not unfre- 
quently displayed by the inhabitants of the stable, among which, the 
instances cited are only the most common, all such whims being declara- 
tive of a diseased stomach. 

The stable, its management, its formation, and its food, do further 
injury than merely to derange the digestion. Such may be its primary 
effect; but the stomach is to the animal as the root is to the plant. 
Through it all the nourishment is absorbed. By its healthful operation, 
the trunk, limbs, and strength are maintained. The rootlets cannot be 
diseased without the remotest twigs drooping and withering. So the 
deranged digestion induced by the modern stable leads to those fearful 
results which render life valueless; and which would terminate the 
existence, were the event not anticipated by the office of the knacker. 
Cribbing, weaving, quidding, surfeit, inflamed thorax, bowel complaints, 
broken wind, glanders, diseases of the legs and of the feet, with the ma- 
jority of those injuries which are complacently recognized as accidents, 
may all be directly traced to that domestication which assumes a right 
to dictate how a life shall exist ; the atmosphere it shall breathe ; the 
space it shall occupy; and the substances it shall eat. Heaven, when 
this earth was first inhabited, did not create beings without investing 
them with rights, which man cannot abrogate at his convenience or set 
aside at his pleasure. 

Of late years a class of traders has sprung up who profess to sell 
"patent foods," or nostrums, which are to be cast into the manger with 
the corn. The economy and the marvelous effects of these secret prep- 
arations are loudly trumpeted ; and from the numbers who now deal in 
such articles, these persons evidently find many customers. The mix- 
tures consist of certain seeds and spices, which, in consequence of a 
relish being given to the monotony of manger diet, are eagerly de- 
voured. They may even stimulate a false appetite ; but, after a time, 
this effect will cease, and a loathing greater than the previous excite- 
ment will succeed. It is not, therefore, with surprise that the author 
hears of people, once very enthusiastic admirers of such additions, hav- 
ing, after some experience, I'elinquished these foreign aids to provender. 



FOOD. 197 

After all, "patent foods" contain matter which is as old as the hills. 
Grooms and coachmen have, for a longer period than is to be reached by 
the memory of man, had a confiding faith in certain charms, or nostrums. 
Such innocent people have long held secrets for working wonders — 
either by improving the coat, promoting condition, or creating spirit, etc. 
These mysteries were made up either as balls or powders. So general 
was this practice that certain veterinary surgeons kept particular articles 
solely to meet the demands of such customers. These ingredients, 
which were always retailed to ignorant people, late in the evening and 
with much secrecy, are, in very many cases, even to particulars, the 
same as are now the advertised "Blessings to Horse Owners." There 
is, however, this difference : such things are, at present, purchased by 
the proprietor, whereas they formerly were secretly procured by the 
servant. The master esteems it commendable in him to administer such 
stuffs to his animals; whereas, a few years ago, the retainer was as- 
suredly dismissed from his situation, if not punished, who was detected 
mixing any substance with the provender of his horses. 

With regard to quantity in the matter of diet. All animals are not 
of one size, neither have all horses the same capacity of stomach. It is 
usual to measure out so much corn as the allowance proper for a horse, 
and to toss the quantity into the manger, without paying any attention 
to the desires of the creature. Such a custom may be extremely con- 
venient ; but it is very wasteful. Horses differ quite as much as men do 
in their appetites. By the common practice, one animal receives more 
than it requires, while another gets less than satisfies its cravings. Some 
slight notice of the body's necessities should be insisted upon in those 
who pretend to comprehend the quadruped ; and a master should in- 
struct the servant that a creature endowed with life cannot be justly 
regarded as a manufacturing machine. 

Then, as to the times of feeding. The horse is essentially a creature 
of the night. Man may shake up the straw and lock the stable door; 
but he does not, therefore, put the quadruped to sleep. Long hours of 
watchfulness are apt to generate habits of mischief, as well as lead to 
many indulgences which are no more than the results of want of em- 
ployment, or the absence of amusement. The solitary confinement, 
now popular in prisons, in workhouses, and in some schools, is evidently 
wrong in principle ; more especially wrong is it, when practiced upon 
children, as loneliness, acting upon immaturity of intelligence, invariably 
leads to an evil desire, which is, in penal prisons, spoken of as "break- 
ing out." 

The horse has to pass twelve hours of weary time awake, without 
food and without supervision. Why should not one feed, at least, be 



19?5 FOOD. 

given lute at night ? The present custom, of allowing the stable-man 
his time after six o'clock, is not beneficial to the servant; nor is it 
advantageous to a master. It merely encourages habits which are 
expensive. Expensive habits are not commendable or innoxious, where 
the weekly income is reckoned by shillings. A little more of whole- 
some employment would greatly improve the stable-retainer. The man 
is now corrupt ; but those who suffer by his vices, expose him to that 
temptation which subverts the uprightness of his inclinations. After 
six, is a better hour for equine exercise than during the heat of the 
afternoon. Subsequent to the setting of the summer's sun, during the 
cool, moist time of twilight, the quadruped would delight in being 
abroad; but, during the hours when nature formed her creature to 
roam, man, for a servant's convenience, imprisons his slave; and, 
having perverted every intent or purpose of its existence, complains 
aloud because the laws of Creation are not made subservient to his 
perversity I 

Could society be rendered a trifle more sympathetic and a little less 
conceited, horses would largely benefit by such a change in the disposi- 
tions of their masters. But this cannot be with present thoughts and 
existing institutions. The modern age essentially delights in knowing ; 
it rather sneers at, than cultivates, feeling. England abounds in 
schools, and is thickly strewn with colleges. Education is much 
lauded; but the education at present given neglects the higher and 
the better part of the pupil's mind. Everywhere knowledge is incul- 
cated ; nowhere is feeling cultivated. Nay, in the majority of existing 
educational establishments, the sensations are blunted and the emotions 
suppressed. Yet to elevate the feelings of its followers, is the purpose 
and the object of Christianity. Reverends and Dignitaries preside over 
places where, under pretense of being properly trained, youths are un- 
christianized. Most young men quit their tutors with the knowledge 
quickened ; but where is the being who began life with the heart im- 
proved, or with the moral sense to guide him through the many obliga- 
tions he was newly called to discharge, upon his becoming a member of 
this world's society? The horse especially suffers under the conse- 
quences which result from the present evil tendency of the community. 
To talk of the feelings, the instincts, and the inclinations of the quad- 
ruped, is to earn a character for maudlin affectation. The populace in 
the public highways hourly stare at or carelessly pass spectacles which, 
were the general mind really educated to understand what is before it, 
should awaken the keenest commiseration ; but which are now viewed 
as sights that enliven the prospect. Whence is derived such hardness 
of heart ? Whence springs such general and such a deep-rooted insen- 



FOOD. i99 

sibility? No man seems capable of interposing a voice of erpostula- 
tion, when the streets display living and feeling flesh creeping toward 
its early grave ; when he beholds the animal driven slowly to death ; 
when he looks upon an animated being, so worn and so dejected that it 
is the last office of humanity to summon the knacker to end a hopeless 
misery. The existence of a Society, with two constables, poorly coun- 
terbalances a national display of spurs and of whips. The foremost 
humanitarian, so the skin be whole, can afford to gaze upon a lean and 
spiritless horse, tired beyond man's most exaggerated conception of 
fatigue, slowly creeping before some over-burdened cart, while the 
driver, whip in hand, adds his weight to the disproportionate load. 
Misery in front, brutality behind, and hard-heartedness around ; while 
a fellow -inhabitant of earth totters onward to its death ! 

Yet, how universal is the lamentation about "the instability of the 
horse's health," and "the uncertainty of equine lifel" Knowing what 
stables are, and having learned the air, the food, and the exercise 
allowed to maintain a horse's existence, is there any just occasion for 
appealing to sympathy, because a life, maltreated in every essential, 
generally droops before the fate which abuse provoked? Forced into 
early toil ; never seen abroad without the goad by its side ; worked to 
the point of convenience, and nourished according to the dictates of 
economy, — is it wonderful that the majority of horses perish before 
their youth is matured? Is it not rather a justifiable reason for sur- 
prise that a country should boast of its morality, should exalt its civili- 
zation, should vaunt its Christian feeling — and, nevertheless, that its 
inhabitants should tacitly combine to practice the grossest inhumanity 
upon the meekest type of earthly sensibility ? 



CHAPTER VI. 

THE EVILS WHICH ARE OCCASIONED BY MODERN STABLES. 

Those gentlemen who have deeply studied such subjects, assert that 
man is incapable of originating a single idea. Certainly an intelligent 
being would not have been required to originate anything if, when in- 
tending to confine an active animal, he had been expected to credit the 
joyous creature with the common attributes of life. It could have 
evinced no excessive servility if, before the building was raised for such 
a purpose, nature and her requirements had been, in some slight meas- 
ure, considered. 

It obviously is folly for mortal pride to contend against those ordiniza- 
tions which govern the universe. However, in the case of exercising 
power over the horse, centuries of defeat and ages of loss seem incapable 
of causing mankind to relinquish a hopeless struggle. The strife has 
been going forward almost from the commencement of time ; neverthe- 
less, human beings, though always beaten, press onward to perpetuate 
the contest. They scorn to retreat, and will suffer rather than own a 
victor ; they will not, to make an advantageous peace, desert a silly cus- 
tom or discard an ancient usage. They can sustain punishment ; they 
can endure chastisement; but, like land crabs, when once upon the 
march, they cannot deviate from the line which they have adopted. 
They can abuse the master, but they cannot listen to the instructor. 
"Nature," men exclaim in chorus, "is very stubborn." "Horse prop- 
erty," respond another gang of culpables, "is particularly hazardous!" 

All this noise, however, might at any moment be avoided, would the 
human race only stoop to employ a little reflection. Would man not 
fight quite so obstinately, but merely think over the cause of combat, 
he might possibly be a gainer in happiness as well as in pocket. Could 
he only condescend to admit the horse is a living creature, he would 
take a step toward his recognition of the truth, because a fact would 
have been acknowledged. This being granted, then let mortals, in their 
collective capacity, decide in what the lowest proof of life — mere animal 
existence — does prominently consist. 

It does not require any vast expenditure of thought to discover that 
C200) 



EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 201 

life is action; "to be," is synonymous with "to do;" therefore it is a 
sheer necessity of existence that an animated being must be doing some- 
thing. Such is the primary consequence of existence. Thus, to breathe 
and to move, imply one act; since, if the lungs cease to dilate, respira- 
tion immediately terminates, and, with it, animation comes to an end. 
Yet it remained for mortal perversity to rebuke the first principle of estab- 
lished philosophy, when stables were built in which a breathing animal 
was to be treated as it were an inanimate chattel. 

Nature, like a kind mother, is to this day endeavoring to teach her 
wayward children a plain truth, which they may hourly behold enforced 
by visible examples. The willful brood appears to be in no hurry to 
learn. Man still treats the horse as though he honored the quadruped 
by enslaving it, and ennobled a life by conferring upon the animal the 
title of his servant. He acts as though, by such conduct, sufficient rea- 
son was exhibited why he should oblige the creature to resign its instincts 
and relinquish its desires. 

The equine race, when in a wild state, are gregarious, or congregate 
in herds. Man captures such a quadruped and places it in a stable, 
built to enforce the extreme of solitary confinement. The plain is the 
natural abode of the herd ; on their speed depends both their pleasure 
and their safety. Man ties the domesticated horse to a manger, and 
pays a groom to enforce absolute stagnation upon innate activity. The 
"panting steed" is the most timid of living beings. Man insists the 
charger is possessed of extraordinary courage ; he declares it delights in 
the tumult of battle ; and he esteems it a glorious achievement to brutally 
coerce the timorous sensibility. The mild-eyed horse is, perhaps, the 
most simple of all the breathing beauties which adorn a wondrous world. 
Man declares all of the gentle breed have dangerous propensities, and 
are most inherently vicious. 

Before subjugation, the creature fed off the surface of the earth. Man 
builds a house specially designed for the captive, in which the corn is 
placed on a level with the chest, and the hay is stationed as high up as 
the head. The animal is gifted with affections ; it longs to gratify their 
promptings; it yearns for something upon which its abundant love may 
gush forth, — a fellow-prisoner — a goat — a dog — a cat — a fowl ; no matter 
what, so it be some living object on which may be lavished that excess 
of tenderness which, confined to its own breast, renders being miserable 
Man esteems it his primary duty to clear the stable of all possible com- 
panionship ; but the creature which would rejoice, were it only permitted 
to worship its enslaver, he rarely approaches without a loud voice, a 
harsh word, or a harsher blow announcing his presence to the captive. 

The inhabitant of such a prison, a domesticated horse miserably drags 



20S EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 

through a shortened life, under human protection'. The nearest approach 
it can make to freedom is its period of exhausting labor. It always 
rejoices to quit its confinement; but, enfeebled by imprisonment, and 
sabservient to man's exactions, it ever gladly returns to the place of its 
sorrow. In proportion as its limbs are finely made and its actions are 
graceful is it prized. It is never esteemed for its instincts or credited 
with intelligence. It lives in so limited a space that, in comparison with 
the dimensions of its abode, a man in a sentry-box dwells in a mansion ; 
or a lion in a cage roams over a domain. A reasonable and an intelU- 
gent being commands his horse should be fastened to such a spot, and 
supposes that a living organism is to endure the confinement which does 
not permit the body to turn round ; that animated functions are to exist 
where most ordinary exercises are rendered impossible : nevertheless, he 
anticipates the creature will appear bounding with health in answer to 
his requirements. 

To be sure, the prisoner, although its head be fastened, (a restraint 
not imposed upon the most savage of carnivorous beasts,) is permitted 
now to bear upon one leg, and then to change it for the other. It may 
perhaps lie down or stand up, without provoking chastisement Neither 
head nor tail are forbid a proper degree of motion. But at this point 
all indulgence is exhausted. It is tied to a rope two yards in length; 
but it may not go even to the extent of its tether; neither may it move 
close up to the manger ; both acts are equally impardonable : a properly 
behaved animal should stand quietly in the center of its compartment, 
and always remain there when not lying down. 

It is beaten if its head be raised just to peep over the paling, to ex- 
change a rub of the nose and to give, as well as accept, a warm stream 
of fragrant breath to and from its nearest fellow-misery. It must taste 
the full flavor of its captivity : no trivial act may distract attention from 
the horror of its position. It must lie down where it stands ; and stand 
where it laid down. It must not display the grace and ease of motion 
with which it has been endowed ; nor must it indulge the kindly feelings 
Providence has gifted it with. To exert the faculties which the All- 
wise has planted in a beautiful body, man regards as evidence of its 
vicious disposition; though it has yet to be demonstrated that nature 
ever bestows any quality without an intention that the gift should be 
actively employed. 

The feelings of the master are more than sympathized in by the groom. 
A servant's pride always induces him to exaggerate both the virtues and 
the vices of his employer. What in the superior is a mere anticipation, 
which gratifies when it becomes realized, in the bosom of the dependent 
swells to a positive demand, compliance with which it is noble, at every 



EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 203 

hazard, to insist upon. The man, therefore, permits the cat to pur: 
but among the horses he is resolved to enforce the extreme of quietude. 

The menial does not inquire whether an exquisite adaptation of sight, 
so as to inspect the minutest particle and to view the most distant ob- 
ject ; whether a sensibility of hearing, to which movements are audible, 
when to the duller perceptions of the proprietor no sound vibrates on 
the air; whether a keenness of scent which can appreciate qualities in 
substances that to human sense are devoid of odor; or whether that 
fleetness of motion, which the Creator permitted as a protection, the 
ease of which machinery, when urged over common roads, has failed to 
rival, — the servant does not inquire whether such attributes- were given 
by nature only to be fastened by the head, or to be confined within a 
space in which absolute stagnation must ultimately induce bodily inca- 
pacity. For nature's intentions the groom cares nothing. "He has his 
doty to discharge and he will do it ! Master wishes the osses to be kept 
quiet on a arternoon ; and he's the chap as will see the guv'nor is not 
disappointed !" 

Such a doom can alone be varied by the hours of labor and the periods 
of feeding. To the animal thus surrounded, recreation is impossible, 
and its lodging is so small that bodily ease is unattainable. Yet the 
horse is kept for the use of its limbs; those who have observed the 
quadruped canter round the field into which it has been newly loosed, 
know that enjoyment is not incompatible with its existence. No 
pleasure, however, can be permitted within the stable. There, the 
slightest rustle or the gentlest indication of motion is jealously noted. 
Most equestrians like their quadrupeds to be still after feeding ; because 
perfect quietude is supposed to promote digestion and to encourage thrift 
among the horses. The groom loves silence, because, to his mind, it is 
so nice and so respectable. Besides, when no sound disturbs the mo- 
notony of the building, the groom can luxuriate in the sense of absolute 
idleness — a feeling which most servants recognize and enjoy. If any 
sound interferes with the afternoon's luxury, a harsh and taunting shout 
rebukes the inconsiderate disturber. " Now 1 Then 1 There I What 
ails you ?" 

The dreaded accents of the tyrant's voice may, for a space, banish the 
oppression of captivity. The animals, under the influence of newly 
awakened terror, may be enabled to shrink into absolute silence ; but, as 
the fear fades, the full reality of their position cannot otherwise than be 
felt in all its horrors. Fed upon stimulating food, how their spirits must 
languish, and how poignantly the aching limbs must suggest those 
pleasures there is no prospect of the prisoners ever again enjoying 1 
Every little incident is seized upon with an eagerness which attests the 



204 



EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 



prevalence of utter despair. Should a visitor enter the building, every 
head is raised and every eye is turned toward the welcome intruder. 




A SIRANQGR HAS ENTERED THE STABLE. 



The universal bustle which follows his appearance bespeaks how the 
lucky arrival has allowed the limbs to be stretched and the positions to 
be altered. For a moment or two, the straw is in audible commotion, 
while the sinkers, or blocks fastening the collar reins, may knock against 
the mangers, and the noise elicits no angry remonstrance. 

But as joy hailed his appearance, so does the dullness deepen on the 

stranger's departure. From that 
moment, any relaxation becomes 
a fault. All pastime is unlawful ; 
the most innocent amusement 
must be practiced silently and in 
secret. Certain animals, however, 
try to get throtigh the long hours 
of enforced idleness by quietly 
nibbling at the topmost rail of the 
manger. Large portions of tough 
wood are often removed after this 
fashion; and to him who can 
rightly interpret signs, a thick 
post bitten away, fiber by fiber, will present melancholy evidence of that 
longing for employment which could induce so great a waste of per- 
severance ; for animals are naturally great economists of labor. 

Other prisoners will endeavor to cheat the time by licking their 
mangers, apparently in the hope that some stray grain of corn may have 




NIBBUNG THE yOOD-WORK. 



EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 205 

escaped previous attention. The soft tongue of the horse, passed over 
the hardened surface of the wood, occasions no noise. Often a few 
grains will have lodged in the corners ; then the eifort to displace these 
affords a long game. Others, from want of something to do, or from 
finding impure air and inactivity do not, in accordance with the general 
doctrine, promote equine digestion, learn "to crib;" a few, from the 
operation of the like causes, become perfect as "wind suckers." All 
"speed the weary hours" as they best can; and many heads are turned 
round to discover if it be feeding time again ; not that they are hungry, 
but eating is an occupation, and they sadly wish for some employment. 

Certain quadrupeds, under these circumstances, adopt a habit, which 
is the more remarkable because hours of tedium have generated the like 
indulgence in human beings. Mortals, when compelled to remain sta- 
tionary, and forced to preserve silence, often strive to kill time by rock- 
ing to and fro, or by "see-sawing" their bodies. Such a pitiable excuse 
for amusement is very common among the little people whose undevel- 
oped limbs are perched on high forms, and in whose hands are fixed very 
uninteresting primers, from which the infant mind wanders into vacuity 
during the hours of imprisonment which occur in those abominations 
termed "Preparatory Schools." The horse, also, when forbidden the 
pleasures in which nature formed it to delight, will move its head me- 
thodically from one side of its stall to the other, and will continue thus 
engaged for hours together. 

So exciting a pastime, most sane people might deem to be harmless 
enough. It interferes with nobody ; if it can amuse the solitude of the 
creature, it should certainly excite no person besides. But in the arbi- 
trary notions of rectitude entertained within the stable, such a very sim- 
ple custom is punished as a positive "vice." A horse which "see-saws" 
is said "to weave," and "weaving" is, by grooms, esteemed highly cul- 
pable. What the poor animal is "weaving," no one can point out; but, 
supposing an idle time to be so creditably employed, "weaving," though 
not a highly remunerative occupation, nevertheless does not usually 
entail penal severity upon the offender. But grooms act upon their own 
convictions, and disregard the general morals of mankind. When a 
monotonous sound, however gentle, but long continued and regularly 
repeated, falls upon the ear of watchful ignorance, the awful fact that 
one of the imprisoned is endeavoring to cheat its misery, causes the lash 
to be grasped ; the smart of a well-directed thong cuts short the melan- 
choly recreation, to inform the captive that its keeper is determined the 
fullest flavor and the most distant relish of the situation shall be silently 
appreciated. 

The imagination cannot picture a harder fate ! Man, under such a 



206 EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 

doom, would be relieved by insanity. The horse has few pleasures ; but 
nature makes all life suffer acutely when forced to continue inactive. 
The creature cannot seek occupation in what young ladies term accom- 
plishments. It has no power to consume its existence in silent study. 
Like all animal vitality, its delight is to do, and that is the very thing 
which the groom insists it shall not perform. It can taste no other kind 
of pleasure. All created beings have some sphere of enjoyment. Ac- 
tivity constitutes that of the equine race ; but to prevent an innocent 
creature knowing the only happy sensation of which its nature is capable, 
the animal is placed in a compartment; tied up to a manger; while, 
behind, there sits a man who is specially engaged to chastise the smallest 
infraction of the prevailing silence of the prison-house. 

It remained for human perversity to conceive a life without a pastime, 
and vexatiously to impose this terrible fate upon the creature whose 
existence is devoted to man's service. When in the field, the horse is 
never idle. The only amusement of the simple animal lies in its per- 
petual occupation. What a despairing sorrow must therefore afflict such 
an existence, when dragging through its time under the fostering care 
of the enslaver ! Yet how proudly do some intellectual beings boast 
of their stables and of the ceaseless attention lavished on their studs 1 
What is it this assiduity realizes to the creature on which it is ex- 
pended? Stagnation to the active, and solitude to the gregarious. 
Movement draws down punishment, as it were a fault. Any attempt to 
while away the tedious hours is esteemed "a vice;" sensation must be 
checked, and feeling, man insists, shall be suppressed. But who, among 
the millions of intellectual masters, sufficiently understands the quad- 
ruped over which they all usurp authority, to regard the huge bulk of 
that endurance as the embodiment of the acutest form of every possible 
earthly misery ? 

To ascertain how far the foregoing remarks are founded upon reason, 
let it be supposed that man and horse were to change places, though the 
two animals, not being alike on the score of comprehension, no trial 
could be exactly equitable. Restlessness of spirit is the invariable at- 
tendant upon weakness of intellect. The advantage must, therefore, 
preponderate upon that side where intelligence might lose a sense of self 
in the excitement of thought, or where reflection could be amused by 
passing observation. But, granting all advantages to the human being, 
be it imagined that, for a single week, man inhabited a stall ; shut in 
from all society ; standing on one spot by day, and lying there by night ; 
having the same food and the water brought to him at regular intervals ; 
being obliged to make his meals without turning round; but, all the 
while, with his nose fastened close to a blank, white wall. After one 



EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 207 

single week of such probation, what does the reader conjecture would be 
the report delivered bj the groom, who sat behind with the whip, ready- 
to enforce silence ? In what respect, does imagination picture, would be 
the distinction between man and horse ? 

Stable propriety conceives that the dumb inhabitant of such a building 
is fitly occupied when gazing upon the whitened interior of its prison. 
It is barely possible that stable-men may think this a most engrossing 
amusement ; but there evidently exist horses which are so naturally per- 
verse as to imagine that sight was, by an all-wise Creator, bestowed for 
a more active purpose than to merely look at vacancy when at home, 
and to be blinded by blinkers when abroad. These are, generally, the 
new-comers. Colts, not thoroughly broken in, or quite inured to the 
customs of civilized equine existence, are such wayward creatures ! In 
their inexperience, they are too impatient ; the first taste of captivity is 
apt to generate in them a desire to look around, or to gaze on the fellow- 
beings about them. 

Inspired by a feeling of dissatisfaction with the boards which human 
care has plac*d on either side of their compartment, these youngsters 
are likely to gratify the promptings of the moment, by rearing up and 
by lodging the forefeet within the manger. Their heads are thus raised 
above the limit of their partitions. Where the corn is commonly thrown, 
the front hoofs now repose ; and, as a consequence, the view instantly 
becomes more extended. The scene is novel; the exalted quadruped 
can exchange glances with its companions. The prospect is pleasing, 
and the sensation it awakens is decidedly gratifying. But, unhappy 
creature ! While its eyes drink in delight, it cannot perceive the angered 
visage of the groom ; nor can it even think of his existence, till the smart 
of a well-placed lash recalls the sufierer back to the hopelessness of that 
solitude, under submission to which it can alone hope to escape from 
positive torture. 

This grave ofifense, like too many human failings, is engendered by 
idleness. The offending animal was without occupation. Its spirit was 
sick with inactivity. Therefore, in despair, it indulged that forbidden 
gratification which most men in their own persons do not view as merit- 
ing severe corporal punishment, or find to be a very stimulative amuse- 
ment, when, to kill time on a rainy day, they glance out of the windows 
of their apartments. The equine sin was, however, of no greater mag- 
nitude ; if it could, with strict justice, be said to attain to such lofty 
dimensions. The culpability, nevertheless, lay in an animal acting as 
though it had a right to use its own life for its selfish enjoyment. A 
horse obviously is the property of its master. The title to such property 
is absolute. The creature, consequently, has no right to act on its own 



208 



EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 



authority ; and to do this, regardless of the peril incurred, is positively 
contemplative dishonesty, which merited the heaviest possible visitation I 




A HORSE WITH THE FORELEGS IN THE MANGER. 



The altitude assumed, certainly, was not altogether safe. Mangers 
are built to merely uphold grain and chaff. Carpenters, in their col- 
lective capacity, are a knowing set, and are notorious for manufacturing 
articles of a strength merely proportioned to their uses. A heavy weight 
resting on fragile boards might have broken or have displaced some of 
them. In such a case, the animal having fallen through the opening, 
probably would, in its fright, have' fractured a limb. The inside of its 
manger, assuredly, did not offer a secure foundation for a steed to stand 
upon ; but, when tracing causes, we are bound to inquire, who or what 
provoked the act? The chastisement, it is true, has, according to this 
world's custom, been inflicted upon the weaker and the more simple; 
but consummation of such an act cannot establish the justice of the 
usage. 

The circumstances of the case presuppose something condemnatory on 
the part of the horse, the contemplation of whose conduct could excite 
such indignation in the groom. This fact is further supported by that 
surprise which mingled with the anger of the man. Even his habitual 
lassitude was conquered, through the energy aroused by the spectacle of 
such enormity 1 His bile boiled ; his voice grew indistinct with passion ; 
would excitement have permitted clearness of speech, oaths might have 



EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 209 

been overheard ; the cat was thrown aside without the smallest show of 
ceremony ; the servant leaped to his feet ; with evident determination he 
seized the whip and essayed to punish the offense. 

Discarding inferential evidence, and looking at the case for positive 
testimony, it may be well, before we engage in such an inquiry, to de- 
termine whether the horse has done wrongly, and whether the servant 
has acted rightly — ^the conduct of each being temperately reviewed. The 
quadruped, standing in the manger, and being naturally a timid creature, 
the sight of a whip and the smart of its application might cause the 
terrified life to perform several very energetic and eccentric movements. 
If the animal's fault laid in its mounting on so frail a platform, that, 
certainly, was a reason which should not have excited the groom to 
chastisement during the perilous position. Fear often banishes caution, 
and the exhibition ground of the contention, then, being specially limited, 
any alarm was calculated to provoke the danger which it was the office, 
and doubtless the intention, of the groom to dispel. During the strhg- 
gles caused by sudden fright, hair is often removed and sores established. 
A horse, surprised by terror, has engendered fearful blemishes ; trouble- 
some wounds have been produced, and prominences of bone have been 
fractured by the wild efforts of timidity, when excited by horror. The 
horse had no business to stand in the manger; but, being a non-reason- 
ing animal, we may overlook that transgression. The man, however, 
being an intellectual agent, did very wrong in flogging the steed while 
the quadruped retained its perilous position. 

To beat a horse, admits of justification by appealing to custom ; but 
to flog a horse when tied to a manger and confined to a stall, is certainly 
gratifying the human passion at the risk of injury to that property which 
every owner is supposed to possess in the perfect condition of his animal. 
Now man, being blessed with power to think, violated his duty when he 
indulged his own instincts at the hazard of harm to his employer, or 
when he chastised the colt for braving the possibility of injury ; since, by 
so doing, he was guilty of defying the probability of damage, and there^ 
fore stands convicted of a worse fault than that for which he punished 
his charge. 

Let us now endeavor to ascertain the real extent of that misdeed the 
contemplation of which provoked an amount of anger sufficient to banish 
prudence from among the virtues of a reasonable being. The colt is, in 
the first place, located and fastened within the stable. The fact certifies 
to no choice having been exercised on the part of the culprit; therefore 
it is blameless, so far as being inside a building might imply an error. 
It was fastened within a defined and an arbitrarily limited department. 
The animal, however, did not plan the edifice, erect the partitions, or 



210 EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 

halter its own head to one of the mangers ; consequently, so far it must 
be esteemed guiltless. But the creature, being there, leaped into a recep- 
tacle intended for food, and placed before it, thus obtaining a power of 
seeing around it. 

The last act argues discontent, and discontent has never been ranged 
with amiable qualities. Still, it is not commendable to be contented, 
when we possess ability to improve our situation. Eyes certainly are 
natural gifts ; their presence supposes a divine permission that sight 
should be exercised, since the wish to use them is an innate impulse. 
Man himself often endures much inconvenience and pays large sums, 
simply to gratify his eyes with the momentary spectacle of some gor- 
geous procession. The act, which has never been accused as a crime in 
the lords of the creation, should not, therefore, be esteemed unpardonable 
when exemplified by an animal which is occupying an inappropriate 
position. 

Next, let us ask^ what excuse can be urged to extenuate a deed which 
has already been shown to be less than a fault, and to be far removed 
from the category of crime ? The horse is formed by nature with a love 
of action. In a modern stable it is tied by the head, while the stall par- 
titions are of sufficient height to isolate its misery. The poor quadruped 
may have stood where it stands for several consecutive hours. The 
manger is fixed directly before it; the receptacle has been empty some 
time ; the thing is clearly not wanted now to hold food : yet, there the 
open box remains. The head is tied to it; the animal cannot escape 
from looking on and into it ; till speculation, which concern the possible 
intention implied by the fixature of the article, takes absolute possession 
of the equine mind. 

At last a bright idea descends ; the manger is thought to be placed 
where it is, as an easy step for the animal's feet to rest upon. The 
wood-work is situated at a convenient distance from the ground. Man 
could not have supposed the horse wanted victuals lifted to its mouth, 
ivben every field exhibits one of the tribe lowering its head to gather 
herbage from the earth ? Such a notion is ridiculous 1 The corn must 
be cast into the manger, simply because the thing is ready to receive it ; 
but its real purpose has only been recently discovered. A slight but 
pleasing effort raises the forefeet on to the imaginary platform. The 
creature is delighted with its elevated position, for the view from it is 
agreeably extended. Assuredly, to discover a new use for an old article, 
merits esteem ; and blame, if any blame be called for, should light on 
him who has imprudently placed temptation before an idle spirit, believ- 
ing animal nature to be too passive for any temptation to affect it. Man, 
therefore, was disappointed by the quadruped proving more intelligent 



EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 21x 

ihan he bargained for. The exhibition of intelligence should form no 
excuse for chastisement, though disappointment is too apt to expend its 
rage in blows. 

There remains, however, to decide whether the act on the horse's 
part, not being a fault, may be justly esteemed to be a virtue. A dull, 
phlegmatic beast had slept away the time "between the feedings;" had 
been content, so no exertion had been demanded. All men abhor what, 
in stable phraseology, is termed "a slug." It certainly is meritorious 
to seize every opportunity of displaying that sort of temper which our 
superiors desire should be presented. All horse owners love a gay, 
lively, spirited nag. Leaping into the manger was a proof of animation. 
The act may have violated stable propriety ; but the simple nature of the 
quadruped could not comprehend those regulations which man is incapa- 
ble of communicating to the equine understanding; therefore the rules 
of the place were nothing to the captive. The culpability should rest 
upon him who planned a building with fixtures capable of being readily 
perverted. Leaping into the manger was certainly commendable, so far 
as it testified to intelligence, intrepidity, and liveliness. The blame must 
reside with him who doomed a gregarious creature to solitary existence, 
and fixed before the prisoner a feeding trough, certainly at an inviting 
altitude. 

There is another supposed "vice" which animals doomed to length- 
ened and solitary confinement occasionally exemplify. Some gentlemen 
own several horses. Those parties possess ranges of stables, and every 
stall is occupied. When a person has a stud at his command, he is apt 
to conceive a dislike for riding. Days, and even weeks, may pass with- 
out the saddle or the carriage being ordered for the master's gratification. 
During such a period, the grooms are supposed to give the animals a 
healthful amount of exercise. 

But when superiors neglect their duty, inferiors will probably follow 
the example. A powerful propensity to imitate is one of the human 
peculiarities ; the truth of this observation is far more vigorously illus- 
trated in the stable than in the mansion. Much time may have gone by 
since some of the horses sniffed the breeze or looked upon the face of 
heaven ; let the period be still further extended, and the grooms will not 
complain. The quadrupeds may continue idle, and gorge until their 
livers burst with disease ; but their custodians can never tire of too little 
employment. When an establishment is thus managed, the grooms do 
not generally rise till the hour for morning exercise has passed ; if a 
stray thought of the captives should trouble their consciences, the qualm 
s always quieted with, "Oh ! let the poor devils enjoy a long rest." 

Breach of one obligation, like the falling of a first brick, is seldom a 



212 



EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 



solitary mishap. The stable attendant, not being kept strictly to his 
wt)rk, grows to regard his own likings more than to consider his mas- 
tei's orders. These people are always pleased with the exhibition of 
fat. The proprietor may talk about condition ; but the servant knows 
his master's favorite hunter should carry a "little" fat. It looks so gen- 
tlemanly to see a horse that is well fed. Every groom has a rare, secret 
nostrum which will load any animal with fat in a week. He will spend 
his perquisites to purchase this mysterious powder, a spoonful of which, 
given in a mash, at night, acts like a charm. At the same time, he 
serves out the oats and beans pretty generously. He fills the rack, 
heaps the manger, gives a dose of his secret mixture, and then, slapping 
the horse under the flank, exclaims, "There, old boy ! I think you may 
enjoy yourself now 1" 

We are told an alderman was once solicited for halfpence by a cross- 
ing-sweeper, because the man was "so hungry." The city magnate 
paused, looked at his petitioner, and, with feeling, exclaimed, " Lucky 
dog! I wish I was also hungry." The horse, wanting exercise, stares 
at the provender, but has no appetite. The food piled up before it is, 




A H0B8E 'WASTINQ THE HAT. 



to the animal, no other than "matter out of place." Desire is needed to 
give value to such abundance ; and a non-reasoning being cannot be ex- 
pected to prize that which it does not require. It cannot eat, but it lacks 
amusement. The hay is before it. In sheer idleness, a few stalks are 
pulled from the rack. Of these, one may be leisurely masticated ; but 
the remainder, after having been twisted about by the lips, are allowed 



EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 213 

to fall upon the litter. The sport is followed up until the rack is emptied , 
and the creature is a little happier, under a conviction that it has escaped 
from absolute stagnation. 

Yet, when we consider the heap of "prime upland" which has been 
spoiled, the subject cannot be allowed to pass without one word of in- 
quiry. Who or what is to blame, when so much fodder is wasted ? • No 
animal will prize food after its cravings are appeased. Fowls, having 
eaten, trample the superabundant barley under foot; dogs will sleep 
beside, or bury, a half-gnawed bone ; nay, man himself, subsequent to a 
good dinner, nauseates the greasy smell from the kitchen, and abhor* 
the sight of a reeking joint; school-boys form bread seals out of their 
breakfast superfluity; and domesticated gentlemen; located at the bot- 
tom of the table, have, when dinner was finished, been frequently known 
to amuse their fingers by making crumbs upon the cloth. Then the act 
of wasting victuals, after satiety has been achieved, being, with various 
beings, all but universal, the deed cannot be urged as a heavy accusation 
against a simple animal. 

Yet the scattered hay having been observed by the master, the groom 
then severely punishes the wasteful quadruped. In that case, however, 
it is the master's observation, which the animal could not possibly pre- 
vent, that drew down its chastisement ; the blows can establish no fault 
on the part of the horse. Its stomach being crammed, the creature 
could eat no more. The hay, however, was converted to some use. It 
was made to lighten the heavy hours of captivity. Such a purpose may 
not have fulfilled the proprietor's intention ; but it was the only service 
the captive could put it to. The sin, if there be any sin, certainly must 
remain with him who piled up provender before an animal which was 
without an appetite. Waste was indulged when fodder was thus mis- 
appropriated ; and the horse endured punishment from the hand of the 
individual who, had strict justice been administered, should have received 
the lashes on his own person. 

Simple natures, when enth-ely disengaged, generally make their own 
employment, and that employment, being intended for a passing amuse- 
ment, commonly consists of what thrifty people designate "mischief." 
The knowledge that displeasure will follow upon discovery, may spice 
the proceeding which otherwise might want interest. At all events, so 
it is with children ; and it may be thus with animals. When a heaped 
manger is before a satiated quadruped, the impossibility of feeding makes 
'he creature meditate upon the uses to which the grain can possibly be 
applied. None can be discovered. The head of the captive is tied, and 
the manger is fixed. At length, in carelessness of spirit, a mouthful is 
taken from the heap. The portion cannot be swallowed, so the lips are 



214 EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 

moved, and, as they part, the com falls over them upon the ground. 
This may not be a very exciting recreation ; but the prisoner is restless 
with repletion. It cannot sleep ; and the grain passing over the lips, 
in which equine feeling concentrates, produces a slight and a novel sen- 
sation. 




WASTING COEN. 



Can any man seriously pronounce that an animal, standing in enforced 
solitude and compulsory idleness, is to blame for such conduct ? Boys, 
during their school days, when wanting appetite, or having unnecessary 
food before them, will not they, in satiety, play with needless abundance ? 
Are men to demand that prudence from an animal which we should cer- 
tainly not anticipate in the young of our own species ? Yet the child 
enjoys a certain amount of confidence; and its misdoing is, therefore, 
aggravated by a certain abuse of trust. The horse is confined between 
boards, and enjoys not the smallest personal liberty. The severity of 
captivity argues that no reliance reposes upon the captive's discretion. 
All responsibility is lost, when all freedom of action is denied. Yet the 
poor prisoner is cruelly beaten for playing with food, although the true 
fault rested upon him who was too idle to give the exercise which would 
have generated appetite ; and was too lazy to proportion the animal's 
sustenance to the requirements of its situation. 

Moreover, if we had listened to the man's speech, as he entered the 
servants' hall, we should have heard a boast, that the horse had been 
given a good supper. Now, when a thing is given, all right of owner- 
ship passes away with the transfer. The groom, obviously, lost every 
remnant of title to its possession when he presented the corn to the 
animal as a free gift; and the beating which he administered to the 
quadruped was, therefore, an act of wanton severity. The horse had as 



EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 215 

great a right as the late Duke of Newcastle, to do as it pleased with it* 
own. The flogging could be no more than the gratification of an e,'u 
passion — out of which motive is generated the most serious crimes ; and 
consequently, it was anything but a commendable action in the groom 
who needlessly chastised a quadruped. 

Within the same stable is lodged youtig master's favorite mare. It is 
a beautiful creature: not so slight as to be weedy, but made to carry 
weight with ease, with speed, and with action. The young master on 
this occasion has traveled to London by rail, and the entire day has been 
passed by the mare within the walls of its abode. The fellow quad- 
rupeds have had their exercise ; but the groom dislikes this horse. It 
will not remain by itself, while the pipe is enjoyed with a pint of "early 
purl;" the man's pride revolts against drinking his morning's stomachic 
in the street. Besides, the animal, when first taken into the open air, 
will perfoi-m a variety of caperings. Young master likes such nonsense : 
but more than once it has thrown the groom. The mare is, therefore, 
abhorred with all the malice of a little mind. Yet the creature is all 
grace and animation ; it is only pleasantly excited, when its master gets 
into the saddle. Can horses possibly possess aristocratic predilections, 
and can the quadrupeds tell whether hirelings or proprietors are seated 
on their backs ? 

The mare is no favorite in the stable. Its feeling of vitality is too 
powerful to admit of that perfect quietude which the monarch of the 
locker loves should pervade his dominion. It is always making some 
noise. Moving about ; looking around ; nibbling the wood-work ; soil- 
ing its coat or rumpling its hair. A most perverse brute to look after ! 
It can't be alone and continue quiet ! It will not suppress its spirit : 
hang its head and appear to fall asleep like the other wretches. 

Such an animal, weary of captivity, has pawed its bed, till not a 
single straw remains within the reach of the forefeet. The manger has 
been repeatedly licked, till the possibility of a stray oat no longer stimu- 
lates further endeavor. The quadruped has strained its neck and ele- 
vated its head, till it is quite tired of staring around at nothing. It 
lacks amusement, and is half inclined to provoke a beating rather than 
endure the weight of silence and the horror of that monotony which per- 
vades its abode. In this state of restlessness, the vision alights upon 
the collar-rope. It essays to catch hold of it. The cord, however, 
being fastened near to the halter, of course it moves with every motion 
of the head. The feat is not, therefore, so easy as to lack excitement. 
The prisoner becomes quite elated. A new pastime has at last been 
discovered 1 

At first the rope is seized between the lips. The tether, however, 



216 



EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 




GNAWING THE COLLAR-ROPE. 



often escapes from such a hold : the teeth, therefore, are ultimately em- 
ployed. The texture of the firmest cord is easily compressed by the 
muscular power of the horse's jaw 1 The substance is not unpleasant 
to bite ; nor is the taste of hemp altogether disagreeable. The teeth, 
consequently, do not relinquish their grip with the termination of the 
game. The thing is, from- mere vacuity, bitten with different degrees of 

force. Fiber after fiber yields, till, 
without any design or the slightest 
intention, the substance is divided. 
The creature is then released ; but 
it does not at first comprehend 
that its bond is destroyed. At 
length, the welcome truth is recog- 
nized, and, bounding with delight, 
the released captive scampers 
about the gangway, peering into 
forbidden places, and reveling in 
its temporary freedom ! 

The amazement of the groom 
is excited at the spectacle of a horse enjoying liberty ! No thought is 
wasted upon the intelligence which was able to achieve so great a bless- 
ing. All animals, within the building, are credited only with evil quali- 
ties ; nothing praiseworthy is looked for or expected to be displayed by 
them. The only virtue a horse is esteemed capable of exhibiting is 
brutish submission. The groom, seeing the creature roving about, ex- 
claims in anger, "That wicket beast, agin I It is up to every 'vice !'" 

Another and a stouter rope is procured. The fastening is renewed, 
and made more strong than it was before. But what has been accom- 
pUshed once, will be repeated. It may be some days before limited 
intelligence can recall the precise manner in which its accidental pleasure 
was secured ; but, after an interval, the audacious animal is again in 
possession of unlawful license. Such occasions subsequently occur more 
quickly. Till, at length, the groom, puzzled and aggravated by the in- 
genuity of his charge, substitutes a thick chain for that which had hitherto 
been represented by a hempen tether. 

Iron is not so pleasant to the teeth, neither will it yield so readily to 
force as did the hemp. The chain is, consequently, an effectual check to 
some animals. Others, however, are not thus readily subdued. The 
recollection of forbidden sweets, once tasted and longingly remembered, 
stimulates their faculties. The teeth soon instruct the understanding 
that iron cannot be bitten. Is there no other way of breaking the fetter ? 
All living things, when desirous of freedom, pull violently against the 



EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 211 

bond which restrains them. The quadruped adopts the general artifice. 
The chain stretches. It perceptibly yields. Then, all the strength and 
weight are brought to bear : the fetter breaks. Only, the door is locked 
for the night, when this second offense is consummated ; and the horse 
is the next morning discovered by its groom, careering about the gang- 
way or sharing the stall of a companion. 




BREAEINQ LOOSE. 



That which one chain is powerless to retain may, nevertheless, be 
confined by double fetters. The groom, accordingly, has a second ring 
fixed upon the manger rail. A stout leathern strap is then buckled 
round the upper portion of a horse's neck. To that additional and 
heavier chain, passing through the second ring, an extra sinker is 
fastened. The head of the animal has, by this plan, to endure a 
double, or more than a double, weight. A constant drag, therefore, 
does not improve the carriage of the crest ; but it may serve to remind 
the quadruped of its recent successful plan of escape, while it certainly 
cannot otherwise than stimulate the desire for liberty. 

The struggles which, in thefirst instance, were so effective, being now 
proved powerless, the groom would joyously chuckle over his contri- 
vance, only perseverance in the horse is causing its neck-strap to inter- 
fere with the personal appearance of the animal. Constant friction and 
perpetual strain have made an unsightly notch in the mane, while the 
neck-strap has generated a circular mark totally devoid of hair. The 
mane is nature's embellishment, and neither horse nor lady looks more 
pleasing, when their flowing tresses have been partially destroyed. 

This is very vexing. Yet, when bad begins, worse generally remains 
behind. Animals which have adopted an idea seem incapable of relin- 
quishing the notion. The creature having once broken its tether resorts 



218 EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 

to its former plan of operations ; it pulls and pulls, only the bonds not 
yielding to the same force as before, the horse, following the groom's 
principle, increases the strength requisite to overpower the difficulty. 




THE EFFKCI OF THE COLLAS-STBAP. 



A man being defeated in his first essay, probably would resign him- 
self to sullen despair. But the horse is possessed of a different order of 
mind. Man can conceive a futurity; animals have a knowledge only of 
the past. All the tales told of animal instincts are capable of explana- 
tion by reference to their experience. Chastisement or chiding must 
be often repeated before brute intelligence can connect the infliction of 
pain with the commission of certain acts. But, the two being associ- 
ated, the teaching is generally retained, and, apparently, remains as 
fresh in the memory upon the day of death as it was upon the first 
acknowledgment of the lesson. The horse is, however, expected only 
to obey certain signs, and submit to certain restraints. Its intellect 
remains, therefore, in a great measure uncultivated. What has been 
once must be again, embraces the range of its understanding. 

The additional chain, consequently, makes no alteration in the be- 
havior of the horse. Present failure only excites to increased exertion. 
The entire weight and the utmost strength are brought to bear upon the 
fastenings. The simple quadruped, incapable of calculating the prob- 
able results of the sudden absence of resistance, plies with greater 
energy, till the chains snap, and the huge body, instantaneously re- 
leased, shoots violently backward. Bones have been broken. Lame- 
ness is the general result ; but lucky, indeed, is the creature which can 
rise after such a misfortune, and merely display several huge portions of 
its skin abraded. 

The reader is here invited to examine the facts which have resulted in 
this serious damage to living property. To bind the strong is not 



EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 



219 



necessarily to subdue the strong. To fetter the creature in whose 
welfare man has an interest, is evidently a defiance of probabilities, 




THE CHAIKS HATE BEEN SUNDERED. 



though it may not have been intended so to operate when the bond? 
were secured. The majority of horses can be stayed by a simple show 
of authority. We see a boy hold an animal from which the strong 
man has newly dismounted. So also would many a human culprit be 
secure in the old-fashioned prisons. Jails, however, are not erected 
with any regard for the passiveness of their inhabitants; but such 
edifices are built of a strength which may defy the efforts of the reso- 
lute, and are planned with an intent to counteract the ingenuity of the 
most cunning. Not so with stables. These edifices are erected to con- 
fine a creature possessing ten times the strength of any human being. 
The partitions, however, are of wood, and the bonds usually of rope. 
Those who are most fluent about the "vices" of the equine race evi- 
dently never thought upon the possibility of the animal conceiving a 
wish to escape ; for so very unequal are most stables to their contem- 
plated uses, that the author has known a horse, in the delirium of 
agony, kick into ruins the building which, during health, had for years 
served to confine its huge capability of destruction. 

The stable, however, is essentially a prison ; and so long as it retains 
that character, it should be of sufficient strength to resist the wildest 
efforts of the captives. Not being thus, it reflects disgrace on those who 
put it to uses for which the building is unsuited. The animal, being in 
bondage, loses all responsibility. Its safe custody is the duty of its 
self-constituied keepers. It has no trust reposed in it ; and, obviously, 
can violate no faith. It is held in durance by the right of the strong ; 
and if in the struggle which ensues it can prove the strongest, clearly 
the right which imprisoned it is upturned. 



220 EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 

In another point of view, the decision must be favorable to the animal. 
Nature has gifted the horse with faculties, and blessed it with instincts. 
Foremost among these faculties is, a facility of varied motion, displayed 
in particular yearnings ; as a fondness for fresh air, green fields, and a 
desire to roam abroad, unfettered, in the company of its kind. Man 
violently seizes the quadruped; without caring for the innate promptings 
of nature, he forces his slave to live, severed from all its longings and 
away from all it loves. Which is the horse to obey ? Is it to deny the 
charter planted by its Maker within its bosom ? Or is it any crime to 
rebel against the will which will shorten its life, withhold its pleasures, 
and cripple its body, — studying nothing but the pigmy's personal gain 
and heartless advantage ? 

Then, when the reader turns to the consideration of the custodian's 
conduct. Had the circumstances deprived him of all choice, and limited 
his means of restraining to a doubling of the customary bonds ? It is 
folly for the weak to engage in a muscular contest with the powerful. It 
is madness for the feeble to place dependence on straws, when the design 
is to bind a giant. In both respects the groom was in fault. Had he 
only thought for an instant, reason would have suggested that plan by 
which the resistance of the horse might have been subdued, and his 
master's property might have continued uninjured. 

The animal's struggles expressed merely a dislike to the rope attached 
to the head. Two fastenings were not calculated to remove the abhor- 
rence which a single bond excited. Had the horse been led from the 
stall and placed in the solitary chamber of a loose box, the change had 
quieted its spirit. At so small an expense might all the subsequent 
damage have been avoided. But a loose box does not acknowledge the 
pride of man, to use all -the life with which this world abounds according 
to his convenience. It was for pride's sake that mortality waged the 
battle ; and in loss did pride undergo defeat. 

Endeavor to explain the reason why a valuable horse has been dam- 
aged, to any professed groom, and try to make him understand how the 
miscalled accident might have been avoided; — the man, while you are 
speaking, will put on that look of dogged indifference which informs you 
the fellow has closed his comprehension against every argument. When 
you cease talking, the servant stares you in the face, and replies, "He 
wants no gentl'man to teach him his doty ;" and, by so saying, announces 
a determination to persevere in that course of conduct which has induced 
such lamentable consequences. There are men in this world who only 
employ their reason to perpetuate their ignorance. It is one thing to 
teach ; but it is more difiicult to find a pupil willing to be instructed. 

In many genteel families, stables are esteemed as places in jvhicb 



EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 



221 



lumber may be stored ; while grooms are regarded as odd men, always 
ready to be engaged upon any passing necessity. The stable attend- 
ant is seldom upon the locker ; and the one animal, kept for fashionable 
purposes, is commonly left much to its own society. The creature, thus 
housed, does not generally get its meals with regularity. Many hours 
are made longer, endeavoring to discover the pastime which shall lighten 
the tedium of its confinement, A melancholy game with such quad- 
rupeds consists in an endeavor to hit the collar-rope with the hoof of the 
fore extremity. 

This recreation, to the reader doubtless appears easy ; but to the horse 
it presents difficulties sufficiently numerous to keep up excitement. The 
rope is a small object ; it is situated high up ; it occupies a central situa- 
tion. The sinker to which it is attached keeps it always straight, and 
prevents it from being lowered. The cord, moreover, being fastened to 
the head of the quadruped, moves with every motion of the body ; the 
neck cannot be held stationary when the limb is raised to any unusual 
height. The game may endure for months, without the animal being 
so unfortunate as to succeed. At length the hoof hits the mark and 
becomes fixed. The horse instinctively pulls against any restraint. The 
tether is thereby rendered tense, and the pain of the situation becomes 
extreme. At last, by a violent effort, the foot passes over the bond, 
and the poor captive is fixed, until the groom enters the building and 
removes the sinker. 




A FOEELEG OVER THE COLLAR-ROPE. 



The lightest consequence must be, the hair abraded from the back of 
the limb, the skin lacerated, and the muscles of the neck sprained by the 
efforts to escape from constriction. Lameness, of some duration, is the 



2^2 EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 

usual result. Inquire the cause of mishap, and the groom will petu- 
lantly inform you "it were occasioned by the pranks of that fidgety 
beast, which is always up to some mischief." Perhaps you object to 
this explanation, replying, '"Mischief is not a fitting term, since it sup- 
poses intentional annoyance to another; whereas the horse has injured 
no one but itself" The man stares with surprise, and rejoins, "Ar'nt it, 
though 1 But it has injured me 1 When shall I ever hear the last of it?" 
Truly, the stable mind must quit the scene of its present labors, before 
it will submit to be enlightened. It is now so protected by a wall of 
selfishness, ignorance, and prejudice, that it is open to no assault. 

This misfortune is, however, gravely reckoned one of the "vices" of 
the stable. It is seldom repeated ; but a single instance is sufficient to 
confer the "vicious" character. Poor animal 1 When even mishaps are 
regarded as the planned results of its deliberate wickedness. Having so 
many virtues, yet not credited with a single good quality I Wholly and 
entirely misunderstood 1 Else, who in this accident would not perceive 
intelligence striving to invent some solitary pastime, which might while 
away the flagging hours ? Else, who would not recognize that this 
evil arose out of the foolish custom of tying up an active creature to a 
manger ? Else, who could fail to discern that a loose box would have 
rendered such an injury a positive impossibility ? 

The author is aware that were horses fitly housed and properly 
treated, the expense of maintaining these creatures must be increased. 
But against all additional cost there are benefits to be balanced. The 
animal would live more than thrice as long ; it would, for so much 
greater period, be fit for its master's service. The accidents occasioned 
by modern stables would be abolished; the sickness and the disease, 
produced by inappropriate food, by rigid confinement and impure air, 
would cease to exist. With change of building, there should also be a 
thorough change in the stable attendant. The present race of know- 
ing deformities are too full of tricks to be worthy a gentleman's trust. 
The groom should be forbidden ever to mount an animal, save in obedi- 
ence to his superior's special command. Now the men ride at their 
pleasure ; as a consequence, they very rarely walk. The quadruped is 
supposed to be only one person's property ; but the poor drudge has to 
serve "two masters." 

Under the present system, the horse is relinquished to the pleasure of 
the servant. The man's i*eport constitutes the all of a proprietor's knowl- 
edge. The mansion, therefore, reflects the ignorance and the prejudice of 
the stable. The persons occupying the buildings should change places. 
Most masters ride slowly, merely exercising the nags. Most grooms love 
speed, and in reality wear out the lives which credulity thinks saereu to 



EYILS OF MODERN STABLES. 223 

another's service. Yet, though surrounded by abuse, ill treated and 
often robbed of its food, the creature has no voice with which to accuse 
or to complain. There is no one who even cares for its welfare. It is 
credited with every "vice" and supposed to delight in malice. It is 
imprisoned, beaten, libeled, and nevertheless gentlemen are often en- 
countered who pride themselves upon the care and the money which 
are lavished upon their stables. 

When all that concerns mankind — the formation of their houses, their 
kind of food, their dress and manners, their laws and customs — have, 
with the progress of the period, thoroughly changed ; even to such an 
extent has this alteration been accomplished that it has been often said, 
were our ancestors resuscitated, they would not recognize the land of 
their birth; it becomes very painful for the mind to perceive that the 
habits and usages which formerly surrounded the horse remain to this 
day all but unaltered. It is a proof of the indifference which encircles 
the stable, when the buildings erected to receive horses at the Royal 
Veterinary College, and which date from the last century, are, at the 
present moment, regarded as models of perfection. Man cares only for 
himself: of his property in the life which he imprisons, he evidently 
takes no heed. He pays dearly for his carelessness; and "the beast 
within his gate " sha^-es none of those blessings which Providence has 
allowed the human race to enjoy, although religion should teach him 
that the mere mention of such a possession by Deity, ought to enforce a 
duty upon humanity 1 

Another so-named "vice" of the horse is frequently the occasion of 
more serious results than any of the before-mentioned accidents. N.o 
person has hitherto explained why" the skin should be more irritable by 
night than during the daytime. Such, however, is the case with horses, 
as it is with men. A quadruped in the morning is often found disfigured 
by the hair being removed from comparatively large surfaces. Itchiness 
has provoked the animal to rub itself against any prominence, or to 
scratch its body with the toe of its iron shoe ; this indulgence has 
caused the blemish. 

Itching and scratching are numbered among the worst " vices " of the 
stable. Such faults, however, are only discovered in their effects ; the 
groom never estimates, when flogging an animal for this wickedness, 
how far the abhorred sin may have been produced by stimulating diet, 
by want of exercise, and by impure atmosphere. No 1 He clothes up 
the body of the animal ; shuts every window ; stops every cranny ; and 
locks the stable door for the night. The last meal being consumed, and 
the quadrupeds not being inclined for sleep, they one and all begin to 
itch. Legs are nibbled; necks are rubbed; and tails are lashed. At 



224 



EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 



length one is sensible of an irritation behind the ear. The head is turned 
toward the side ; the body is curved to the full extent ; and the hind leg 
brought forward. Then, the groom not being present, the toe of the hind 
shoe can touch the part, and the horse luxuriates in a hearty titillation. 

When the head was turned toward the quarters, however, the collar- 
rope, being attached to the halter, was also stretched in that direction. 
The hind foot having performed its office, a desire is felt to return it to 
the natural position. The attempt is made ; but this is found to be im- 
practicable. The creature strains against the opposing force, but its 
struggles only render its comfortless attitude the more fixed. The truth 
is, that while devoted to the act which allays cuticular irritability, the 
pastern has slipped over the collar-rope. Such a mishap not only fixes 
the leg, but fastens the head. With the neck bent and one leg disabled, 
the animal cannot exert half its power ; neither can simplicity compre- 
hend the source of its unnatural constraint. Long continuance of the 
position becomes painful; alarm seizes upon timidity; the struggles 
grow desperate ; and the poor quadruped, at length, is cast with terrible 
violence upon the straw which had been shaken down for its repose. 




CAST IN THE COLLAR-KOPE. 



The animal is lucky which should be overthrown in a limited space 
and escape serious misfortune. It can hardly encounter such an acci- 
dent and rise from the ground uninjured. The slightest consequences 
are contused wounds or fractures of small osseous prominences. The 
worst result, however, usually follows the body being forcibly contorted 
throughout an entire night. Bones have been dislocated, or a limb has 



EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 225 

been so sprained as never to have recovered its functions. Necks have 
never afterward been restored to their pristine grace of motion ; and, in 
short, a valuable servant has, by such a misfortune, been so "wrenched 
from its propriety," as to be rendered utterly useless. Nevertheless, the 
groom will persevere in hailing the fate of an animal which has been 
cast in the collar-rope as a just punishment induced by the sufferer's 
inveterate "vice." 

Carters are open to complaint, because their horses are " cast in the 
halter," even to a greater degree than those of town grooms. In agricul- 
tural districts, it is a common practice to turn the teams out to graze 
during the night, and to take them from the field to work in the morn- 
ing. Some animals, however, prove troublesome to catch, preferring the 
cool grass and partial liberty to exhausting toil upon an arid roadway. 
To facilitate the capture of such quadrupeds, many carters, when freeing 
the creature, will not remove the halter, but suffer it to remain, because 
this affords a ready hold for the person who fetches in the horses on the 
following day. The result is easily anticipated. The ear itches. The 
foot, scratching the part, gets entangled, and that which was a valuable 
horse on the previous night, is found, in the dawning light, to be a dis- 
abled cripple, or a worthless carcass. 

The sane mind will, however, behold in this misfortune only a start- 
ling proof of the folly which ties the head to a manger, and leaves the 
animal at the hazard of a fearful accident. Such events have been com- 
mon ever since the race was first domesticated; yet, to this day, the 
custom is practiced. Where one quadruped enjoys a loose box, ten 
thousand are confined to the manger. Neither loss nor the spectacle of 
the misery produced by his folly seems able to instruct man where the 
life of another is delivered over to his keeping. As, in America, the 
master coerces and lashes his slave, so, in England, do proprietors starve, 
torture, and slay the animals which all pretend to love. The devotion 
of a life cannot even purchase those necessaries which are needful for 
the preservation of health. Though the strength and the service are 
contingent upon the maintenance of bodily vigor, man, with the capri- 
ciousness of tyranny, is neglectful of that upon the continuance of which 
the value of his possession entirely depends. 

It may be urged that the size of the horse's body necessarily limits 
the dimensions of its abiding-place. This is a strange reason ; but it is 
one commonly used among architects. We, however, do not apply the 
principle to our own race. Because the Horse Guards are tall men, we 
do not insist they should sleep in infants' cots, or wear the clothes of 
children. Giants are not forced to inhabit the houses fit only for dwarfs. 
Neither do we carry out the maxim with other creatures. Large rab- 

15 



226 EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 

bits hojt put into large hutches. Were smaller horses desired, ponies, 
even no higher than full-sized dogs, are not scarce. But greater weight 
and strength enable the quadrupeds to perform larger services. Does it 
not seem like meanness to select size for our own purposes, yet, where 
the creature is concerned, to make size a motive for stinting the neces- 
sities ? The horse is useful to man in proportion to its magnitude ; 
and the poor slave, therefore, ought not to feel the bulk to be its mis- 
fortune I 

The author cannot here report the grooms' opinions upon such a topic, 
though, doubtless, these persons would be the advocates of misrule. 
There is no class, however, which suffers more than stable-men, from 
the present custom of confining horses. On cold, wintry nights, when 
snow is on the ground, these persons, who generally live above the 
stable, are often awakened from their first sleep, forced to leap from 
warm beds, and, thinly clad, to hurry down stairs to quiet the horses. 
The entire stable are lashing out at the same moment. Each hoof 
seems to be leveled at the stall post, which all violently strike ; hence 
the disturbance. 

But what occasions horses to kick by night ? That question is per- 
haps best answered by another. What occasions children to cry by 
night ? Both wake suddenly, and each finds darkness or solitude and 
silence around it. The horse is a timid creature, and it is of a limited 
intelligence. Children are not generally conspicuous for courage, and, 
in them, the reason is undeveloped. Infants are born with a natural 
sense of helplessness; hence they are the easy victims of alarm, and 
when frightened, they scream aloud. Horses are brought into the world 
with an instinctive dependence on the propulsion of the heels, and when 
frightened, they kick. Children have startled up from fearful dreams, 
and have screamed themselves into fits. Animals also dream; horses 
having awakened suddenly, have used their heels as a defense, and 
have been found lying dead upon the ruins of a battered wall in the 
morning ! 

The feet, when cast out, hit the stall post. The blackness of night 
prevails throughout the place; or fear being kindled, the vision is 
abused. No eye can pierce utter darkness, and terror lends shape or 
form to every obstacle which the hoof encounters. The dread which 
sleep has generated, the awakened perception seems to confirm. The 
animal lashes out with redoubled violence. The noise made by the act 
soon arouses its companions. Nothing is so sympathetic as horror. 
Armies have been actuated by panics. Why, therefore, should animals 
escape from such senseless emotions ? When thousands of men have 
scampered away from no existing peril, cannot the reader anderstand 



EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 



227 



that many animals may be impelled by a feeling of fear, when no dangei 
is present ? 

This is sooner admitted, when it is perceived that the fancy is active 
in proportion as the intellect is weak: the groom, not having a very 
powerful understanding, nor having yet slept off the potions and fumes 
of the previous evening, curses those "vicious varmints," as he shiver- 
ingly opens the stable door. No sooner, however, does the candle 
illumine, or his presence destroy the loneliness of the place, than fearful 
eyes cast backward glances, and seeing nothing, all instantly becomes 
silent. Our engraving of the above incident represents every horse in 
action; though, frequently, the more slothful will remain passive, not- 
withstanding the tumult which prevails around them. 




EIOEINQ IN THE NIQUT. 



This is the effect invariably produced, as soon as the quadrupeds have 
sufficiently mastered their terror to regain their natural perceptions. 
Sometimes, however, a minute may elapse before consciousness is per- 
fectly restored. That is the period of danger. Many silly fellows, 
impatient of their thin clothing, pierced by the frosty air, will approach 
the animals, during the interval, without remembering that though his 



228 EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 

v^oice may produce its usual effect, bis costume is altogether a disguise. 
The man not being recognized, bis strange figure may renew the general 
alarm : when the gangway, having on both sides the hind feet of terrified 
horses projected into it, becomes anything but a safe promenade. 

Now, what produced this excitement of the stable ? It was not the 
dream of one animal which caused it. That may have commenced the 
tumult, but it was not of itself necessary to the perpetuation of the 
uproar. The hoof of one quadruped striking the stall post also was 
distinct from the subsequent noise, which started into existence only 
with the spread of alarm. Then was generated the terror ; for the feel- 
ing must have preceded the act, which announced itself by violence. It 
was the darkness or the silent solitude of the night which allowed full 
play to the fancy, and conjured up those shadows that drove the horses 
into temporary madness. 

Had not the heads been fastened, the animals, by moving about, could 
in some measure have tested the reality of their fears. But, fastened to 
one spot, the fact of having no ability to escape augmented that alarm 
which the darkness of the stable and the oppression of silence caused 
and subsequently confirmed. A loose box and a little light would have 
rendered this noise an impossibility ! The horse's eye can see perfectly 
in that dusk which to the feebler vision of man might represent an 
approach to positive blackness. There are few horsemen who, when 
riding by night, have not had reason to be grateful to the keen percep- 
tion of their four-footed servants. There are, however, fewer horsemen 
who are aware whence the animal derives this faculty of distinguishing 
objects in all but perfect darkness. 

Cats, owls, and other creatures are popularly reported to see in the 
dark. The discernment of every form of vision is disabled by jyerfect 
darkness ; but the eyes of such animals are so constructed as to collect 
and reflect upon the optic nerve any remaining ray of light. The horse 
has an eye endowed with a similar faculty. Most people must have 
observed that horses assemble under the trees, and apparently sleep 
during the daytime. Who, however, ever beheld one of the equine race 
resting during the night ? When summer prevails, night is the feeding 
time of these quadrupeds. When the flies are no longer abroad, but 
the dewy grass is cool and crisp to the bite, — when the absence of glare 
soothes the sight is the period of equine enjoyment and the season of 
equine watchfulness. Does not the reader acknowledge intention in 
such circumstances ? The carnivora, all of which delight in the flesh of 
the steed, prowl by night, and abound in. those regions of which the 
horse was originally a native. For the conservation of the tribe, there- 
fore, these creatures were formed very fleet, very endu'^mg, but no less 



EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 229 

quick to detect the approach of an enemy, being as restless by night as 
the beasts which esteem the horse's carcass a favorite repast. 

The steed, therefore, does not require a chandelier to be fully illumined 
and to be suspended in the middle of the gangway. An ordinary night 
light would enable the animal to see perfectly over a large building; 
and the expense, when divided among numerous individuals, would for 
each be too small for any English coin to represent. No light, however, 
could prevent some quadruped occasionally waking up, and in the fright 
of imperfect consciousness flinging out both its heels. Such accidents 
no forethought could anticipate. But a slight flame, only sufficient to 
dispel absolute darkness, would mitigate if not quite abolish those panics 
during which every foot in the stable is employed to create the greatest 
attainable noise. 

There is another so-called "vice," which is more directly brought 
home to the groom than any of the previous mishaps. Probably the 
statement may, to the reader, appear impossible, which asserts that the 
servant cail impose upon the master so many of his own faults as proofs 
of "mischief" on the part of an innocent quadruped which it is the 
menial's duty to look after. This cheat the fellow is enabled to prac- 
tice chiefly because he is supposed to be incapable of explaining or of 
distorting those circumstances which he reports. Thus mishaps are 
called according to their final effects; and no notice is ever given to the 
causes which led to such results. A horse is said to have "leapt into 
the manger;" "to have broken loose;" "to have gnawed the collar- 
rope;" "to have got one leg over the collar-rope;" "to have cast itself 
in the collar-rope," etc. 

Were inquiries instituted, the truth, no doubt, would be speedily dis- 
' covered, and long ago a remedy would have been apportioned. No 
domestic, however, enjoys so much of the master's implicit confidence 
as he who governs the stable. Persons, moreover, of the class re- 
spectable are far more swayed by their servants than might be pleasant 
for the gentlemen to acknowledge. Under this feeling, a vast amount 
of abuse lies concealed, for the weakness is by no means responded to 
by respect from the inferior. The "respectable" is always asserting his 
dignity, and afterward compounding for hastily-spoken words. The 
groom neither forgets nor forgives these verbal injuries, although his 
mind is amply stored with maxims against upstarts, to protect his vanity 
from any wholesome teaching which the admonitions might convey. 

Gentlemen, when detained late abroad, generally ride home fast; 
partly, froin a consciousness that it is long past their usual hour of 
"retiring for the night," and partly, because they know the groom is 
"waiting up" for their return. When the stable is reached, the coat 



230 EYILS OF MODERN STABLES. 

of the horse may be wet with perspiration; or a badly -made saddle 
may have disturbed the smoothness of the hair ; or the night may prove 
rainy, aui the animal be brought home drenched to the skin. There 
are other causes ; but be they what they may, the master walks off to 
bed, while, the servant, noting the example, extracts from it no additional 
humor to discharge his duty. The man is, likewise, cross and sleepy. 
He turns the horse into the stall without attempting to dress it. He 
places oats and hay before the quadruped, and says, "If gentl'men will 
remain out till all 'ours o' the night, they may sit up and dress their oss 
'emselves ; for it is rather too much to expect any seVant, after a 'ard 
day's work, to keep out of his bed and do it for 'em." Accordingly, the 
man hurries to his room, and soon sleeps soundly. 

The quadruped, when the satisfaction of hunger allows the personal 
feelings to be appreciated, becomes aware that the partial dryness of the 
coat has produced much irritability of the skin. The animal, therefore, 
throws itself down, and commences to enjoy the luxury of a roll among 
the straw. Darkness disables the vision ; but, were the light at its greatest 
power, the horse, in its state of torture, would probably notice nothing 
about it, for domestication destroys the natural instincts of all animals, 
making man the custodian of the cares as well as the bodies of the cap- 
tives. The paving of the stall, also, being hio'hest near to the manger, 
the inclination of the floor, together with the writhing of the body, oc- 
casions the quadruped to insensibly slide backward, until the tension of 
the collar-rope forbids its further progress. 

This check induces the wish to rise ; an attempt is made to brhig the 
legs under the body for that object. But as this movement is endeavored 
to be accomplished, the hinder shins strike violently against some hard 
substance. The effort is renewed again and again ; till the animal, de- 
prived of sight and prevented from supplying the loss of one sense by 
the exercise of another, ultimately becomes alarmed, and the struggle 
commences, during which the hind legs are certain to be bruised, abraded, 
or other evils are sure to be inflicted upon the organs of propulsion. 
Nor is this all the peril in which the creature is now placed. Noise 
awakens the natural timidity of the companions ; and should other horses 
be startled by the violent drumming on the partitions, probably they 
will become the victims of alarm. The sight of the animals is likewise 
useless in the utter darkness ; and horses, when frightened, usually "hang 
back," or try to escape from the ropes which fasten the heads to the 
several mangers. 

Under such an impulse, the obtruding legs stand a good cliance of 
being broken ; and the animal then must remain in its misery till master 
has approved the employment of a pistol. Should nothing beyond 



EVILS OP MODERN STABLES. 



231 



bruise and abrasion be present, the groom himself undertakes the imme- 
diate relief. Another man is procured, and the knot below the sinker 
being untied, the head is released from the manger. But it is not usual 
for quadrupeds, after such a misfortune, to rise immediately. However, 
the servant always hopes for the best, so he and his assistant jointly 
pull at the tail till the legs are free from impediment, and then leave the 
wounded creature for master's wonder and inspection. 




A HORSE CAST BT BOLLIMa IN THE MANOER. 



A HORSE BEINQ RELEASED FROM THE PREVIOUS 
SIIUATIOiS. 



The remedies applied to all injuries (excepting fractures) which occur 
in the stable are equally simple, and few in number. These consist of a 
lotion, composed of two ounces of tincture of arnica, which is put into 
a pint bottle, to be subsequently filled up with water. This is used till 
all symptoms of bruise or swelling have disappeared, after which another 
lotion is to replace the first. ^ This last is formed by adding one grain of 
chloride of zinc to every ounce of water, or one scruple to each meas- 
ured pint of fluid. These lotions are to be apphed frequently, not 
directly to the injury itself, but a sponge, saturated with each liquid, is 
to be squeezed dry above the sore, the moisture being allowed to trickle 
over the wound. 

The strongest testimony, however, against stables, as such buildings 
are at present erected, is perhaps borne by the animals which inhabit 
those places. The horse is a delicate test, which man would do well to 
attentively observe when he is desirous of ascertaining the healthfulness 
of any locality. Naturally it is all animation and gayety of spirit. But, 



232 



EVILS OF MODERN STABLES. 



however much these qualities may be esteemed, such equine recom- 
mendations will soon fade before the joint influence of impure air and 
close confinement, although you may groom and feed at discretion. The 
natural period of life is diminished one-half, while much more than half 
of the remaining years is rendered useless by age, prematurely brought 
on by inappropriate treatment. 




TEE EXPHESSION op countenance induced by lONG STAGNATION IN THE STAU 
OP A ■WELL-PROVIDED STABLE. 



CHAPTER TIL 

THE FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM MOST PRESENT ERECTIONS WHICH ARE 
USED AS STABLES. 

No gentleman regards his country-seat as finished until to it ample 
stabling is appended. The mansion is the first thing looked to. All its 
rooms must be noble ; all its ofl&ces must be convenient. The pleasure- 
grounds must be magnificent ; the kitchen-garden should be much larger 
than is absolutely necessary. Nothing must interrupt the view from 
the drawing-room windows. A park, or its imitation, must terminate 
the lawn. No wood must be sacrificed. Everything must imply more 
wealth than the owner's purse actually contains. As to stables, of 
course they must be most excellent ; only, being situated in the back- 
ground, no great expense need be lavished on such out-buildings ; any 
waste spot will serve for their erection. A small space, judiciously em- 
ployed, can be made to house a great number of horses. 

The architect, being informed of the wishes of his employer, unhesi- 
tatingly asserts that four feet, or four feet six, or, in extreme cases, five 
feet, are considered ample width for stalls. The proprietor agrees to 
grant the last-named space for the abiding-place by day of a living 
horse, and the spot on which rest must be enjoyed during night by the 
same huge quadruped. Many a human pigmy sleeps on a more ample 
couch, which, moreover, is situated in a spacious chamber. Such is the 
distinction drawn between master and slave ; although, when rightly 
considered, life is but life, and the larger animal has. the greater neces- 
sity for more abundant air ! 

This decided, the gentleman rubs his hands, and, warmed by the con- 
templation of his own liberality, applauds "the nice arrangements," 
which he has sanctioned "regardless of expense." But the carriage- 
house, he is positive, shall be built quite large enough. He cannot 
forget that those rascals grazed his last new vehicle on the very day it 
came home from Long Acre. The accident happened while putting it 
into a narrow building. No ! Let what will be cramped, the carriage- 
house must be spacious. 

(233) 



234 FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 

Thus, men take much care of that species of property which, being 
damaged, can be repaired for money ; but they treat with neglect, and 
thrust into unwholesome corners, that life which, when injured, not 
all the wealth accumulated upon this globe could restore to soundness. 
With the inanimate, there is nothing to remove the full force of blame, 
which man must accept as his fault alone. The deterioration of such 
articles, when it occurs, cannot be laid to the charge of any other living 
being. This renders man more careful of such things. With life, there 
is always something which can be made to take the weight of culpability 
from the master's shoulders. The horse was obstinate ; it had a bad 
temper ; it possessed a vile mouth ; it bolted ; it refused ; it shied ; it 
reared ; it jibbed ; it kicked, or, in some way, it resolved not to do its 
duty. The dumb creature can make no answer to the accusation ; and 
human nature is readily convinced of its impartiality when its errors 
have been mainly cast upon another life. 

The builder is, of course, governed by the architect ; the architect is 
anxious to exhibit plans which shall elicit the approval of the proprietor. 
So, in the end, those arrangements, upon which the well-being and the 
health of many lives must depend, rest upon the caprice of an elderly 
gentleman, who now, for the first time in his life, may give serious 
thought to such a subject. However, this is the rule, whether a house 
is intended for a family residence or is erected as a speculation: the 
stables almost invariably occupy the space which is left after every other 
want is satisfied. 

When picturing one, the author designs to portray most modern 
stables: very few of which are erected after maturer considerations 
than the imaginary elderly gentleman has bestowed upon his contem- 
plated "out-houses." Proverbially, according to this world's usages, the 
submissive are the abused ; it would indeed be -difficult to discover a 
more perfect type of absolute submission than is exemplified in the 
powerful body of a domesticated horse. Are we, therefore, to conclude 
that in this attribute lies the reason why it is the most ill-treated, the 
worst-nourished, and the meanest-lodged of the many inhabitant? upon 
this earth ? 

However, that the writer may not be accused of drawing on his fancy, 
or of representing as actualities things which have no existence in fact, 
he will, where reference is necessary, quote from the pages of a work 
on " Stable Economy," written by Pi-ofessor Stewart, of Glasgow. This 
book, when a pupil at the Royal Veterinary College of London, was 
purchased by the author, he being induced to procure it by the high 
character which it bore among the members of his profession. There- 
fore it is selected as an authority upon the subject of which it treats; 



FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 235 

and when quoting it, the present writer will, so far as may be prudent, 
forbear to adduce his personal opinions. 

Concerning doors, permitting egress from and allowing entrance into 
stables. Professor Stewart directs that these should be made "eight or 
eight and a half feet high and five feet wide." The dimensions here 
laid down are evidently regarded as large or of model amplitude ; for, 
subsequently, we are informed "accidents often happen from having 
doors too low and too narrow." Aware, therefore, of the necessity for 
space, the Professor must have imagined he had allowed room sufficient 
to anticipate those accidents which he was contemplating, when the 
passage was indited. The reader may, therefore, reasonably conjecture 
that, when proposing the above measurement, the Professor not only 
thought he had permitted every requisite freedom, but that he had even 
provided large marginal capacity for extraordinary occasions. 

Certainly, when compared with the vast majority of existing door- 
ways, the proposed entrance may be viewed as exceeding the utmost 
limit of boundless liberality. The next sentence encountered in the 
book already referred to, apprises the reader that "three feet six inches 
is the usual width of a stable doorway; a few are four feet." Conse- 
quently, the author of " Stable Economy," warming as he contemplates 
the munificence of his conception, adds, "no care is necessary, when taking 
a horse through a space five feet wide and eight feet six inches high !" 

Nevertheless, though the difference between the height and bulk of 
man and horse is altogether in favor of the animal, there are many doors 
admitting people to human habitations, which considerably exceed the 
dimensions laid down by a kindly disposed and an amiable writer, as 
the utmost space necessary for man and horse, simultaneously, to pass 
through. Within the domiciles of the lesser creature, it is by no means 
a rarity to discover entrances of a much greater height than Professor 
Stewart allows his imaginary model stable to possess. 

Many gentlemen love to own tall horses. Persons having such a 
taste will not look at an animal unless it stands sixteen hands high ; 
or unless it will measure five feet four inches from the top margin of the 
withers to the ground. The foregoing measurement, however, does not 
allow for the head and neck, which, though not reckoned in the general 
estimate of equine altitude, still cannot be left behind when the horse 
quits the stable. Some animals exceed sixteen hands : such quadrupeds, 
if they carried high crests, would have to lower their ears when passing 
under one of those beams which the learned Professor evidently intended 
to be so lofty as should release the groom from every care, and free him 
from all responsibility. 

It is by no means unusual to encounter a man who stands more than 



236 FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 

six feet in his stockings. Such persons, when seated, measure at least 
three feet from the crown of the head to the cushion of the chair. One 
yard, therefore, added to the height of the horse makes more than eight 
feet; or, allowing for saddle, hair of rider, etc., approaches unpleasantly 
close to the highest point of that space which was to release a groom 
from every care. 

Some persons prefer to mount in the stable. Many horses will only, 
while there, allow a rider to quietly cross their backs. Most gentlemen 
have their hats on before the feet are placed in the stirrups. But sup- 
posing a tall man to get upon a high horse, the covering to his head 
must be extremely shallow if it is to receive no damage when passing 
through the doorway which, the reader has Professor Stewart's assur- 
ance, is so lofty as to dispense with every care ! 

To ride out of the stable is very far from an eccentric habit. A model 
door should, therefore, contemplate the passage of any ordinary sized 
horse, with any rider of average proportions seated upon its back. The 
tallest man probable, as well as the smallest possible, should be equally 
accommodated by its dimensions. A model door ought to provide for 
every customary purpose. When considering such a structure, it is not 
sufficient that its size is proportioned to the majority of purposes, but it 
should be fit for all, save only very extraordinary uses. 

The width customary with such entrances — "three feet six inches" — 
must not be passed over unnoticed, if only to convince the reader of the 
entire inadequacy of such a space. The author, however, could readily 
point to many stable doors of even narrower capacity than is implied in 
the foregoing limitation; but having bound himself not to adduce his 
own experience, he gladly accepts Professor Stewart's testimony con- 
cerning those things which are to be reviewed in this place. 

When a horse is led, not ridden, out of the stable, the groom com- 
monly proceeds according to the following method : The man grasps a 
rein, and, walking by the side of the animal, servant and slave pass the 
threshold together. The three feet six inches of clear space has to per- 
mit the passage of two bodies at the same moment ; therefore, dividing 
the allotted width, and giving half to each, allows one foot nine inches 
as the share of either. A groom, however, when in full livery, and 
within his own dominion, is an important personage. He permits no 
familiarity from his inferiors ; he expects only proper behavior from the 
horse, while he is beneath the shadow of his realm. That groom must 
be devoid of all self-esteem, and unworthy of his post, who could allow 
the cleanliness of his costume to be soiled or the polish of his boots to 
be sullied ! 

A person of ordinary stature, and in average health, will measure, 



FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 



28T 



across the sbbulders, from seventeen to twenty inches. An animal of 
moderate size can barely squeeze through a clear gap of twenty-two 
inches width. Then, taking the man at the lowest standard, and adding 
seventeen to twenty-two inches, we obtain thirty-nine inches, as the 
smallest amount of room which servant and quadruped could manage 
to pass through. Such a close measurement, however, supposes the 
two living beings to touch one another, as well as to graze the sides of 
the passage. Against such gross usage, the innate dignity of cockade, 
leathers, and riding coat would alike protest ! 

Three feet six inches, however, allow exactly one inch to divide the 
door posts from the man and from the horse ; while an inch also remains 
to separate the dignity of the domestic from the simplicity which it is 
conducting. The margin is not very ample ; and both creatures must 
march with uncommon steadiness for neither of the animals to touch the 
posts, or to rub against the other. 

Five feet, certainly, afford more ample quarters. Through such a 
frame both man and horse, supposing each to be quietly disposed, may 
pass with ease. Even so vast a limit, however, will not allow the groom 
to dispense with every care. An animal may, reasonably, be delighted 
when it sniffs the fresh air ; and it may 
be permitted to perform a :ew pranks, 
as it quits positive stagnation to make 
the nearest approach to freedom which 
its enslaved condition can sanction. 
School-boys do not observe any sever- 
ity of order, when they cast aside their 
tasks to throng into the play-ground. 
Yet the youths are confined to study 
only for a comparatively short period. 
But what must be the feelings of the 
steed, when leaving the heated stable 
and the narrow stall, where it has prob- 
ably been imprisoned for twenty -two 
consecutive hours ? 

Who among us, if he had the power, 
would check the graceful prancings and 
elegant curvetings, by which a simple 
nature announces its sense of happi- 
ness ? To human feeling, an idea of 
having to carry another's weight, in the 
direction and at the pace the rider pleases to command ; to have a sharp 
bit pulled against the tender angles of the lips ; to be flogged with a 




"down in the hip;" or a horse vntn thb 

BONE OF ONE HIP FRACTURED. 



238 FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 

heavy whip, or goaded with sharp spurs, — conjures up afi image calcu- 
lated to awaken no special delight. But long imprisonment may induce 
that eagerness to breathe the air of heaven, which may possibly render 
the prospect of labor, beyond the confines of its jail, welcome to the 
captive. 

Quadrupeds have been injured while passing through the widest of 
modern entrances. The pleasure of escaping from the tedium and from 
the faintness of actual stagnation generates a joy which banishes the 
sense of prudence. All feeling and every caution appear to be engulfed 
in the exultation of the moment. The horse dances as it walks ; the tail 
is gayly whisked ; the neck is arched ; the mane is shaken and the body 
is twisted, by those numberless undulations which have often excited 
the admiration of enthusiastic spectators. If, during one of these ex- 
pressive movements, the trunk should be inflected more than the seven 
inches which the five feet allow, or the animal, influenced by the impetu- 
osity of excitement, should come in contact with the door post, the con- 
sequence maybe fearful.. The possibility of check, certainly, does not 
enter the thought of the joyous creature. The blow is proportioned to 
the heedlessness which induced it. A bone can be fractured on such an 
occasion ; nor is it an unusual accident. Most horses which are beheld 
with one "hip down," have had the deformity produced by striking 
against the post of the stable door. 

"Down in the hip," is a groom's phrase, and merely signifies that 
one of the prominences of the haunch-bone, or, employing anatomical 
language, that one of the inferior spinous processes of the ileum, has 
been broken oif. This osseous projection is of great importance to the 
value of the quadruped; it, gives origin to numerous muscles, but more 
particularly to the powerful extensors of the hind limb. That ease, 
grace, and rapidity with which the member should be moved are by this 
misfortune destroyed, and the animal is thereby unfitted for the more 
highly esteemed half of its future services. By the accident it loses caste, 
and moves downward in the scale of equine employments. 

This terrible afl&iction to the life principally concerned may also be 
occasioned in another manner. Grooms, when leading a horse from the 
stable, commonly walk by the side of the animal. Such persons are 
usually fully dressed to attend their masters, when called upon to per- 
form this duty. Thus arrayed, the vanity of these men is extreme. 
Their importance almost exacts homage from the quadruped upon which 
it is their office to attend. Should the creature in its joy, when passing 
through the doorway, touch the coat of the domestic, such familiarity 
elicits the utmost indignation. Pride frowns at the pollution of its vest- 
ments. A loud word, a kick or a blow, instantly resents the insult. The 



FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 



239 



animal, in terror, skips about to avoid further punishment. The door 
post is struck; the haunch is fractured, or the pain is inflicted which 
renders the creature, with its retentive memory, ever after fearful when 
passing through an entrance. 




-^M^.nu 



BOLTING THEODQH THE STABLE DOOR. 



The ordinary life of a domesticated horse is so monotonous that 
recollection of events cannot otherwise than be retained. The animal 
subsequent to such a calamity, even though no bone should be fractured, 
cannot gaze upon a door with calmness. In future, alarm is exhibited 
whenever an entrance has to be approached. It cannot enter or quit its 
abiding-place without displaying those symptoms of terror which to the 
groom are the representatives only of inveterate "vice." The most 
violent or the blandest of tones cannot restore placidity to the brain 
which is troubled by fearful recollections. It is useless to coax, to 
threaten, or to punish : the animal has no ability to assume its former 
quietude when passing through the terrible opening. But it strives to 
brace up its nerves for the performance of the necessary act.. All its 
resolution is summoned^ till, maddened by excitement, it wildly dashes 
through the entrance, dragging after it the boy to whose custody the 
more dangerous quadrupeds are usually intrusted by the prudent sagacity 
of stable-men. 



240 FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 

Terror, once generated in tlie equine brain, is never removed, until 
years of misery have ruined the health and destroyed the spirit of the 
horse; rendering it a mere suffering machine, careless of the present 
and hopeless for the future. The weight of affliction which nearly all 
of the unhappy race have to sustain, as age increases, changes the tem- 
per and the bearing of the creature. Its prostrated existence seems 
almost to have become indifferent to human malice. Mankind would, 
certainly, not be the less happy could they be induced to trust in the 
goodness which their Heavenly Father has placed around them ; would 
they discard those doubts and abandon that defiance which implies a 
belief only in the existence of evil. 

With regard to the subject on which recent comments have been 
based, horsemen should order their servants never to walk through a 
doorway by the side of the quadruped, which general belief supposes to 
be led through such openings. 

A boy should not be employed in such an office. Prior to leaving 
the building, the groom should place himself directly in front of his 
charge. A short hold of either rein should then be taken in each hand. 
When there located, he can with ease and certainty guide the head of 
the horse. The motions of the head regulate the movements of the 
body, and having the controlling power entirely at his command, the 
servant should commence to back slowly out of the stable. However, 
there is one objection to the proposed method, which is the rightful 
mode of proceeding. In the majority of London stables there is but 
one man, who acts as groom, as coachman, and occasionally as pad 
groom, or the servant who rides after his employer. This personage 
being in front of the creature's nose, should the horse sneeze, cough, 
or clear its nostrils, any ejected matter must ahght upon the highly- 
decorated garments of the man. The self-love of the individual fears 
such a mishap to the luster of his afternoon's costume; when the inter- 
ests of the proprietor are opposed to the vanity of ignorance, no spirit 
of prophecy is needed to pronounce on which side victory will be de- 
clared I These accidents may be greatly mitigated by the hat being 
laid aside, as from all else the soil may be removed, and leave no stain 
behind. 

Supposing this obvious recommendation to be adopted, should any 
symptom of alarm or any disposition to display restiveness chance to be 
exhibited, progress must be immediately stopped; nqr ought it to be 
again resumed, until the animal has thoroughly recovered its composure. 
No matter how long a period may be required to restore tranquillity, the 
groom should, contentedly, continue stationary till every sign of timidity 
is banished or dispelled. In such a manner, servant and quadruped 



FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 241 

should leave the building : nor ought the man to quit his post before the 
doorway has been more than cleared. 




tEADINS A HORSE THROUGH THE STABLE DOORWAY. 



It must certainly be read with a sensation of surprise that, since a 
stable was first erected, horses have been constantly injured by passing 
through narrow doorways. It will assuredly excite wonder that, after 
centuries of experience, enforced by serious loss, the easy, safe, and 
natural remedy for such miscalled "accidents" needs to be gravely 
pointed out, or to be promulgated as it were a novel suggestion. The 
mind of the master has, however, been otherwise engaged ; the horse 
has never been regarded as a living creature, having certain attributes 
and rights, with which all keepers of the quadrupeds must comply. It 
is rather viewed as "something" absolutely given to mankind, concern- 
ing which the human being has, therefore, merely to consult his will and 
his pleasure. Consequently, when regulations are formed for the gov- 
ernment of the equine race, these are never framed as though there 

16 



242 FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 

were the habits, the instincts, and the wants of an existence to be con- 
sidered. 

The assumed evil disposition of the most placid of beings has been 
wrongfully abused as the cause of every injury. The possibility of so 
groundless a reason being advanced to cover that carelessness which 
provoked punishment, is by no means complimentary to the wisdom of 
mankind. The care needful for the safe guidance of a timid animal is 
denied; the trifling outlay which would secure the immunity of the 
creature is selfishly withheld. Nevertheless, how frequent and how 
poignant is the lamentation, which complains that horse flesh is a "very 
hazardous species of property !" Yet, when investigated, what does the 
cry import, more than that a beautiful living body is not sent upon earth 
superior to man's power of abuse ? 

Nature endowed the horse with every faculty needed to enjoy the 
freest existence on the most extended plane. It was created the grace- 
ful embodiment of the wildest liberty ! The classic mind rightfully re- 
cognized its attributes ; for by it, as Pegasus, the boldest flight of a poet's 
fancy was significantly allegorized. The ancient intellect, in its fresh- 
ness, beheld in the steed the fitting representative of that which prisons 
should not confine, neither should chains fetter. Yet, formerly, the full 
truthfulness of the image was but partially demonstrated. Years of 
after-experience have shown the animal can thrive in opposite regions ; 
it can live on almost every variety of sustenance; it propagates its race 
under the extremes of too much care and of absolute neglect; the creat- 
ure which man sorrows over as so very delicate has the strength of a 
giant, the docility of a dog, and a constitution which is well characterized 
by a proverbial expression, "strong as a horse !" 

The boasted civilization of the present age has degraded the animal 
into a living type of stagnant misery ! It was gifted by its Creator with 
a speed which defied pursuit ; with a sight which could endure the sun's 
fiercest ray, or could penetrate the darkness of the night; and it was 
gifted with the recognition which is telescopic in its range of inquiry. 
It was sent upon this earth with an ample nostril, and a sense of smell 
capable of appreciating the varied odors of an Eastern plain. How has 
human perversity distorted the intentions of Beneficence ! Now it is 
locked into an outhouse, where either total darkness prevails, or the eye 
is fastened close to a whitened surface. It is tied to a manger, while the 
floor on which it stands so slants as must banish ease from the feet, and 
the partitions which confine the body prevent rest from change of posi- 
tion. If the place is cold, the creature's home is possessed of no means 
to counteract the efi"ect. If it should be warm, it is contaminated by 
the fermentation of filth ; the air is loaded with gas, which must pain 



FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 243 

the nerves, occasion the eyes to smart, disgust the fine sense of smell, 
and destroy the health by preventing perfect oxygenation of the blood. 

Misery, solitude, and confinement will generate disease in a man. 
Wherefore should an animal be esteemed superior to such influences ? 
Impure air, sameness of food, and being tied to a manger, inducing fee- 
ble bodily health, gradually undermine the powerful equine constitution. 
Other evils, of a local nature, result fi'om causes which might easily be 
removed, were man, in his wisdom, only convinced such influences ought 
to be destroyed. The forelegs of the stabled horse are always the first 
to yield. Yet the prisoner may endure severe lameness in these mem- 
bers, and, nevertheless, the body be so slightly sympathetic with the 
aflSiction as actually to lay on fat. It is diS"erent with the hinder limbs ! 
Should one of these last be injured, the entire frame languishes. The 
quadruped then evidently pines in torture, and its flesh sensibly wastes. 

Very different is the manner in which various physiologists account 
for this peculiarity. Some appeal to the greater proximity of> the an- 
terior extremities to the heart, or to the center of circulation. That, 
perhaps, is the generally received doctrine ; but as the free circulation of 
the blood is essential to the healthy functions of the nerves, it is difficult 
to comprehend why nearness to the heart should deprive a nerve of its 
ability to communicate sensation. The head is supposed to be rendered 
conspicuously sensitive, because of the great proportionate quantity of 
blood which circulates in that region. The pretended rule, therefore, 
will not bear the test of general application ; it must be discarded as an 
assertion boldly put forward to cover ignorance. 

The forefeet of the horse are those portions of the frame which have 
to endure the utmost limits of mortal perversity. The flooring of the 
stall invariably inclines from the manger to the gangway. The hind 
hoofs may, should the animal hang back the full length of its collar-rope, 
rest in the open drain with the toes downward ; or the hind hoofs may, 
in some cases, stand upon the gangway, the width of which the gutter 
defines. The front limbs, however, can scarcely change their position. 
The hoofs must rest upon the slanting bricks, which incline the anterior 
of the foot in the upward direction. The forelegs must sustain, and 
continue subject to the unnatural stress of their enforced position. 
This silly and arbitrary arrangement in some measure accounts for the 
fact that the front limbs of the horse are the first parts of the body to 
fail, for these parts never, in the stable, are capable of rest, nor can they 
be sensible to ease. 

It has, of late years, become the general practice to bleed the horse 
from the sole of the forefoot. When such a custom is adopted, the 
first portion of blood extracted is, commonly, cold as spring-water, or 



24^ 



FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 



from thirty to forty degrees below the standard recognized as "blood 
heat." Now, a certain warmth is imperative to the existence of vitality, 
which is arrested so soon as the natural heat of the body is sensibly 
diminished. The functions are stayed when any region has parted with 
its caloric. Dentists take advantage of this fact when, after having 
employed the chilling process, they extract a tooth without pain. Cold, 
therefore, which can destroy sensation in the human jaw, likewise ren- 
ders the foot of the horse insensible to agony. 

But why is the foreleg subject to a degree- of cold which does not also 
affect the hind extremity of the animal ? Because the stable permits the 
hind limbs to enjoy the greater freedom of action. These may be in 
perpetual motion ; for the posterior members are situated at the boundary 
of a circle, of which the ring of the manger represents the center or 
fixed point. Has the reader ever beheld a column of soldiers move in 
obedience to the officer's command, to "Wheel ?" The man at one end 
of the line can hardly run quickly enough, while he who is placed at the 
opposite extremity is troubled to be sufficiently slow in his movements. 
Now, the hind legs of the horse represent the man who has to scamper, 
and are sensibly exerted whenever the quadruped "comes over;" the 
anterior extremities are types of the soldier who scarcely moves, for 
very seldom are these members necessitated to change their position. 
Their stable office is to uphold the body, and 
to remain fixed while the toes are inclined up- 
ward ! Were the motion permitted to both 
extremities equalized, the fore limbs would 
naturally be the warmest, since the great dis- 
tance from the heart and the greater angularity 
of form must render circulation of caloric 
within the quarters much more tardy. 

But why do not other parts become as cold 
as the fore limbs, when all belong to the same 
body, and all derive their heat from one com- 
mon medium, or from the same circulation? 
The veins in the legs have valves. Then, if 
these vessels are so provided, and the distribu- 
tion of warmth is one of the purposes of the 
cireulation, why do not the valves favor the 
return of blood from the foot, and thus generate 
heat within the member ? When answering 
the foregoing inquiries, the reader's patience is entreated, since the reply, 
to be intelligible, cannot also be concise. 

Anatomy affords the best explanation of the peculiarity. On remov- 




TALVES OF THE TEINS IN THE LEG. 

1. The valves of the vein laid 
against the side of the vessel by 
the upward current of the blood. 

2. The valves projected from 
the sides of the vessel by the at- 
tempted retrogression of the vital 
stream. 



FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 245 

ing the horny case from the hoof of a dead horse, a secretive membrane 
is exposed ; this membrane constantly renews the horn. Beneath the 
secreting surface, a complex mesh-work of large veins is discovered, 
which, by their size, inform us they serve as receptacles or sinuses quite 
as much as vessels. These veins have no valves, though such are com- 
monly present in other tubes of the same class. The absence of this 
provision is, in them, remarkable, because the blood has to move against 
gravity ; valves are a means instituted to favor the current under cir- 
cumstances of this nature. Yalves are composed of duplicatures of the 
lining membrane of veins : when the venous current flows toward the 
heart, these valves, by the impetus of the stream, are forced upward, 
and remain close against the sides of the vessels; but, should the 
slightest retrogression of the current be endangered, the backward mo- 
tion of the blood carries the numerous valves outward or downward, and 
effectually locks the interior of the veins. 

The anatomy of the foot, however, proves the horse unsuited to con- 
finement. The animal was created to dwell upon the plain. The foot, 
for its health, requires perpetual motion. When free, or before man 
subjected it to his convenience, every bite the creature took necessitated 
a fresh step. The mesh- work of veins was large, the vessels freely com- 
municated with each other, and were devoid of valves, that the blood 
might readily flow into, while it might as readily be expelled from, the 
tubes ; and because, in the habits of her creature, nature had established 
a force which rendered the development of valves unnecessary. The 
horse, as it progressed, alternately lifted the foot from the earth and 
rested it upon the ground. When the hoof was raised, the blood rushed 
into and filled the mesh-work of veins. When the foot was again placed 
upon the soil, the superimposed weight squeezed the vessels, between the 
bones and the horn, thus pumping out the blood, or forcing it toward the 
heart. 

Blood which has become cold has lost the first of its living properties. 
Blood deprived of heat cannot support health, or supply secretion. 
Hence the feet of stabled horses — notwithstanding the care of science, 
the numerous applications, and the endless variety of shoes, all of which 
are designed to benefit the hoofs — generally become diseased. The 
quadruped of the agriculturist, although it be neglected and badly shod, 
yet, because of its slow or constant work, and habitual freedom in the 
field, usually exhibits feet which are sound and open. The donkey, 
though much abused and shamefully treated, rarely inhabits a stable, 
and more seldom enters a stall. Its feet become misshapen; but the 
curse of the gentleman's steed, foot lameness, and especially navicular 
disease, are all but unknown among this tribe of the equine race. 




UG FA-l^LTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 

The fore/^-oing statement also affords an explanation why the most 
valuable or the stabled horse is so frequently afflicted with contracted 
hoof, with brittle hoof, with an unhealthy secretion of horn, and with the 
various other ailments which may be classed under the diseases of the 
foot. It likewise supplies the most clear reason for the beginning of 
that disorder which has been denominated "the curse of good horse 
flesh" — Navicularthritis, or ulceration of the navicular bone. Bone is 
slow to take on morbid action, and ulceration is the accompaniment of 
low vitality. When the circulation is retarded, the animal powers are 
enfeebled. Ulceration, affecting a lowly organized structure, is that 
which a pathologist would anticipate as the consequence of prolonged 
iaaction. It is impossible to say what evils 
the continuance of such a condition may not 
induce ; but sand-crack, seedy-toe, and various 
painful affections can be clearly traced to have 
thus originated. 

The effect of the stable, also, accounts for 
the farmer riding his nag for many years, while 
THE VEINS OF THE HORSE'S FOOT, fsw gcntlcmen approve of a horse for saddle 

The mesh-work of veins with- purposcs after it has passcd the sixth sum- 
out valves, which are situated ira- r l tr 

mediately under the secretive mem- jj^er, notwithstanding their animals are better 

brane of the hoof. ' " 

groomed and more carefully fed. In the coun- 
try, farmers' quadrupeds are generally turned into the field, and have to 
walk for their living. Grass is a poor food ; but the constant exercise 
keeps the creatures in sounder health than can be maintained by better 
sustenance combined with perpetual confinement. 

An absolute necessity for the constant movement of the feet is to be 
deduced from the arrangement of the vessels. The arterial blood falls 
almost perpendicularly down the fore limb, while the venous blood has 
likewise to ascend against gravity. This arrangement rendered impera- 
tive some propelling force to return the effete fluid ; hence the necessity 
for the perpetual employment of the squeezing or pumping action of the 
hoof The habits of the animal to graze only from choice portions of 
the herbage occasion a vast distance to be traversed ; but such leisurely 
sauntering was, by nature, kindly intended to keep sound that portion of 
the frame on the integrity of which the safety, the welfare, and the 
pleasure of her creation was dependent. 

"Certainly," the reader may exclaim; "but if the warmth of the 
body is dependent upon arterial blood, the coldness of a part cannot be 
accounted for by stating the facility afforded for the oxygenating current 
reaching that which is chilled." Very true. But before any substance 
can fall down, the space through which it has to pass in its descent must 



FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 



24f 



be made clear. The quickness with which the arterial blood reaches the 
foot is, consequently, regulated by the speed with which the venous cur- 
rent is expelled. The hoof of the stabled horse is constantly congested, 
or the effete blood accumulates within the horn ; because motion, in the 
venous stream, is impossible. The current hardly stirs, and the fluid, 
by stagnation, becomes cold. Did the possibility of action allow the 
pumping force fair play, then the forefoot would, doubtless, be as warm 
as other parts of the animal's system. 

Anatomy demonstrates these facts ; but the habits of the quadruped 
have never been attentively noted. Had the instinctive promptings of 
its desires been studied with a wish to profit by such instruction, stables 
had been erected for some better purpose than to closely confine an 
active animal, and to illustrate the earliest principles of surface drainage. 
As it is, a building has been raised totally inadequate to its pretended 
uses, and one in the arrangement of which the convenience of man has 
alone been consulted. In such a place, a horse has, for ages, been im- 






' -i^^^f 








HORSES, WHEN FKEE TO CHOOSE, ALWAYS STAND 'WITH THE FOREHOOFS ON A LOWER lEVEI- THAN THAT 
OCCUPIED BY THE HIND FEET. 



prisoned. It is true, the captive did not thrive. Yet this consequence 
was rather excused than inquired into. Humanity has endured loss, 



^48 



FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 



disappointment, and vexation; but pride found it more agreeable to 
accuse tbe works of Heaven with the results of its own culpability thau 
to suspect the adequacy of its own institutions. Natm'e has, in vain, 
labored to instruct the waywardness of conceit. Mankind could endure 
all evils before it could afford to question the perfectibility of mortal 
invention. 

Horses, when disposed to remain stationary, always select ground 
where the forefeet can occupy a position lower than the hind legs. In 
stables, this inclination is reversed, the hinder limbs invariably resting on 
an inferior level to what the forefeet range upon. The motive upon 
which the dictates of nature are outraged is the facility which a floor 
slanting in the backward direction affords for surface moisture to flow 
into the open gutter that runs along the extreme margin of the gangway. 
Science, evidently, has not been consulted in an arrangement which sac- 
rifices the health and the comfort of an inhabitant of the stall to obtain so 
obvious, gross, and poor an advantage. Stables, evidently, were built 
only to please the fancy, and propitiate the prejudices of ignorant pro- 
prietors. No thought was bestowed upon the quadrupeds such edifices 
pretended to accommodate. The consequence is seen in the discomfort, 
torture, and the speedy decline of lives which are forced to dwell within 
one of these notorious charnel-houses. 







WHEN CONFINED TO THE STALL, HORSES GENERALLY STAND WITH THE HIND FEET UPON A LOWEE LEVEL 
THAN THE FOKEHOOFS OCCUPY. 



Knowing the object desired, the reader will naturally expect to be in- 
formed whether dryness is secured by the present arrangement. "When 
answering this inquiry, the author must describe the general plan accord- 



FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 249 

ing to which the floors of most stables are laid down. The pavement 
of the stalls is composed of small, hard bricks, known as "Dutch Clink- 
ers. " Bricks, however nicely they may be placed, cannot form an abso- 
lutely smooth or even surface. They must present spaces in which fluid 
will be retained ; and, being porous, bricks cannot prevent effluvia from 
rising through their substances, or cannot hinder liquid from percolating 
into the soil on which they rest. The urine acquires acrimony as it 
corrupts beneath the pavement, which makes a renewal of the flooring 
of a stall an efficient reason for ordering the inhabitants of a large build- 
ing to be removed, since the pavement will have to be disturbed. 

To demonstrate that the urine of the horse undergoes a speedy change 
when exposed to the action of the atmosphere : the fresh fluid will pro- 
duce no change in litmus paper ; but after a few minutes' exposure, the 
liquid changes the blue dye to a jed color, having, in the brief interval, 
become acid, and in that condition it yields strong fumes of ammoniacal 
gas. It is the presence of this gas that chiefly occasions that peculiar 
pungency which is characteristic of the stable. 

To promote such an alteration, and to procure from the excretion the 
greatest possible amount of noxious effluvia, the liquid is made to gently 
flow over an open, a rough, an uneven, and a slanting surface ; thus sub- 
jecting the greatest possible quantity to the direct action of the atmos- 
phere. Should not the whole change be thereby accomplished, the fluid 
slowly drains into an open gutter, which slopes so gradually that its 
contents frequently refuse to move. Had the architect who originally 
laid down the plan of a modern stable designed to make the interior 
poisonous, it would have been difficult, having no more active agent at 
command, for him to have conceived means better calculated to fulfill 
his object. 

The groom, to warm the place, stops up every crevice through which 
the vapor could escape, or pure air could find admission. Many stable- 
men, also, exclude the light, under a groundless notion that horses thrive 
best when in the dark. Darkness does not necessarily lead to sleep — 
it simply disables one of the senses ; thereby animal life is deprived of a 
harmless enjoyment, while at the same time the exclusion of light causes 
the eye to shrink from the glare of day ; while the continuance of the 
evil is likely to induce blindness. Hours of weariness, passed in a con- 
fined space, and within a tainted atmosphere, are strange means when 
employed to promote extraordinary thrift. More especially, when we 
consider that the inclination of the floor forbids rest to the feet, while 
the exclusion of light incapacitates all visual recreation. 

Horses, not having a knowledge of chemistry, cannot, of themselves, 
purify the air ; but certain animals, instructed by their instincts, do all 



280 



FAULTS INSEPARABLE PROM STABLES. 



in their power to counteract tlie evils wliicli tlie slanting nature of the 
flooring has a tendency to produce. Such steeds lean first upon one foot 
and then upon the other ; thus the entire weight bears alternately upon 
either hoof, while each is in turn released from all pressure. If not 
checked, quadrupeds will often continue thus employed for hours. The 
creatures know nothing concerning the structures of their own bodies; 
but the most learned physiologist could not have invented any plan bet- 
ter calculated to supply the pumping action which accompanies the 
walk, and promotes a healthy circulation, thus securing soundness to 
the hoof. 

Indeed, human intelligence would appear to be incapable of appre- 
ciating the benefit which must result from the simple artifice of an inferior 
being. The animal which is detected when endeavoring to correct the 
evils of mortal perversity, is always severely punished. The indulgence 
is, by the pure mind of the groom, recognized as a wicked "vice," and 
is stigmatized under the term of "weaving." The highly intelligent 








horse is fiercely lashed for laboring to prevent the consequences of man's 
stupidity, and for striving to improve its master's property, while solac- 
ing its confinement, by an act as harmless as it is innocent. 

A creature standing on a slanting floor, with the head pointing to the 
most elevated part of the incline, occupies the same relative situation 



FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 251 

which the body would possess, were the quadruped journeying up the 
side of a hill. By the sloping nature of the ground, the weight of the 
frame is partially removed from the insensitive bones ; and to such an 
extent as the osseous structures are relieved, is the burden thrown upon 
the flexor tendons, or upon the back sinews. It is imperative for the 
health of bone that it should endure almost continuous pressure. On 
the other hand, tendon or sinew feels no pain from occasional tension ; 
but pressure, if long sustained, produces the acutest agony. When one 
structure is denied to fulfill the uses for which it was created, and another 
structure is condemned to discharge services for which it never was 
designed, the first soon degenerates, from not having sufficient employ- 
ment, while the second speedily becomes disorganized, from the necessity 
to perform too much labor. 

Bone, tendon, and cellular tissue almost compose the shin and the foot 
of the animal. Horsemen know how difficult it is to make and keep the 
legs of a stabled quadruped hard and fine. It is, however, folly to rUb 
and to bandage while inactivity is permitted to generate congestion. 
No application can possibly destroy the effect while that cause is allowed 
to be in operation. Nor can the foot secrete sound horn while the exer- 
cise which is imperative for health is withheld. No shoe can give that 
which is dependent upon motion. There are many more pieces of iron 
curved, hollowed, raised, and indented, than the author has cared to 
enumerate. All, however, have failed to restore health to the hoof. 
Some, by enforcing a change of position, may, for a time, appear to 
mitigate the evil ; but none can, in the long run, cure the disorder under 
which the horn evidently suffers. 

Anointing the hoof, or using various stoppings, are equally fruitless. 
Both leg and foot, after a day of hard labor, only return to the stable to 
undergo more excessive, because more continuous, fatigue. The sloping 
pavement renders ease an impossibility. The exhaustion cannot be ban- 
ished from limbs forced to occupy such ground. Longer rest but induces 
additional enervation. 

The inquiry suggested by the above remarks is, whether a horse does 
not return with eagerness to its stable ? Is it natural for a creature to 
. exhibit eagerness when it enters the abode of its agony ? In answer to 
the foregoing, it may be advanced that all grades of inferior life which 
exist under the care of man are in so unnatural a condition as allows no 
inference to be drawn from apparently voluntary actions. Birds were 
intended to cleave the air. No one can believe but the goldfinch must 
be more happy when bathing its wings in light, and freely sailing on the 
atmosphere, than when the gay spirit is cramped within one of those 
small cages in which certain people delight to confine the joyous heart. 



25^ FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 

Yet, let the bird be captured and immured within such a space. After 
some time, it will require perseverance to drive the feathered captive 
from the prison which must make stiff the wings and cause the breast 
to sorrow. The act, however, will be difficult; when accomplished, 
unless the wire door be closed, the shelter of its inadequate abode will 
be speedily sought again. Do birds, therefore, love to be caught, and 
to be caged ? 

Should the above instance not be perfectly satisfactory, another is 
ready to illustrate the subject. Everybody has heard of the French 
noble, who had grown old, gray, and feeble while in durance. The 
gentleman, when released from the Bastile, shed tears, entreating to be 
restored to his cell. Are we, therefore, to infer that the French love 
imprisonment? Each case may, perhaps, be interpreted to exemplify 
the power of habit. One year of sheer animal life will stand against a 
long term of human existence. A horse lives in the facts which sur- 
round it. It exists in the present, and has no imagination to embitter 
the hardness of its fate. Man is always escaping from the circumstances 
which engirt him; he is always fancying something brighter than his 
present lot, or is straining toward the future ; he may be said to exist 
most in anticipation. Give hilmanity no prospect to dwell upon, deny 
it all hope to contemplate, the soul sinks into utter dejection ; and a 
palace or a jail are alike regarded with indifference. 

The horse was, by nature, formed to be the companion and the servant 
of man. The original of the breed, which in animals intended for the 
wild state it is difficult to destroy, is, with the equine race, unknown. 
It is, in heart, in body, and iu soul, the obedient servant and willing 
helpmate of the human race. It does not submit to its doom ; its lot is 
accepted as a foregone decision ; it has abandoned every thought of lib- 
erty, and has embraced its fate. But is it worthy of the intelligence to 
which the creature has devoted its existence, to convert such perfect and 
entire abnegation of self into a reason for perpetuating those tortures 
that were invented by barbarity, and are, it is hoped, only continued 
through ignorance ? The reader needs no prompting to afford the fitting 
answer. 

This question is not affected by the love or hatred of the animal for 
the stable. The only point which really remains to be decided is, does 
the stable, as at present built, represent the most healthful and the most 
pleasant abode which man's imagination can picture for his tired and 
submissive companion ? If it be possible to suppose a better home for 
the quadruped, then it becomes the moral duty of man to raise such a 
structure. All pretenses about the sacrifice of existing property and the 
regards for pecuniary outlay are of no weight when urged against a 



FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 



253 



rightful obligation. Man is blessed with reason, and is constituted, in 
this world, the only judge of his own actions. So high a privilege should 
bind him to be even more than just in his decisions ! 

To return. The reader will observe that, in the sketch No. 1, the 
bones rest one upon the other. That arrangement ensues when the 



No. 1. 





THB STRESS ENDURED BY THE DIFFERENT STRUCTURES WHICn COMPOSE THE LEG OF THE HORSE 13 
DEPENDENT UPON THE POSITION OF THE FOOT. 



animal descends an incline. There can exist no man but must have en- 
joyed the ease which is imparted by walking down a slop-e. Every person 
must also be acquainted with the fatigue consequent upon ascending an 
acclivity. The effect is generally explained by stating that, in one case 
progression is favored by, while in the other it is made in opposition to, 
gravitation. Such a cause, certainly, is in operation ; but the dififerent 
structures on which the strain reposes, when moving in opposite direc- 
tions, to the author's mind supply a better illustration of the fact. 

Do not muscles, and does not tendon participate in the burden which 
is upheld by bone ? Assuredly they do ; but in various degrees. No 
limb can move unless some muscle contracts. Every muscle in the body 
arises from bone, and is inserted into bone by the interposition of liga- 
mentous fiber. Before a member can be elevated or depressed, some 
muscle must drag from some bone, that it may move some other bone 
more distantly situated. Then, tendon cannot escape strain, since in no 
possible attitude is every portion of the frame in absolute rest. Motor 
muscles, however, generally exist in pairs. They are spoken of as ele- 
vators and as depressors, or as flexors and as extensors. Their uses are 
opposite, but not opposed. When one set works, the other is inactive. 

The bones in the sketch, indicated by No. 2, evidently press against 



254 



FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 



the backward tendons. Such a position, if long maintained, leads to 
fatigue, and ultimately induces pain. Man cannot enjoy rest under such 
a condition of parts ; though both tendon and muscle are benefited by 
brief tension, continuous strain soon exhausts either structure. The 
reader must have beheld two travelers meet upon a mountain's side. 
One shall be descending from the heights, the other is ascending from the 
valley. But while the men converse, they do not hold their relative 
positions one to the other. Each, without thought or reflection, ex- 
changes it for the horizontal situation; while their dialogue lasts, both 
present their sides to the spectator. 

This is precisely what many horses learn to do. Much indignation 
is always excited in the groom's bosom because an animal, prompted by 
its instinct, has discovered a method of easing its limbs and of saving 
the master's property from injury. Standing for hours upon an acclivity, 
however gradual, throws stress upon the back sinews, and must pain the 
tired limbs. To counteract that effect, the animal turns the head from 




STANDING ACROSS THE STALL. 



the manger, and stands across the flooring of the stall, after the same 
plan as actuated the two travelers when they paused upon the mountain 



FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 255 

side. But the conduct which in man draws forth no remark, when ex- 
hibited by the horse is abominated by a virtuous groom as the declara- 
tion of inveterate "vice." 

Pitiable vice ! It is melancholy to behold a man cruelly punish an 
animal for a reasonable act. But heavy castigation does every horse 
receive that is guilty of exercising the instinct with which Heaven has 
endowed it. The groom, being excited to resentment, grasps a stick and 
deals well-aimed blows, while his voice shouts forth harsh words, which 
pain and terrify the patient creature, whose only faults were too much 
sense and too great feeling. 

When a horse is terrified, danger is likely to ensue in exact proportion 
to the smallness of that space which can be commanded for the display 
of its alarm. The timidity being excessive, of course the contortions 
of the body are equally demonstrative. The animal dashes about, re- 
gardless of its own safety, and heedless of those around it. It sees 
nothing; it can remember nothing, save only that some horrid torture is 
imminent. Its struggles are wild efforts to escape. In the momentary 
panic, it may break, or it may damage anything. It may kill any per- 
son who shall stand in its way, or, in the furore of its agony, it may, 
through misadventure, do serious mischief to its own body. 

Such consequences are always to be expected when a horse is beaten 
within the stable while the head is fastened to the manger. By the 
latter circumstance, the probability of an injury is increased. Harm, 
however, to his employer's property, danger to his own person, and peril 
to the safety of his charge, the groom despises, or willingly hazards, 
rather than allow an odious "vice" to escape correction! No severity, 
however, can teach a quadruped not to seek the ease which it has dis- 
covered the means of realizing. When the groom is absent, or during 
the night, the act of "wickedness" is always renewed, although, in the 
presence of its attendant, the indulgence may be suppressed. 

Slanting pavements likewise instruct horses in the practice of other 
habits which the groom, in his peculiar sphere of mental elevation, can- 
not otherwise than recognize as "vices." As such, he punishes their 
exhibition without mercy. Some public-house companion may visit the 
stable-man while he is dozing through the afternoon upon the locker. 
Most servants notoriously have no choice between stubborn duty and 
the relaxation of "pipe and pot." The groom is always the ready 
victim of temptation, and upon the slightest persuasion quits the stable 
for the parlor "over the road." Some sad and patient animal may have 
been silently watching, longing for the man's absence, during a consid- 
erable period ; no sooner does the creature hear the door slam, than it 
begins to take small steps backward. The horse thus feels its way till 



256 



FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 



the sudden fall in the pavement announces that the posterior hoofs have 
reached the gutter, within the hollow of which the toes are immediately 
depressed. 

Such an attitude being attained, all stress upon the flexor tendons is 
removed from the backward legs. The bones, while the toes can bo 
depressed, sustain the weight of the haunches. Partial ease is thereby- 
secured, and with the new sensation, a numbing torpor creeps over the 
animal. Its feelings are soothed by present pleasure, and the senses, 
thrown off their guard, grow dead to all outward impressions. The 
victim of former ages, when taken from the rack, must still have endured 
agony ; but the lull occasioned by the cessation of acute torture threw 
the sufferer into a lethargy, which is reported to have resembled the 
luxury of sleep. So is it with the horse. The forefeet are still under- 
going torment; but, under partial relief, the animal seems to doze, or 
becomes unconscious to the facts around it. 




THE HIND FEET ARE EASED IN THE GUTTER. 



The horse is tranquilly luxuriating, and cozily reveling in the moments 
of forbidden ease, when the groom quietly returns to the stable. His 
eyes rest upon that "abominable wicious creatur, agin brakin o' the 
lawl" The animal has actually dared to indulge in so much ease as 



FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 25T 

instinct can discover among the cruel invention of centuries by which 
its body is surrounded. The quadruped excites the more anger by 
seeming to enjoy its wickedness I The groom is infuriated by the con- 
templation of such depravity! Beer and tobacco stimulate his indig- 
nation. He creeps slyly toward the whip, and commences to lash the 
culprit. 

Some persons may be inclined to suppose the being who has so recently 
deserted his post, ought to look indulgently on what he conceives to be 
the fault of another and of an inferior animal. But the vile always are 
the pitiless ; for charity is the foundation of all goodness. The lash is 
plied with energy — the groom, between every blow, lamenting "that he 
can't step away for a few moments, 'thout the plaguey brute being at its 
old tricks agin." The thong curls round the quivering and perspiring 
body. But severity in these cases is useless. The animal has discov- 
ered a partial solace for its misery; it cannot choose but indulge its 
pleasurable knowledge at the very next opportunity. 

The stabled horse, however, has not only to stand upon a slanting 
pavement through the day; it must throughout the night lie upon a 
similar incline, rendered slippery by a covering of dry and polished 
straw. Did the reader ever attempt to repose upon a bed slightly out 
of the horizontal ? The body cannot rest on such a couch. The sensa- 
tion communicated is, an incessant fear of slipping off. The sleeper is 
constantly wakened up, with a vivid impression that he is falling, or has 
fallen, on to the floor. The night is passed in discomfort. But what is 
the excitability of a human being, when compared with the excessive 
fear which haunts the most timid of all created lives ? 

Man, when in a bed of the above description, naturally grows rest- 
less; the bed-clothes are disturbed, and the body laid in an opposite 
direction. All will not allay anxiety; at last the would-be sleeper is 
obliged to remain contented with occasionally nudging himself higher 
on to the pillow. Like man is the horse in many things, even as though 
the animal studied and mimicked its master. Yet the inflation of pride 
hails the resemblance as an insult, and regards animals as things created 
for use, and doomed to bejubservient to the caprice of mortal pleasure. 

Precisely as man would behave, did he chance to get upon a slanting 
bed, the animal conducts itself, only with such difference as the circum- 
stances enforce. The human being reclines his head upon a pillow. 
But the horse sinks the head while it slumbers. Man, therefore, nearly 
touches the board situated at the topmost part of his resting-place. 
Three feet, or even a larger space, may divide the quadruped from the 
stable wall which forms the extremity of its couch. The floor on which 
the creature lies is strewn with straw. That condition, however, rather 

17 



258 FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 

aggravates the inclination of the resting-place, for dried and glossy stems 
of a circular figure accelerate more than they retard the backward gravi- 
tation of the body. 

The creature therefore — unable to reason, acting under the impression 
that its body is continually sliding backward — endeavors to recover its 
original position by nudging itself repeatedly forward. The horse has 
neither light to see, hands to feel, nor sense to measure the distance. 
Imagination is the only dependence which it can boast of. The advances 
become energetic in proportion as the supposition which provokes them 
is annoying. The annoyance is regulated by the irritability of the quad- 
ruped. Some stable inhabitants grow more morbidly nervous ; with 
these, the advances are proportionably frequent; so that the head of 
the captive, guided by the collar-rope, is speedily brought into violent 
contact with the further end wall of its compartment. 

Not comprehending the meaning of the blow, but suffering from pain 
and fright, the animal attempts to rise. The commencement of this 
movement always is the elevation of the head, which, after being raised, 
is strained backward. This action is a necessity of its existence ; and, 
dreaming of no danger, the quadruped essays to fulfill the natural law. 
The head, however, which has struck the wall of the stable, must at the 
time he immediately under the manger. Imagining no impediment, the 
animal exalts its crest with that impetuosity which characterizes all 
the motions of the horse. It strikes against the manger, and a heavy 
concussion sends the member into its original abiding-place. 

The stricken creature cannot comprehend the reason of those blows 
it has received. But it is often chastised for nothing, so beating is to it 
almost a matter of course. It crouches in teiTor for some moments, no 
doubt hoping its tormentor may move onward. Then, as the strained 
senses can detect no sound, it ventures once more to raise its head. The 
result is the same as it was before. The horse, after repeated efforts, 
becomes alarmed. Mad with fear, and wild with desperation, it now 
exerts its utmost strength. The contention may continue until the 
groom enters the stable in the morning, when, bruised and panting, 
its head swollen and t>leeding, its strength exhausted and almost its 
life expended, the wretched animal is discovered prostrated upon the 
pavement. 

This consequence of confining an animal in darkness is the serious, 
and probably the permanent, deterioration of property. At the best, 
the services are lost for many days. In any case, time must be allowed 
for the necessary recovery. Few, very few people have the generosity 
to recognize, and even fewer still are educated to perceive, that a life has 
been for many hours breathing in agony, and that the existence may 



FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 



259 



hereafter, notwithstanding all the present state of art can accomplish, 
probably drag its wretchedness about the world in a crippled condition 




CAST UNDER THE MAROEB. 



No person living possibly will, when inspecting the maimed and disabled 
horse, reflect upon the fate which dooms the animal to years of sorrow, 
laboring through the lowest species of earthly trial; no one will heave 
a sigh that such a fate overtook a placid, gentle, and obedient creature, 
which was dangerously and cruelly confined during the time of serving 
a being who was bound to study the necessities and administer to the 
happiness of the life over which he had assumed absolute authority. 

Other evils also spring from obliging the horse to sleep on a surface 
which is not level. The head of the animal being fastened to the man- 
ger, it has no choice but to couch where it stands, or to remain erect and 
endeavor to sleep in that position. There are quadrupeds which adopt and 
which maintain the last alternative : their bodies never repose on earth, 
until their injuries and their wrong are engulfed in the common doom. 

It is not every animal, however, which can hold to such a resolution, 
in spite of the aches and agonies by which it must be enforced. Certain 
creatures, feeling their bodies glide backward, rather facilitate than en- 
deavor to counteract the motion — hoping to soon rest upon the gangway, 
which experience has taught them terminates the stall. Others sleep so 
soundly as to be unconscious of the movement; while a third class, 
having attained philosophy through a life of misfortune, pay but little 
regard to the circumstances around them. In all instances the frame 



260 



FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 



descends the slope, till the quarters pass the gutter and repose upon the 
gangway. 




A HORSE STANDING T?BILE IT SLEEPS. 



Yet, before the body can move such a distance from the manger, the 
neck and the collar-rope must both be strained. However, finding its 
body, at length, to be comfortably located, the animal meditates com- 
posing itself to sleep, which is not to be done while the neck is out- 
stretched and the chain is raised far above its natural position. To 
accomplish this, the muzzle must be considerably lowered and the neck 
be retracted; but, before either can be done, the collar-rope must be 
loosened. It is obviously impossible to change the attitude while that 
fastening remains in a state of tension : the position in which the horse 
invariably sleeps cannot, therefore, be assumed. 

In this dilemma, the intelligent quadruped determines to rise and to 
return to the manger. But a natural law has ordained that before the 
horse gets up from the ground, the head shall be thrown backward; 
thus lightening the weight upon the fore quarters, which parts are 
always first raised. The straightening of the front limbs is thereby 
facilitated. But this movement cannot now be put in practice because 
of the rope which retains the neck outstretched. Struggles are useless ; 



FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 



261 



the position is fixed, and the creature is powerless to alter it, Tne nmbs 
are free, but these can only be used to kick and to aggravate the pain 
of the situation. The animal is a prisoner, and so it must remain, vainly 
contending with its doom, and exhausting its energies in fruitless efforts 
to escape. 

Assuredly, he should have possessed an enlarged capacity for evil 
who first conceived the notion of making a living creature, which was 
conspicuous for its strength, its activity, and its timidity, exist in a niche ; 
to have its head tied up by day and by night ; and subsequently doomed 
it to rest upon a floor which sloped in a painful and an unnatural direc- 
tion. No surer means could have been invented of shortening the life, 
of deforming the body, or of injuring the limbs of the creature in whose 
prosperity man conceived he had "a property." Arms of all kinds, and 
of every description, the quadruped might have been safely trusted with ; 




LYING ON THE GANGWAY, 



but to require of activity, that it should be fettered and forego all motion ; 
to demand of timidity, that it should be bound or imprisoned, and not 
display sensibility ; to ask, that strength should endure and not attempt 
to struggle, was surely expecting too much from an inhabitant of a 
world in which fear, as the natural instructor of organized beings, is 
universally prevalent. 

The horse, thus located, was only presented with the ready means of 
doing injury to itself It was provided with the only weapons which 



262 FAULTS INSEPARABLE FROM STABLES. 

nature had empowered it to employ. A more Hinwholesome, a more 
unnatural, or a more dangerous abode for any of the equine race than 
the stall of a modern stable, it would be impossible for the utmost 
stretch of the most excited malignity to imagine. Still, daily accidents, 
which must have occurred for centuries, seem to be incapable of instruct- 
ing mankind, where the welfare of another and of an inferior being is 
concerned 1 

Animals have been lamed ; have lost the power of vision ; have bred 
terrible disorders, and have been found stretched in death upon the straw 
bed, in consequence of the folly which has persisted in building modern 
stables. Such accidents must, as a necessity, continue so long as these 
edifices are erected. They are totally unsuited for the creature which 
they torture, cripple, and confine. Yet, because such abominations are 
sanctioned by custom and approved by ignorance, it is far more than 
probable that the author's exposure of their unfitness will be read with 
amusement, and admitted to be just ; but the scourge which is recom- 
mended by its existence and patronized for its convenience will still be 
perpetuated. It may continue to disgrace this country for more than 
another century, although the judicious outlay of a few shillings would 
greatly amend even modern stables. Banish the stalls, and divide the 
interior into loose boxes. Lower the mangers and the hay racks to the 
floor. Soften *the food before presenting it to the quadruped; and 
abolish the loft, now placed over where the animals repose. Allow the 
entire space, from the ground to the roof, for the huge lungs to breathe 
in. Improve the drainage. Warm the building by means of a slow 
combustion and by water pipes. To effect all this should not cost very 
much ; and, as his reward, man would gain the longer service of his 
slave, together with an inward approval, springing from a consciousness 
of having done his duty toward the meekness which Beneficence has 
intrusted t6 his keeping. • 



CHAPTER VIII. 

THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES," WHICH ARE THE RESULTS OP 
INJURY OR OP DISEASE. 

The word "vice," when applied to tlie horse, represents any quality 
which may annoy the prejudices of the groom, or may prove displeasing 
to the expectations of the master. It is purely ridiculous to suppose 
the animal can possibly be " vicious." The simple nature of the quad- 
ruped is gifted with no power to distinguish good from evil. It lacks 
the imagination to conceive those acts which man esteems to be heroic 
or to be grand. Were the creature able to embody ideas, the race would 
possess the ability to combine; anything approaching to the present 
patient docility would then be exchanged for open rebellion against the 
earthly tyrant. 

Human intelligence, however, seems to derive a strange pleasure from 
regarding the obedient and most forgiving horse as a "vicious," a savage, 
and a most relentless "brute." There seems to exist some happiness in 
the exhibition of those cruelties which such notions alone can justify. 
It is true that such unseemly contests do not invariably terminate in 
favor of him who always originates the strife. The master, who could 
by mildness have retained his power, by resorting to blows occasionally 
becomes worsted; but the horse, although it should prove victorious, 
always has to grieve over its triumph. The prowess of the quadruped 
draws down the heaviest punishment of other members of the race, an 
individual of which the animal has defeated. 

A great many "accidents" would be avoided, and, probably, the 
amount of happiness permitted to mortals would not be materially les- 
sened, could the populace be instructed to think a horse was endowed 
with senses, was gifted with feelings, and was able, in some degree, to 
appreciate motives. Such powers are enjoyed by all the higher grades 
of animal life. In asserting this, there is not the most distant desire to 
confound the living creature with the intellectual being. Reason believes 
in and can contemplate a futurity. The human eye takes easiest cogni- 
zance of forward objects. The vision of the horse does not behold/ 

(263) 



204 THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 

objects directly in front of its head, but glances backward, without 
necessarily turning the face. Man can imagine events ere they are 
embodied facts. An animal's ideas are strictly limited by its individual 
experiences. By these, its mind is moulded and its conduct is shaped. 
It has no power to forget. The past, with it, is the present. To suffer 
once, is to endure a constant dread of suffering again. To be pained, 
is always to fear a repetition of the agony. What has been, is, so long 
as memory shall last ; for the quadruped can conceive no future on which 
to fix its thoughts, or in the contemplation of which to escape from the 
misery that begirts its existence. 

Would those persons who have no interest in any contrary opinion, 
adopt the above view of the subject, how very much of danger and of 
unpleasantness might the good people escape I It is not unusual to 
behold an elderly gentleman, of the highest respectability, flog most 
unmercifully, in the pubUc street, some inoffensive steed, until a red- 
dened face announces temper to be lost. Foot passengers look on the 
spectacle ; but no one, even in thought, condemns the needless severity. 
Hospital surgeons, however, can testify to something more permanent 
than temper being occasionally sacrificed through these unseemly con- 
tests. In such cases, man has provoked his fate. Reason, in vain, 
shows a broad and pleasant path, where dwells security. Passion blinds 
humanity, pride justifies passion, and the refuge is unheeded ! 

Will the reader kindly grant the author patience while the present 
subject is pursued a little further ? To prove the horse cannot, in any 
accepted meaning of the word, possibly be "vicious," it is only neces- 
sary to comprehend that vice of every form, whether it be lewdness, 
drunkenness, gluttony, or malice, always, in some gratification, seeks 
for a personal reward. It is no more than the concentration of selfish- 
ness. It always presupposes an intention. The difference between 
crime and insanity lies only in the idea of some recompense to be secured 
by the commission of a particular act and in sin without a motive. 
When the horse was created without ability to comprehend a future, the 
power to be "vicious" was, with the possibility of a contemplated 
motive, withheld. The creature, being unable to anticipate conse- 
quences, lacks incentive; therefore it can display no "vice," though it 
may exhibit insanity. The animal, however, may not always please its 
master; it is the "vice" of authority to call trivial offenses by harsher 
names than the actions in fairness should receive ; but no man has, 
hitherto, stigmatized the horse, which he deems "vicious," as insane. 

Having premised thus much, the author will attempt to explain some 
of the worst forms of equine "vice." 

"Rick of the back" and "chink of the back" are terms which repre- 



THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 265 

sent some indefinite injury to the spine of a horse. The quadruped is 
essentially a beast of burden. The load is commonly supported on the 
back. It is so, entirely, when the creature is used for saddle purposes ; 
and, in the heavier species of draught, the balance always inclines 
toward the back of the "wheeler," while the spines of some coarse 
horses are sadly tried when they are obliged to trot back with a heavy,, 
springless cart, after the load has been delivered. 

It is the general custom of this country to place young cart-horses 
between the chains, or, in other words, to employ such animals only in 
the capacity of leaders. The practice is equally wise and humane. The 
draught is not easier as the propelling force is situated distant from the 
load, but the pull then is entirely upon the collar, and no weight is 
allowed to rest upon the immatured and yielding spine of a youthful 
body. These benefits, however, are all rendered nugatory by the con- 
duct of most carters. Such men are, generally, of Herculean propor- 
tions, and are conspicuous for no lightness of person. 

The cart, dray, or wagon leaves the office with the driver in his 
proper place, walking beside the horses. Here he continues until the 
load is delivered; but, on the return journey, he is apt to experience 
fatigue. He does not reflect how far his individual sensations are likely 
to be shared by the animals which have been drawing some heavy 
burden during the time he has been simply walking at their sides. No ! 
Seeking his own ease, he casts his body upon the back of the most for- 
ward, and, therefore, upon the youngest horse of the team. His seat is 
the loins, or directly upon the weakest portion of the vertebral chain. 
There he rides, squatting with his legs dangling upon one side. No 
doubt, the situation is pleasant ; but where all is conjecture, the reader 
must decide how far the repetition of such an act may account for rick 
of the back being common among the heavier kind of horses. 

It was otherwise with the old fly wagons of a former day. The 
driver of those vehicles used to have fastened behind his load a stout 
pony. When fatigued, the man would mount the supernumerary 
animal, and, riding beside his horses, would rest his own legs while he 
continued to guide his team ; an act which the London carter is, by his 
position, disqualified for performing. While the driver rests, the "luck 
which attends on ignorance " must take cai'e of the vehicle. 

The spine of the horse, in a natural state, is characterized by a highly 
elastic property. As every form of mechanism is exposed to injury in 
proportion as it approaches to perfection, man should not feel surprised 
if the dehcately-organized back of the animal is not exactly equal to all 
the usages unto which civilization has compelled it to submit. Indeed, 
when we feel how unscrupulous the human being can become, if urged 



2t>6 THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING YICES." 

onward by the pursuit of gain or prompted by a sense of personal in- 
dulgence, it will hardly provoke wonder that the creature doomed to be 
the helpmate of the avaricious, should occasionally suffer in their 
service. 

Rick or chink of the back is among the most common and the least 
understood of equine affections. Its symptoms are confounded — one 
and the same name being employed to indicate every stage of the dis- 
order, thus confusing inquiry. Those effects which result from organic 
change are regai'ded as the promptings of that "viciousness of spirit" 
with which it has pleased mankind to credit the horse. The liberality 
of mortal imagination is extreme, especially where causes have to be 
assumed. Grant man the right to conjecture, and there is no mystery 
in nature for which he cannot account. Thus, the sharp pangs of agony 
which induced the contortions of a dumb creature were conjectured to 
be the gratification of an innately "vicious disposition." This pretended 
explanation has remained unquestioned for ages, abusing the intellect of 
mankind and hardening the hearts of those whom it was thought to 
enlighten. No doubt many very worthy people will feel much inclined 
to quarrel with the book which presumes to question the interpretation 
that generations have approved and time has sanctified. 

However, to expose the manner in which the personation of meekness 
has been abused by the arrogance of ignorance — certain animals are 
supposed to indulge a morbid habit, or "vicious" propensity, which is, 
by the lower orders, spoken of as "kidney dropping." Creatures thus 
viciously disposed are generally aged, and are devoted either to heavy 
draught or to harness purposes. They are sometimes met in those 
stables where horses are let out by the "hour, day, or job." One thus 
afflicted will be drawing a gig along some pleasant country road when 
"the vice" shall be suddenly displayed. The attacks may appear in 
rapid succession, when they render the life worthless ; or they may only 
come on at distant intervals, being separated by long periods of apparent 
soundness. No jockey, however knowing he may be in his vocation, or 
however boastful he may be about "my 'sperience 'mong 'orses," can, by 
any visible sign, announce the day or foretell the hour when a particular 
quadruped will be afflicted with an attack of " kidney dropping. " 

The horse shall be harnessed to some light vehicle, within which may 
be seated some tradesman, by whose side smiles the eldest daughter of 
a numerous family. The animal is not overloaded, and seems to be 
journeying pleasantly at its own pace. He who holds the reins is de- 
lighted ; while she who sits beside him ever and anon leans forward to 
pat the croup of "the dear pet." The sun is shining; the birds are 
singing ; the trees are ]5right with new foliage ; and the country smells 



THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 267 

most pleasantly fresh ; when, suddenly, the gig is brought sharply up, 
and "the wicked beast" is discovered squatting upon its haunches like a 
dog. 




A " KIDNEY DROPPER." 



This is an unnatural position with the horse. It is perfectly true, 
animals are made to assume it in the circle of most amphitheaters ; but 
if the reader remembers, he also beheld men, in the same place, put 
their arms and legs in positions which were quite as unnatural to hu- 
manity in general as sitting on their haunches possibly could be to the 
community of the equine race. What, therefore, may have been ex- 
hibited at a circus signifies nothing, when regarded in its fitness for 
universal application ; in all other spheres, sitting on the haunches, when 
exemplified by the horse, must be accepted as proof of bodily derange- 
ment. 

If the attitude of the animal be observed, the hind limbs will be seen to 
have fallen in such positions as suggest no notion of comfort or of design. 
They may cross one another, or they may be sprawled out on either side 
of the body ; they are never arranged with that grace and care which 
indicate the attitude to have been deliberately assumed. Moreover, 
should the skin be pricked with the point of a pin, no sign of sensibility 
is usually elicited from the hind quarters. Strike the prostrated mem- 
bers, and no evidence of pain follows the blow. The posterior portions 
of the body, obviously, are dead to this world and to its malice. 

However, do not fuss about the horse; allow the sufferer to remain 
undisturbed where it has fallen. Have patience with the distress which 



268 THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 

no cruelty can quicken. Loosen the harness; remove the shafts; pro* 
cure some water, and permit sensibility to allay its parching thirst. 
After a short space, the quadruped may get up of its own accord. No 
time has been lost ; but disease has not been aggravated by needless 
torture. When the creature rises, the fit has passed; but the author 
doubts if the recovery can then be pronounced complete. He would, 
certainly, brave "an accident" who should essay to drive a horse but 
recently recovered from an attack of "kidney dropping," though this 
hazard may be frequently incurred with apparent impunity. 

Allow the injured quadruped to remain in the stable, undisturbed for 
the night. The following morning will be time enough for its examina- 
tion ; for the disease under which the horse languishes is of a nature that 
cannot be affected by the lapse of a few hours. 

The next day, having selected a piece of clear ground, cover the spot 
thickly with straw, and have the horse led on to it. The services of a 
veterinary surgeon are not imperative. The proprietor may himself 
conduct the investigation : or, should he feel distrustful of his own 
ability, any person possessed of the necessary amount of confidence may 
undertake the active duty. All idle spectators should be first requested 
to retire. Then the investigator takes his position as close to the quad- 
ruped as possible. He runs the forefinger and thumb gently over the 
superior spinous processes of the vertebral chain, or down the center of 




TEST FOR BICK OF THE BACK. 



the back. This action is repeated several times, additional force being 
brought to bear with each succeeding trial, until the whole strength of 



THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 2o9 

the operator is exerted. While he is doing this, the person who under- 
takes the investigation fixes his attention on the head of the horse. If, 
upon pressure being made on any particular spot, the ears are laid upon 
the neck, or the crest is suddenly elevated, the fact must be mentally 
noted. The trial should be renewed, and if the like symptoms be elicited, 
the conclusion naturally is, that the seat of injury lies immediately under 
or very near to the place indicated. 

This point being ascertained, the operator puts a hand on either side 
of the tender part, and casts his full weight suddenly upon the spine. 
Such a proceeding, to be demonstrative, must be rapid and energetic. 
Horses, under the sudden pang thus produced, have shrieked in agony. 
Generally, animals crouch under the torture, and burst forth into copious 
perspirations. The author knows of no instance where a desire to em- 
ploy the teeth has been exhibited, although there is no predicating in 
what manner a creature may behave under the powerful wrench of 
actual torment. He, however, who undertakes such an inquiry, must 
be prepared for every eccentricity; and, while regretting the necessity 
which obliges agony to be inflicted on a gentle and a timid creature, he 
should also be far above those coarse and brutal punishments which are 
too frequently indulged to check the writhings of tiie potent suffering. 

The afi"air is thus decided. The spine has been injured, and the spinal 
cord which it sheathes is also involved in the lesion. Horses in such a 
condition are commonly, with that utter want of moraHty which in every 
species of horse transactions appears equally to sway all degrees of the 
human mind, — such animals are commonly cast upon the market, or 
publicly disposed of by auction. The cause of sale is willfully con- 
cealed : the purchaser is designedly imposed on, and his life is know- 
ingly endangered. Persons of every class, from most noblemen to the 
ordinary tradesman, engage in this form of arrant cheatery. They 
swindle their sense of rectitude by giving no warranty at the time of 
sale ; but the law presumes that everything sold contemplates a fitness 
for certain purposes ; whereas a horse liable to an instantaneous loss of 
power in its limbs is dangerous in any employment. Yet so flimsy an 
excuse seems to justify the reputedly honorable man extracting, possi- 
bly, the last penny from the pocket of or imposing upon some struggling 
and needy individual. 

The animal, being sold, is soon found to be worthless ; it speedily 
becomes the property of the lower class of horse-copers, to whom that 
which they call a "kidney dropper" is a real prize. The quadruped is 
sold "cheap" to people of worldly respectability; but it is seldom re- 
tained long by its new owners. It is rebought, for little more than its 
real value, by its former proprietors, to be once more palmed ofi" on 



270 THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 

some aspiring equestrian. After such a manner — selling in the dearest 
market and buying in the cheapest, a maxim of very questionable moral- 
ity — a large profit has been realized by a carcass which was actually 
worthless. 

The author, never having dissected the spine of a "kidney dropper," 
cannot positively say in what condition of parts the disease resides. A 
knowledge of anatomy, however, aided by a comprehension of the symp- 
toms, demonstrates the vertebral chain is the seat of injury ; while the 
want of motion which affects the hinder limbs indicates the spinal mar- 
row to be suddenly pressed upon. Subsequent recovery likewise proves 
the injury to the nervous center is of no more serious a character ; while 
the perfect restoration of the animal's power shows that the pressure is 
either caused by displacement, or by such a partial fracture as rest will 
enable nature to surmount. This explanation, deduced from observation, 
and based upon inferences drawn from the study of effects, will to most 
persons appear so probable as to be perfectly satisfactory. Still, there 
do exist minds whose faith in an antiquated name it is hardly possible, 
for any argument to destroy ; the generality of readers, therefore, must 
grant the author patience, while he, most probably in vain, attempts to 
disabuse such persons of their strange belief 

The term "kidney dropping" is an ignorant combination of words to 
which no absolute meaning can be attached. The kidneys are no more 
than the renal glands. The horse which falls exhibits no sign of urinary 
disease. These organs are usually healthy ; of that fact the writer has 
positive information. The kidneys, moreover, are not specially endowed 
with motor nerves ; no physiologist has hitherto asserted that these 
glands are in any way concerned in the movements of the body. The 
renal organs have, by the French, been unwarrantably removed, without 
the general sensation or the body's motion being affected. When the 
horse drops, not only is motion gone from the hind limbs, but sensibility 
is lost. ' The quarters have dropped, not in accordance with the will of 
the creature, but because the posterior division of the body was released 
from the control of the sensorium, or was suddenly cut off from the 
influence of volition. 

The spinal marrow regulates the motions of the limbs, being subject 
only to the dictation of the brain. Yolition and motion are in these 
organs associated, but not absolutely united. They both are capable of 
separate existence, though the mechanical derangement which destroys 
the one usually puts an end to the other. Nevertheless, they can exist 
apart. Convulsion exhibits motion, as independent of the will; while 
painful paralysis displays sensibility increased, although power of move- 
ment has been lost. In "kidney dropping," consciousness is retained; 



THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 271 

but motion and sensibility have departed from one-half of the trunk-. 
This result indicates the nervous current to be partially checked, and 
points to the great medium of transmission as the seat of injury. 

There is, however, another form of chink in the back, where the spinal 
marrow is in no vast degree involved, and in which the animal exhibit- 
ing the affection is not generally devoted to harness purposes. The 
horse is commonly showy in appearance, and is usually disposed of ex- 
clusively for saddle uses. But the existence of a disease is not denoted 
by any outward sign ; therefore its presence is sneered at as a positive 
impossibility. Quadrupeds, thus disordered, are, by the generality of 
horsemen, condemned as " irreclaimably vicious." 

One of the bones of the spine has been rendered loose in consequence 
of the ligaments being overstrained; the animal has been abused in 
some manner. The ligaments, when in this condition, are acutely pain- 
ful ; though no visual disorder may be obsei'vable to the post-mortem 
examiner, nevertheless the slightest weakness in such a structure may, 
during life, occasion the severest agony. The bone is not fractured; 
but one of the vertebrae, through the leverage of its superior spinous 
process, may have been wrenched slightly to one side. This may not 
affect the appearance of the quadruped ; neither may it elicit signs of 
pain when the weight is evenly seated upon the back ; therefore, only 
during the act of mounting, the drag then being entirely to one side, it 
occasions the most poignant anguish. 

The horse, being dumb, of course cannot explain its sensations; nor 
can it appeal to the forbearance of its master. Its ailments are entirely 
subjected to the merciful consideration of man. The animal's actions, 
therefore, are always liable to be misconstrued ; the promptings of tort- 
ure are frequently confounded with the exhibitions of the worst forms 
of "vice." Thus, a creature with the ligaments of the back strained is 
always condemned as an inveterate kicker; because the drag, produced 
by the weight of the rider resting on one stirrup, occasions so sharp an 
agony as alarms the quadruped, and naturally excites a determination to 
repel some imaginary enemy. The creature, consequently, commences 
to "lash out" with its utmost energy. This violence is repeated so 
often as the owner has occasion to remount. The action is always 
sudden, and not to be inferred from the previous aspect or behavior of 
the nag. It is, therefore, attended with the greater danger, not only to 
the proprietor, but also to those who may be collected about the horse. 

A good illustration of the above facts occurred a few years back, in 
front of certain spacious "rooms," then much frequented by "the fash- 
ionable world." A cavalry officer, recently returned from India, went to 
hear a morning concert at the place just alluded to. There he met some 



212 THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 

old friends, who had changed their residence since he had left the coun- 
try, being then located at Richmond. The party had ridden to London ; 
the military gentleman was pressed to return, and to spend a pleasant 
day at the suburban villa, A servant was dispatched to hire a horse ; 
the man soon returned with a rather small, but very showy, black nag. 




NEVER MOUNT A STRANGE HORSE IN A CROWDED LOCAUTT. 



The officer thought, before the concert was ended, he would retire and 
form the acquaintance of an animal he was shortly to ride for several 
miles. It was well he did so ; for no sooner was his foot placed in the 
stirrup, than what previously appeared to be a remarkably steady quad- 
ruped began to "lash out." The action was continued, creating terrible 
confusion among the crowd which thronged the street, and ultimately 
throwing the would-be rider. The military gentleman was probably 
more hurt in feelings than in person by the incident ; although the latter 
circumstance formed an excuse for not journeying to Richmond, and the 
occurrence, on the following morning, was circulated throughout London 
as a newspaper paragraph, bearing a heading of " Serious Accident to 
A Cavalry Officer." 

Yiolent, however, as may be the resistance provoked while the foot is 
in the stirrup, the seat of the saddle is no sooner attained than compo- 
sure is restored. When the rider is once fairly on the back, the steed 
assumes its natural timidity, its docility, and its obedience. It is then 
transformed into all the most fastidious proprietor could desire. That 
circumstance has induced some horsemen who were more thoughtful 
than the generality of the race, to change the habit usual in this coun- 



THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 2*73 

try. Such persons have tried the effect of mounting upon the wrong 
side ; this has usually, for a certain time, been attended with perfect 
success ; but the custom, after a space, has seemed to involve the sound 
ligaments, when the kicking has been renewed with more than double 
vehemence. A horse which kicks in the way described, should always 
be transferred to harness work, when no vast weight being upon the 
back, the quadruped generally behaves admirably. 

Rick or chink in the back is, however, the common property of creat • 
ures of heavy draught, and, with such a description of horse, the con- 
sequences are usually more marked and much more severe. The reader 
will readily imagine that a "kidney dropper," falling suddenly while 
pulling a weighty load, can hardly escape "accident." Therefore, quad- 
rupeds of the coarser breed, and thus afflicted, rapidly come into the 
possession of those who do not scruple to trade with misery ; and, as 
this form of disease enables the sufferer to appear with a blooming coat, 
as well as with a carcass carrying a quantity of fat, the copers often reap 
a rich harvest by their unscrupulous dishonesty. 

A common cause of these accidents is the thoughtlessness or the 
greediness of horse proprietors. It has become almost a custom, with 
needy masters, to send out one-horse carts upon two wheels with long 
reins attached to the harness. The motive which induces such silly 
behavior is obvious enough. The tradesman imagines that by the ani- 
mal being hurried back after the load is delivered, time can be saved. 
He does not consider that the limbs, which have been strained dragging 
some fearful weight to a particular spot, may, before another task of 
magnitude is imposed, possibly require the comparatively easy walk back 
to recover the full use of their functions. He probably, and it is hoped 
actually, has never reflected that perpetual fatigue soon exhausts, and 
ultimately disables, animal energy. 

The cart horse, moreover, being forced to quicken its pace, is urged 
beyond the habits and the uses for which man has bred the creature. It 
is compelled to execute a duty for the performance of which its bodily 
formation renders it totally unsuited. The poor animal that is called 
upon to fulfill opposite uses, generally endures the shorter period : be- 
cause of the excessive labor it is obliged to undergo. The custom, there- 
fore, accords with the saying, which illustrates waste and extravagance, 
by supposing a candle to be lighted at both ends. The wretched horse 
is now a cart horse, loaded to the extent of its ability ; next, it is expected 
to display the activity of a gig horse, although it is harnessed to what 
badly represents the lighter vehicle ; while, the long day of continued 
toil being ended, the slave is required to trot briskly homeward with a 
crowded load of human laborers. 

18 



274 THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 

The dismissed cart is generally well burdened, after the hour for strik- 
ing work has arrived. The men usually leave off their toil as the first 
stroke of the clock is heard ; but no such relaxation is permitted to the 
creature which, of the many over- worked bodies, has toiled the hardest 
and needs rest the most. The quietude of London suburbs is regularly 
broken with the thud ! thud ! thud ! produced by the heavy shafts pulling 
down the chain, which has been jolted upward by the ungainly trot of the 
tired slave. The sound declares the force which falls every few moments 
upon the same part of a living spine. The falling of a single drop of 
water, long continued, on the same place, can occasion direst agony. 
The Inquisition illustrated that fact. But the cart is heavier than many 
drops of water. Any one who has beheld a spectacle of this description, 
can have hardly failed to observe the faintness, mingled with suffering, 
which propels the load. The driver commonly stands up near to the 
front ; he jags the reins and loudly cracks the long whip, that fright may 
quicken the movement of those limbs which tire seems to glue to the 
stones over which they pass. 




THE COMMON CAUSES OF RICK OF THE BACK IN HEAVY HORSES. 



Rick or chink in the back is, generally, generated by that want of 
sympathy shown by the community of proprietors in regard to their 
property in horse flesh. It would be a legitimate cause for wonder, 
were horses not a hazardous investment, when breathing and living 
frames are subjected to the united effects of ignorance and o*' prejudice. 



THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 275 

Upon the earliest indication being perceived of the spine having been 
badly injured, the horse should be instantly thrown up for at least six 
months. The animal ought not to have a layer of pitch, rosin, etc. 
smeared thickly over the back, and be turned out to take its chance upon 
a green diet. But it should be placed in a roomy, loose box : it should 
have the hair cut off close over the seat of injury, and the place should 
be constantly moistened by means of cloths dipped in a lotion, composed 
of tincture of arnica, two ounces, and water, one pint. This remedy, 
with softened food of the most supporting kind, should constitute the 
treatment for the first month of recovery. 

At the end of that period, we may assume that inflammation has been 
subdued; thereupon the measures adopted may be changed. Some 
compound soap liniment should be rubbed on the surface every morning. 
Should the application blister the skin, the liniment must be withheld 
for a time ; but so soon as friction can be quietly endured, the stimulant 
must be renewed. All this while, the quadruped should be well fed ; but 
medicine should be strictly withheld, grass and bran mashes being solely 
employed to regulate the bowels if their action be sluggish. 

When morbid sensibility no longer exists in the spine, and moderate 
pressure with the fingers can be borne upon the back, the liniment may 
be discontinued ; but the restoration is to finish with the repeated use 
of liquid blisters. One side of the spine, near to the seat of injury, is 
first to be acted upon ; when the action of the vesicatory appears to be 
subsiding, the other half of the back should be attacked. This plan 
must be pursued till the fifth month has expired, the horse being sus- 
tained upon the best and most nutritive food. After this period has 
elapsed, a handful of ground oak bark should be mingled with each 
allowance of provender. The animal, during all this time, never being 
flurried, or allowed to leave its ample stable. 

Upon recovery, the quadruped ought never to be employed for that 
same kind of service in which the injury was received. No weight 
should, subsequently, be placed upon the back ; for the spine which has 
been once injured, can never, by human art, be restored to its pris- 
tine soundness. However greatly the animal may have been prized, 
even as a hunter, it is safer and much more profitable to doom the steed 
to the collar, in which last employment old hunters particularly delight 
in exhibiting their highly-prized excellences of action. Many a horse 
that appears in the London streets running before some brougham, and 
which, by the gayety of its spirit, excites the admiration of the foot 
passengers, will, after death, be found to have one or more bones of the 
spine joined by osseous deposit, proving that the back, during life, must 
have suffered serious injury. 



£76 THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 

Horse owners, however, should be very careful, not knowingly to risk 
chink or rick of the back; for such an "accident," according to its in- 
tensity, may reduce the animal of fabulous price to an article which 
shall literally be almost valueless. It brings down the steed which 
excited universal envy, to the cripple which no honest man would sell, 
and which no prudent man would keep. The mischief once established, 
too often sets science at defiance, for the rick, when bad, is terribly apt 
to terminate in fearful fracture of the spine. , 




THE PATENT TRACE-SHAFT. 



The above illustration is copied from the heading to a bill which 
announces a patented invention, which is manufactured by Messrs. Gib- 
son & Co., of Coventry Street. The novelty consists in the shafts being 
BO made as to render the employment of traces unnecessary when the 
animal is driven in single harness. The weight of the vehicle, or so 
much of it as usually rests upon the back, is dependent entirely from 
the collar. For horses troubled with any of those "vices" which indi- 
cate the spine to be affected, this kind of harness affords, at all events, 
the most rational hope of working such creatures without provoking the 
annoying and the dangerous symptom. 

When it is remembered that all animals which have been worn out 
under the saddle, old hacks and hunters, are doomed to end their lives 
in the more ignoble duties of propulsion, it is not surprising to find 
many of the quadrupeds, sold for double or single harness, are affected 
with those complaints which indicate the back to be disordered. The 
worst exhibitions are confined to gig horses. Few carriage or brougham 
horses are thus disabled ; that fact almost proves the author's inference, 
as well as demonstrates the utility of that novelty which was in the last 
illustration introduced to the notice of the reader. 



THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 277 

As heavy quadrupeds are likely to be similarly diseased, the carter 
should be informed of the fact, and cautioned against ever riding on the 
backs of his teamsters. So also with lighter animals, the groom should 
be forbidden to mount the horses which are very liable to this misfor- 
tune. The shafts of a cart are of course calculated to aggravate this 
malady ; but such a horse may perform easy or reasonable labor between 
the chains for a long succession of years ; only, when the pull is severe, 
the driver should go to the head of the disordered teamster, to prevent 
any undue strain upon the back, or it would be certainly better if, during 
the period of exertion, the chains were unhooked. 

It is strange, when the importance of the spine to the utility of the 
animal is considered, and when the well-known fact is regarded that the 
lowest class of copers make a species of property out of horses suffering 
from rick of the back, that this particular region receives no special 
attention during a quadruped's soundness being subjected to the test of 
an ordinary veterinary examination ! The creature's head, tail, eyes, 
teeth, shoulders, haunches, limbs, feet, etc. would all be scrupulously 
investigated ; but the back, on the soundness of which the utility of the 
body must depend, would probably be only honored with a passing notice. 

Animals, however, which are ricked in the back, are generally sold 
through one.of those Horse Auction Marts that abound in the metropolis. 
Such places offer great facilities to dishonest practices, and afford much 
encouragement to the class of copers. These persons never care to pos- 
sess a sound horse. They have always some bargain ready to be 
imposed upon a novice ; and the ignorant in horse flesh are ever eager 
to snap at any supposed "awful sacrifice." The uninitiated is a fre- 
quenter of auctions. Being there, he walks down the gangways, star- 
ing at the equine chattels; going dangerously near to their heels, but 
not venturing up to the head of any quadruped. It is not long that 
this person is permitted to stroll unattended in such a sphere. His 
notice is soon directed to " one of the right sort." The groom is ordered 
to bring the animal into the yard, and show "its action" to the gen- 
tleman. 

While the groom is putting on the bridle and removing the cloth, 
the uninitiated accompanies his new companion into the yard. The 
coming of the animal is soon announced by the cracking of numer- 
ous whips. The poor creature is hurried and flurried about the little 
space outside the stables, or it is made to prance and caper along the 
public street. The intention is not to exhibit the natural pace, for no 
person possibly could judge of a horse when the animal is thus circum- 
stanced. Fear will conceal the presence of disease, and the symptoms 
of alarm are, in the quadruped, readily mistaken for the evidences of spirit. 



2T8 THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 

The novice should shun such society; and the gentleman deserves 
small pity who ventures into such a locality. Let the person who 
desires to possess a horse, and who can afford to pay for the luxury he 
covets, enter the premises of some respectable dealer. Let him be pre- 
pared to exchange a fair sum for a sound and serviceable animal. Let 
him never walk into the yard, and wait the appearance of the quad- 
ruped ; but rather let the would-be purchaser remain near the stall, and 
observe attentively the groom while the man is putting on the bridle. 
Some creatures are alarmed when a hand approaches the head — an in- 
dication, either that the sight is imperfect, that severe punishment has 
been inflicted, or that the brain may be diseased. This symptom also 
warrants other suspicions; and it is never suggestive of health or of 
good treatment. The precautions taken by the man, when going toward 
the head, will also be characteristic, and may inform the spectator of 
very much concerning the educated temper and disposition of the nag 
he contemplates acquiring. 




BACKING ON 10 THB GANGWAY. 



Such things, however, being noted, the stranger must still retain his 
situation. Some horses, though not absolutely "ricked," are neverthe- 
less stiff in the back. Such quadrupeds are unpleasant to the rider, and 
are unable to turn in the stall; but whenever their removal becomes 
imperative, they are backed out on to the gangway, and then turned 
toward the door. A stiffened spine can be no recommendation, but it 



THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 279 

may fairly be accepted as evidence that the animal has either been over- 
weighted or has, in its time, done some hard work. It is invariably 
detrimental to the value ; for, the vertebrae being the base of the anatom- 
ical body, their healthy condition is of the greatest possible importance 
toward even an approach to soundness. 

It is highly improbable that an animal with a decided rick of the back 
should find admission into the stables of any respectable dealer; but 
there are numerous places, termed Commission Stables, which a novice 
unacquainted with names and localities may, from outward appearances, 
easily mistake for premises of the purest character. Should the imaginary 
personage, whose conduct the author has supposed to be the subject of 
remark, have entered such a stable, much art will be employed to per- 
suade him to leave the building. If the gentleman should be firm, and 
refuse to retire, possibly the proprietor may be seized with a sudden fancy 
to show another horse ; but any trick of this nature will be readily de- 
tected, and the fresh animal, though subsequently led into the yard, should 
never be looked at. 




TURNING IN THE STALL. 



A horse cannot turn in the stall without twisting the back. Some 
animals, however, can turn quickly in one direction, whereas an attempt 
to flex the body the contrary way will produce the acutest anguish. 
Therefore, when the groom bids the horse come round, the gentleman 
should observe the mode in which the act is accomplished. Should the 
quadruped's head be turned from the door, such a fact may be regarded 
as suspicious ; for grooms always prefer the shortest roads, and trivial 
matters, where horses are concerned, often lead to important discoveries. 

The diseases of the horse are not yet thoroughly understood. Man- 
kind have acquired a habit of accepting words, without insisting that the 



280 THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 

ideas sucli terms represent shall be strictly defined. No word is more 
common in the mouths of horsemen than "jibbing." It, however, 
does not specially imply one act; for there are many kinds of behavior 
which are designated as "jibbing." Thus, a horse which is unable to 
start, is called "a jibber." A quadruped which, in the middle of a 
journey, shall be suddenly impelled to move in a backward direction, 
is said to "jib." The animal which, upon hearing the command to 
proceed, will commence throwing up its head, and, spite of chastisement, 
shall bear in the opposite direction, is also supposed to have learned 
the "vice" of "jibbing." 

"Jibbing" of every kind appears to be no "vice," but a nervous dis- 
order, — a sort of equine epilepsy. A word, spoken sharply, can summon 
the attack, which generally deprives the animal of all power of motion, 
or forces it to move in a direction the opposite of the road on "which it 
wishes to proceed. The movements are independent of the will ; and if 
any person will attentively inspect the countenance of the horse, when 
in the act of "jibbing," the author imagines the real character of the 
supposed "vice" must be recognized. When "jibbing" is exhibited, a 
spasmodic fit has possession of the frame. It is useless to flog or to 
inflict other tortures. The attack will last a certain time, and then, 
perhaps, suddenly vanish. No brutality can shorten its duration, though 
cruelty, possibly, may lengthen the convulsion. 

On such occasions, however, various cruelties are commonly perpe- 
trated ; but severity has then lost its power to quicken timidity. The 
lash has ceased to influence ; while the human voice, though sent forth 
in volume and exerted in the bitterest execration, no longer is invested 
with the attributes of authority. The body is acted upon by a power 
higher than mortal sway. The creature is then carried by disease above 
this world's malice. The whip or the signal to proceed may elicit only 
a staggering motion, or a backward movement. At last the spell is 
broken. The ability to guide the limbs suddenly is regained : but the 
brain is congested and the senses confused. The creature, upon the 
first partial recovery, may exhibit a desire to bolt — may, for an uncertain 
period, be all but unconscious. Sometimes it will recover its powers 
suddenly, almost as though its previous condition had been assumed. 
On other occasions it may, under some impulse, tear onward, regardless 
of the road, as though it sought to fly the scene of its late suffering, or 
endeavor to lose the agony of convulsion in the rapidity of motion. 

The probability that such an act may conclude the fit of jibbing, 
instructs us in the folly of adding the irritation of man's cruelty to the 
pain necessarily accompanying acute disease. Severity can only lend 
violence to the impulse which is almost certain to succeed the at tack. 



THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 281 

It may endanger the life of the driver, but it cannot shorten the duration 
of the fit. Every kind of brutality has been speculated in without effect. 
Such treatment, most probably, has prolonged insensibility; for noise, 
confusion, or agony is not likely to be sedative to the nervous system 
which a word has morbidly excited. Yet such practices are generally 
adopted. Nay, the author has heard of a professional man who, re- 
siding near London, possessed a fine animal which was thus afflicted. 




A POPULAR CUKE FOR THE IMAGINARY VICE OF " JIBBINQ." 



This person actually had some straw kindled under his quadruped's 
body, and, to quicken what he called "an obstinate vice," partially 
roasted the breathing flesh of his living property ! So monstrous an 
artifice was successful on the first occasion; but, upon repetition, it 
ceased to operate. Such a custom is not unusual among the uneducated 
boors of distant villages; but the writer had hoped that no vexation 
could have induced an individual, possessing the most distant claim upon 
the name of gentleman, to adopt so inhuman and useless a resort. 

The horse is a gentle creature ; it has no courage ; it can display no 
resolution. Its impulses always incline it to flee from danger. It is 
made up of alarms, and a child's puny hand may guide its huge strength. 
But the history of the animal supplies too many instances where the 
perversity of mankind has mistaken the prompting of disease for the 
display of malice. It is disgraceful to the boasted civilization of the 



2?^2 THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 



present age that, while knowledge has nauch benefited every sphere of 
human legislation, the errors, the practices, and the brutalities of the 
last century should be in full operation, — where the scant necessities of 
the most gentle, the most submissive, and the most valuable of man's 
earthly helpmates are concerned. 

Jibbing is most common among harness horses, the faces of which are 
disguised and partially concealed by the blinkers. Were the countenance 
exposed, its expression could hardly be misinterpreted by any person 
who cared to observe its indications. But nothing can obscure the com- 
prehension of mankind like prejudice. This weapon has been frequently 
employed against the life of human beings ; but animals, to this hour, 
are tortured by its operation. Could the countenance of a horse, when 
in the act of jibbing, be calmly contemplated, all belief in "voluntary 
vice" would be at once dispelled. The eye is strained inward ; the teeth 

are firmly set; the nostrils are di- 
lated; the breathing is spasmodic; 
and the muscles are rigid. 

There is, however, one symptom 
which, although expressive of terror,' 
agony, or faintness, all horsemen are 
agreed in regarding as the declara- 
tion of a "vicious intention." Such 
an indication is the backward posi- 
tion of the ears, or the laying of those 
organs upon the animal's neck. The 
forward carriage, or the "pricking" 
of those members is recognized as 
expressive of delight, of gayety, or 
of attention. What, then, should 
the backward position truthfully sig- 
nify? What ought sense to imply, 
from the falling of a part the upright 
bearing of which is interpreted to be 
the sign of liveliness ? Yet, how many tender-hearted gentlemen, abused 
by the prejudices they inherited, will, when they observe the ears laid 
back, unhesitatingly cause the lash to sting the body which, probably, 
was far from contemplating mischief I 

When an animal is thus afflicted, never pursue the course which is 
usually adopted. All noise should be prevented; no flurry near to or 
about the creature should be permitted. Do not use the whip or jag 
the reins : relinquish both. Order those within the vehicle immediately 
to dismount. Undo the bearing rein : loosen the harness. If possible, 




THE COUNTENANCE OF A HORSE DUBING A FIT OF 
JIBBING. 



THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 283 

remove the quadruped from the shafts. Go to the head ; speak sooth- 
ingly; pat and caress the agitated frame. Procure some cold water; 
soak a thick cloth in the liquid, and lay it over the brain and upon the 
eyes. Sponge out the mouth and nostril; then empty the vessel, by 
dashing the remaining fluid into the animal's face. When the incapaci- 
tating stage is subsiding, have ready two powerful men, who, placed at 
the head, shall prevent the disposition to bolt from being indulged. This 
done, return the horse to the stable. Never hazard riding behind a 
creature which has recently been afflicted with "equine epilepsy." 

Such an animal is best put out of its misery at once, as the attempted 
remedy occupies too much time, is too expensive, and is far too uncer- 
tain in its result, to be prudently adopted. However, should the horse 
be young, it may be kept on prepared food for eighteen months — not 
turned out to grass ; but stabled, properly exercised, and fed on the best, 
in the hope that nature will, with maturity, banish the disease. Such 
persons, however, as will drive a jibber, which merely exhibits a tardi- 
ness at starting, should be particular never to have the coat singed or 
clipped ; for cold, acting upon the large surface of exposed integument, 
is very likely to provoke an attack. The horse, when brought to the 
door, should be briskly walked, and the journey, when commenced, should 
never start off at a tearing pace; but should begin most gently, and 
very gradually become more speedy. Such treatment, with carefully 
prepared food, plenty of old beans, bran mashes for laxatives, and an 
occasional tonic, is the best means the author knows of to render the 
quadruped ultimately useful. 

The power of kindness is, perhaps, shown most strongly in the case 
of the horse thus affected. The love of the creature for the individual 
who is fond of it, is not well or truly characterized when spoken of as 
affection : it is something more than such a general term can represent : 
it amounts to positive devotion. Even when the fit is strongest, and all 
ordinary sounds are lost to the animal's sense, the voice of the person 
who has been constantly kind will evidently be responded to. His 
caresses will soothe at a moment when the most potent pangs would be 
powerless : his presence will restrain the wildness which naturally en- 
sues upon the first dawn of reviving consciousness. Whereas he who is 
habitually a careless or a harsh master, in whose hand whip and reins 
are equally instruments of torture, may, only by his appearance, induce 
the attack; and his foot upon the vehicle is likely to generate the agita- 
tion which shall assuredly bring on the disease. 

But the man who would win the love of his steed, and is fond of the 
animal, should be a frequent visitor to its abode. That simple or nega- 
tive quality which consists in the absence of actual cruelty, will answer 



284 THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 

no end. The human being, thus distinguished, only elicits the passive 
indifference by which his treatment is characterized. It is feeling, which 
even in animals, responds to feeling. The horse and the dog love those 
who like to take pains with them, or submit to trouble for their sakes. 
The two animals are alike in this respect. How fond the dog, which 
may for years have slept before the fire and grown enormously fat upon 
the plentiful meals supplied by an indulgent but an indifferent master, — 
how attached the animal speedily becomes to any person who, though a 
stranger, will devote some time to the teaching of little canine tricks I 
So also with the horse ; the best way, indeed the only way, to win the 
entire love of this creature, is to expend some labor in brightening its 
intelligence. 

To return to the matter at present especially under consideration. 
The jibbing which is confined to a delay at starting may be annoying, 
but it is seldom dangerous. The animal which merely moves backward, 
when commanded to proceed, may vex the driver, but the malady, being 
known, its consequences can, in a great measure, be guarded against. 
There is, however, one form of this disease which renders any animal 
very far from a safe possession. It is, where the horse will suddenly 
stand still in the middle of a journey, and commence backing. The 
more inopportune the place for such an exhibition, the more likely is the 
visitation to be brought on. A crowded thoroughfare or a dangerous 
road, — any incident calculated to excite or to alarm the steed, will as- 
suredly produce a display of the worst symptoms. 

A medical gentleman, of whose acquaintance the author is justifiably 
proud, — and whose practice laid upon the western coast, — one evening, 
after a hard day's work, which had tired all his horses and fairly knocked 
up their master, was, before his boots were pulled off, apprised that a 
wealthy lady, and resident eighteen miles distant from his pharmacy, 
required his immediate attendance. There was no choice but to obey 
such a summons. The gentleman's own horses he could not think of 
compelling over such a distance. Therefore the place was scoured, and 
at last an individual was discovered who was willing to lend, for a con- 
sideration, "the very best horse in the whole country." The doctor was 
soon mounted, and progressing to his destination, at the rate of twelve 
miles an hour. The distance had nearly been accomplished, when the 
road ran close to the sea. It was in fact no more than a broad ledge 
cut in the side of a precipitous cliff. This spot being reached, and the 
heart of the rider made glad at the prospect of soon accomplishing his 
journey, the steed suddenly came to a stand. It first trembled all over. 
The gentleman endeavored to soothe the creature, which he perceived 
was suffering, but which he concluded was alarmed. He was thus en- 



THE SO-OALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 285 

gaged, when the nag commenced to back toward the sea. Whip and 
spur were tried to no purpose. The impulse could not be checked or 
altered ; and the writer's friend, perceiving his danger, had barely time 
to throw himself out of the saddle, when the horse toppled over the cliff, 
and was discovered a mangled mass on the following morning. 




The various aspects which disease can assume, of course are multiforA, 
and unfortunately these, when exhibited by the horse, are all exposed to 
the arbitrary conclusions of prejudice. Men of education appear, in all 
that concerns the stable, to passively resign their intellects into the 
hands of the groom, and to be swayed by the hardihood of assertion, or 
to be ruled by the conjectures of selfishness. Thus the declarations of 
morbid sensibility are accepted and spoken of as the antics of the 
"rankest vice." "Jibbing" has been punished as the instigation of 
malice ; the chastisement has been inflicted without mercy, and has con- 
tinued for many ages ; but cruelty has not been able to check the exhibi- 



286 THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 

tion of disease. The symptom is to this hour as general as it was in 
previous centuries. It still delays the vehicle, after the driver is ready 
to start : it often propels the w^heels in a contrary direction to that the 
coachmen desire they should travel : it commonly stays the wayfarer, 
when eager to conclude his journey. At the door of the mansion, in 
the public street and on the high road, the signs of the malady are fre- 
quently to be witnessed. 

So it is with the indications of various disorders. The horses of the 
existing race of proprietors are, for a life, doomed to subsist on the same 
substances : four or five times a day, dried grass, oats, and a few beans 
are placed before them : some have chopped straw, and, in exceptional 
cases, prepared food ; but that being only allowed for the last meal on 
Saturday night, does not interfere with the monotony of diet. Now, a 
sameness in the articles consumed, as medical men now recognize, dis- 
orders the digestion; but when aided by a want of exercise, a total 
absence of amusement, and an impure residence, perhaps no better 
means could be invented to derange the tenderest radicles of being. 
The sympathy which exists between the stomach and the skin is now 
so universally understood that it will generate no surprise if the creat- 
ure, thus housed, imprisoned, and sustained, should be occasionally 
troubled with an obstinate cutaneous affection. 

Stabled horses often are the victims of an acutely sensitive condition 
of the integument. Yet the possible existence of such a state is never 
admitted by the groom, because the afTection is unaccompanied by any 
outward sign. There is no tenderness displayed when the hand is laid 
upon the body. The coat looks bloomingly. The scurf is not devel- 
oped in increased quantity. The hair does not prove loose or fall off. 
There is nothing visible for ignorance to perceive. The animal feeds 
well, and seems in the highest possible condition. The groom cannot, 
therefore, believe in the presence of disease. Nevertheless, the quad- 
ruped may acutely suffer, especially during the spring and autumn. It 
may even, by the irritation, be provoked to gnaw large patches from the 
sensitive covering of the body ; but the more common form of the dis- 
ease urges the poor horse to destroy the heavy rug in which stable 
attendants are fond of wrapping their charges, before quitting them for 
the night. 

What precise form the invitation assumes, it is impossible to ascertain ; 
but no sooner is the quadruped clothed up, than it begins to fidget. Its 
legs are in almost perpetual motion, and the body repeatedly leans with 
violence against the trevise. The creature is evidently uneasy, and the 
animal's eye watches the groom until that individual, having finished 
his work, retires to the consolation of the adjacent public house. 



THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." SSt 

No sooner is the animal certain of being alone, than it commences to 
tear off the hateful clothing. Large portions are seized between the 
teeth, and these are rent off with an energy which borders upon mad- 
ness. Nor is the mental fever, which actuates the horse, to be pacified, 
so long as a vestige of the hated envelope remains to be reraoved. The 
passion seems to be very engrossing while it exists; for, during the 
period, anybody may enter the building, and even approach the irritated 
quadruped, without his presence being observed. But, the feat being 
ended, the creature looks around, seems to recover its recognitions, 
nibbles different portions of its coat, licks the coolest parts of its manger, 
being evidently thirsty, and ultimately lies down, apparently well satis- 
fied with its recent performance. 




TEARING THE CLOTHING. 



The recognized remedy for such a condition does not regard the mor- 
bid state out of which the destruction arises ; but it consists in placing 
upon the back of the horse a garment which shall pain the lips, tongue, 
palate and gums when it is grasped by the teeth. Cloths of such a 
description are manufactured of coarse horse-hair, and are commonly 
kept by most harness-makers, so general is their adoption. After such 
a fashion, the biting impulse may be sometimes checked ; but there are 
quadrupeds which seem to be goaded to still greater violence by the 
device. Other animals, though the cloth of hair acts as a preventive, 
become restless, and evidently pine under the remedy: their appetite 
fails : their spirit vanishes, and their flesh wastes : nay, the author has 
known the introduction of the favorite cure to be followed by an internal 
and a fatal form of disease. 



288 THE SO-CALLED '^INCAPACITATING VICES." 

Why should all inhabitants of the stable be subjected to a sameness 
of treatment ? Why should all horses be expected to consume the same 
food; to eat the like quantities of provender; to drink a particular 
amount of water, and to be clothed in uniform, when left for the night ? 
It may please the eye of the groom to behold the animals all wrapped 
up and bedded down to match, as he quits the stable for the night ; yet, 
where life is concerned, something stronger should regulate arrangements 
than the gratification of a servant's prejudice. 

To propitiate the inclinations or the whims of a retainer, constituted 
no part of the motive which caused the stables to be erected. Such 
places are professedly built /or horses, and the animals, therefore, should 
be primarily regarded. Yet, wherefore oblige a quadruped to be covered 
up Avith a rug, when the creature, by a nightly destruction of the wrap- 
per, asserts the envelope to be objectionable ? Why compel an unwil- 
ling steed to endure that which is not requisite on the score of decency ; 
which cannot be adopted on any plea of appearance ; and which, in the 
most emphatic manner, is declared not pleasant to the life on whose body 
it is suspended ? 

It is impossible to comprehend that the groom possesses any excess 
of modesty which can be offended at the notion of a horse sleeping 
naked in the stall; and if the absence of covering is agreeable to the 
party which is principally concerned, it seems odd a reasonable being 
should insist that a contrary practice shall be adopted. Still, persist 
these individuals certainly do ; and even carry their persistence to other 
particulars. The skins of the equine race are as various in degrees of 
sensibility as can be those of human beings. There do exist many men 
who, for pleasure, first soak their bodies in warm baths, and subsequently 
polish the cuticle with the hardest possible of flesh brushes. Others would 
only be gratified were they daily rubbed down with brick bats. On the 
contrary, there exist individuals on whom a 
ruck in the finest linen will inflict a discomfort 
which, in its intensity, almost amounts to an 
agony. 

So there are horse possessing hides to which 

may be applied with impunity the sharpest and 

coarsest of curry-combs. But there also live 

many animals having skins to which the oldest 

and bluntest of those antiquated scratchers will 

occasion a sensation the acuteness of which ia 

AN ExciTEK HORSE'S MOUTH. ^estificd to by thc violcncc of resistance with 

which the morning's dressing shall be accompanied. Yet, rather than 

obey the hint so energetically conveyed, or discard the employment of 




THE SO-CALLED •'INCAPACITATING VICES. 



289 



anything with which use has familiarized them, the least venturesome 
of grooms will brave daily danger. In vain does the irritlited quad- 
ruped writhe, frisk, stamp, kick, snap and bite, under the infliction; the 
servant has been taught that a curry-comb is an instrument to be applied 
to the skins of horses. The head will be tied up — the leg-strap em- 
ployed; nay, the hobbles and the twitch will be applied, before the 
lesson he has learned to regard in his youth shall be discarded. Such 
tools of the lowest routine are the ignorant in everything which does 
not involve their personal gratifications. 

The consequence is, that because the animal, while being dressed, 
cannot forbear biting at all objects which are near to it, the incisor teeth 
rapidly lose the cutting edges, and become rounded. Such a shape of 
the nippers used to be viewed as indicative of crib biting; but the fal- 
lacy of this notion having been exposed, the idea is generally abandoned. 
Nevertheless, an animal having rounded front teeth would fare badly at 
an equine banquet where the provender had to be cropped from the 
earth. It is, therefore, only prudent to prevent the creature from spoil- 
ing its mouth. To accomplish this, remove the curry-comb ; for, should 
it be allowed to remain in the stable, the chances are very strongly 
against the groom's favorite tool being discarded. Have the skin dressed 




A HORSE, HAVINO A SENSITIVE SKIN, IS DRESSED BETWEEN THE PILLAR-REINS. 



with a penetrating brush ; or, should that prove too sharp, order it to 
be groomed very gently with the wisp and water brush. Animals 
possessed of extremely sensitive skins generally carry very fine coats ; 
therefore they can well afford to dispense with very much labor from 
their stable attendant. 

19 



290 THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 

The snapping may, from long indulgence, have become confirmed as 
a habit. In that case, nevertheless, ameliorate the dressing ; but, before 
the groom undertakes the cleansing of the skin, the quadrupeds should 
be fixed by two strong pillar-reins, each of which is of sufficient length 
to reach, from opposite sides, to the middle of the dressing stall. The 
head, thus bridled, is comparatively fixed, and is, of course, fastened 
away from any substance which might be seized by the teeth. How- • 
ever, the, skin is sometimes, when thus tender, loaded with a scurf 
which no curry-comb, however long it may be applied, will do aught 
but increase. In this case, always change the provender, and particu- 
larly see the food is properly prepared ere it is presented. Give, daily, 
one ounce of liquor arsenicalis, in a pint of cold water ; and every morn- 
ing damp the skin, not the hair, with a mixture composed of animal 
glycerin, one part ; rose-water, two parts. 

For an animal that destroyed its rugs, the first measure is, to refuse 
all further supply of such articles. Then attend to the food, after the 
method already advised ; next anoint the body with glycerin and rose- 
water, subsequently employing a hay wisp regularly night and morning. 
Place the animal in a cool, loose box, and, if possible, leave both window 
and half the door open. When night arrives, permit the quadruped, at 
its pleasure, to move in or out of the stable—fallowing a piece of rather 
closely bitten meadow land for exercise, when the sun is down and the 
flies are at rest. Take the animal in before insects begin to throng, 
which they seldom do till the sun has gained full power. By way of 
medicine, daily give one ounce of liquor arsenicalis, in a pint of cold 
water, together with one quart of good (not publican's) beer. Keep 
the bowels regular with bran mashes or with green meat. There can 
be no necessity why all labor should be relinquished : the work, how- 
ever, ought not to be excessive, or the pace too exhausting; for any 
extraordinary exertion is apt to lead to excoriations which are, in their 
turn, disposed to end in large and obstinate sores, when the skin is in 
an irritable condition. 

Every part of the horse is of importance to the owner : the teeth are 
not secondary to the feet; the legs are of no less value than the lungs; 
and the skin cannot be esteemed more lightly than the eyes. Indeed, 
every rider ought to make himself acquainted with the appearances 
natural to the healthy eye of the horse ; for a shying steed will effectu- 
ally destroy the pleasure of an entire day. The horseman should notice 
the eyes of every animal he intends to mount. As a precaution, such 
a measure is imperative ; for, being forewarned, he may be prepared to 
encounter the danger into which defective vision is almost certain to 
lead the rider. For the method of proceeding, when examining the 



THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 291 

eyes of a horse, the reader is referred to the " Illustrated Horse Doctor," 
(pp. 49 and 56,) wherein the proper plan is amply detailed. 

The reason for recommending what the reader may regard as a trouble- 
some acquisition and a strange knowledge for a gentleman to bore over, 
is, because those livery stable-keepers who let horses out to strangers, 
can hardly be expected to maintain a very valuable stud for such pur- 
poses. It is not asserted that these tradesmen knowingly send out very 
defective animals ; but they could not, perhaps, in the way of business, 
warrant, as decidedly sound, any inhabitant of their stables. The eyes 
are the parts which generally fail. Exposed to a tainted atmosphere 
and fixed close to a whitened wall, when at home; wearing blinkers 
unpleasantly near to the organs, when abroad; while, at other times, 
they carry a saddle, having the eye exposed to the full glare of the 
sun, — it is not a subject for wonder that bodies so sensitively endowed 
and delicately organized should become diseased. 

Added to the natural results of such causes is the treatment experi- 
enced from brutal and ignorant fellows, whom a few shillings have 
invested with a whip. Such persons are fond of slashing the horse 
over the head, and may thus produce partial opacity of the cornea. (See 
"Illustrated Horse Doctor," p. 46.) The effect of imperfect vision is to 
create alarm in a .highly imaginative but an excessively timid animal. 
Shying is the consequence, and this act is as various in its developments 
as its causes may be numerous. Probably this will be best explained 
by relating a circumstance which, a few years ago, occurred to a friend 
of the author's. 

A young gentleman, native of Ireland, complained one street was so 
like another, that though he should live a thousand years in London, he 
should still see nothing of the town. He wished to view the suburbs 
to ascertain the situation of the metropolis ; with this purpose in view, 
he, one afternoon, hired a horse at a West End livery stables, and trotted 
upon the Uxbridge Road. Everything went pleasantly till steed and 
rider had reached Ealing Common, when, there being nothing in view, 
the gentleman gave the quadruped its head, and allowed it to proceed 
at its own pace. The pair, however, had only gone a short distance, 
when, from some motive not recognizable to human perception, the 
creature was seized with a violent fit of "swerving;" or, in other words, 
it suddenly left the road, and, moving sideways, began describing a 
rather wide semicircle upon the common, which was, at the place, 
^brtunately smooth and level. 

But Ealing Common appears to be a favorite spot with laundresses, 
who there hang out their wet linen. The rider was dragged under one 
of the lines, loaded with damp clothes, while his horse pushed against 



292 THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 

an eldeily washerwoman, and, spite of her screams and resistance, pro- 
pelled her a considerable space. The gentleman, almost thrown by the 
unexpected motion of his nag, and half smothered by the wet garments, 
which clung about his head, was wholly at a loss to comprehend the 
cause of the female screams, rendered yet more discordant by the shrill 
cries of her terrified grandson. 




SWERVINQ. 



When, however, he understood everything, a donation calmed the 
agitation of the female, while, hastening to a roadside inn, he found a 
man who was willing to take the horse back to the livery stables. The 
rider returned by another conveyance, and he has never since trusted 
himself outside an unknown animal. 

Swerving, however, is no more than a mild form of shying, when com- 
pared with the numerous evils which result from defects of the visual 
organs. Every possible variety of eccentric gait is not to be imagined, 
much less is it to be described. One consequence of this peculiarity, 
perhaps the worst shape it can assume, is bolting or running away. 



THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 293 

When a horse is thus impelled, it is, as was insisted upon in the " Illus- 
trated Horse Doctor," useless to tug at the reins or to slash with the 
whip. Such acts may aggravate the peril, but they cannot check the 
movement, which originates in a dread that lifts its victim above all 
earthly restraints. The brain is then excited and confused ; the pain, 
which the body shall fail to recognize, nevertheless may prove an ad- 
ditional stimulant to the wildness that approaches near to positive 
despair. 

The quadruped is not to blame. It has been guilty of no fault. Its 
behavior may displease its present master; but the horse has no ability 
to struggle with a fear which was generated by disease. The alarm was 
the offspring of a cause beyond the aid of medicine and removed from 
the help of surgery. Such an animal, however, should not be left en- 
tirely to its fate; for "running away" is apt to become more frequent 
upon repetition. The eyes, thus afflicted, should be covered when the 
quadruped is taken abroad ; for it is safer to sit behind a creature which 
is sightless, than one which is possessed only of a dangerous or of an 
imperfect vision. 

Then, to explain the motives for that forbearance and to render clear 
the prudence of that gentleness which the reader has been recommended 
to practice. Let it be inquired, can pain be esteemed a corrective of 
terror ? It was an apprehension of suffering which created the alarm. 
To render such a dread a reality, does not appear to be the readiest 
method of dispelling the feeling which has been generated by the imagin- 
ary possibility of agony being encountered. The quickest plan by which 
any particular sensation can be destroyed, certainly is to excite another 
emotion that is the opposite of the one we are desirous should be dis- 
pelled. Then awaken an assurance of security, and, of course, alarm is 
annihilated. It may not be a popular or an heroic line of treatment 
which the author has presumed to propose; but, assuredly, the safest 
way to destroy a fear is to kindle an emotion* which shall be antagonistic 
to that it is desirable to remove. 

Such conduct, however, would be directly opposite to what is at 
present generally exemplified by the majority of mankind. A horse 
bolts, or it runs away, and the act is hastily concluded to originate in 
a "vicious propensity" which the animal delights in indulging. The 
creature is spoken of as a "bolter." The topmost speed and the blindest 
flight is, by equestrians, regarded as the gratification of a malicious spirit, 
and, thus considered, only elicits a firm resolution to subdue its exhibi- 
tion at every hazard. The reins are sawn and the whip is phed, until 
agony has driven terror to madness, and some awful disaster puts a 
termination to the unsightly proceeding. 



294 THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 

The following is intended to be an accurate representation of an inci- 
dent which the author witnessed, some years ago, in the neighborhood 
of Holloway. In the issue, however, no person was injured ; even the 
horse escaped unharmed. It would have been difficult to say which of 
the principal actors was the most frightened. Probably the alarm of 
each was as great as it was possible to be ; but the breakage of the shafts, 
the rupture of the traces, and the snapping of the reins mainly secured 
the immunity of all. No one, having seen the aspect borne by the event 
at one time, could have foretold how it was to terminate; assuredly the 
fortunate result was not facilitated by the gentleness or the self-posses- 
sion of the driver. That person did his best, no doubt without the 
intention of whipping up a catastrophe : he acted according to the re- 
cognized rules ; but it was owing to the reflection such a scene gave rise 
to that the author was led to recognize the folly of that behavior -which 
is generally displayed under the like alarming circumstances. 




EUNNINQ AWAY. 



Before concluding the present chapter, the reader is earnestly coun- 
seled to discard the many foolish tales he may have heard about the 
horse being naturally a "vicious animal." What reward is reaped from 
the indulgence of the creature's imaginary designs ? Death, injuiy, or 
disfigurement 1 Such consequences might ensue upon the promptings 
of insanity ; but no one, however, has supposed that madness instigated 
the conduct which man recognizes as "vice" in the horse. There is, in 
the world's opinions, a wide distinction separating the mad horse from 
the "vicious brute." The attributed "vice" is certainly not recognized 



THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES." 295 

as madness, although it may be accompanied by the temporary absence 
of consciousness. The vicious acts display too great a similarity through- 
out the entire equine race, distributed over the world, to be reoonciled 
with the presence of recognition ; while they are too regular in their 
development and far too heedless in their execution to accord with the 
promptings of any wicked disposition which would be dependent upon 
individual inclination. 

Then, the sameness which pervades the entire group of supposed 
"equine vices," cannot be reasonably accounted for in accordance with 
the popular belief. In the human being, each example of a vicious dispo- 
sition is conspicuous for adopting an independent and an eccentric course 
of action, though it occasionally practices imitation. Can animals in- 
struct or mimic one another? Have horses, only, the power to com 
municate " vice " to their companions ? Can they, only, teach self-mutila- 
tion, and learn suicide ? That is not to be credited. But will the reader, 
viewing them as inferior beings, consider the conduct of all as regulated 
by the impulses of instinct, generated by sudden emotion? Then, 
sameness is by no means extraordinary. Eating is in man an instinctive 
act. The modes of preparing food are various, and the methods of its 
division are as dissimilar in different nations, — for these actions are 
shaped by conviction or by reason ; but the manner in which the instinc- 
tive portion of the act is performed, the way in which the sustenance 
is masticated and is swallowed, though in some degree influenced by 
refinement, is mainly similar in all regions, and in every race of human 
beings. 

To run away from danger is an instinct in a horse. The animal does 
not fly from battle, only because man has deceived it into a faith that there 
is no danger where gunpowder is consumed. Terror renders the animal 
blind and unconscious. It has no more power to check the last effect 
than it has ability to contend against the first consequence. Pain induces 
a natural desire to escape from the cause of .suffering. Its wish may be 
gratified at the sacrifice of property ; but property is an artificial institu- 
tion, of which most animals have hitherto refused recognition. Same- 
ness of cause generally induces like results. Idleness leads to mischief; 
satiety promotes waste ; terror generates alarm ; and itching provokes 
scratching. These acts in the animal may be imprudently indulged; 
but the horse, having no conception of a future, of course cannot nicely 
calculate probabilities. Thus, if we run through the list of the so-called 
"vices," each will admit of a very easy and of a remarkably ready solu- 
tion. 

Let no man, therefore, speak of a "vicious horse." Let no reasona- 
ble being so far forget himself as to attribute design as a motive to the 



296 THE SO-CALLED "INCAPACITATING VICES/' 

creature which nature has endowed only with instinct. Needless torture, 
though inflicted on a brute, rebounds to strike humanity. But mankind 
have not yet so emerged from barbarism as to have entirely lost all relish 
for those prejudices which justify cruelty. The written history of the 
world is the sad record of a long struggle midst blood and suffering. 
Only of late years have men dared to relax the laws, and only recently 
have they sought to lessen crime, by educating the debased to perceive 
the beauty of goodness. Might not a similar spirit, applied to horses, 
diminish the number and lessen the fatality of equestrian accidents ? At 
all events, such a suggestion deserves a trial. It should be experimented 
with, if not for its novelty, because it proposes the adoption of behavior 
which must gratify the better feelings of the master, and because it holds 
forth a reasonable prospect of decreasing some of the more serious evils 
by which human life is, at the present moment, too frequently en- 
dangered. 

Before joining in the cry against equine vice, always investigate the 
act which is adduced to justify the prejudice. Do this quietly. Look 
fairly at the surrounding circumstances, and think how these might pos- 
sibly act upon a timid and a non-reasoning creature. Find out the 
cause, if possible ; because, by so doing, you will best serve your own 
interest. Knowing the cause, it is probable you may eradicate the effect. 
But, before this is undertaken, the party must be prepared to exercise his 
utmost patience ; for animals are slow to learn, and have to conquer their 
terrors before they can exemplify the easiest of lessons. Only, once 
taught, they are retentive scholars; and, by the pride they evince in 
their acquirements, reward their instructor. 

To stimulate the proprietor unto that course of conduct which is 
recommended above, it surely must be sufficient to remind him that the 
opposite method has been long as it has been most perseveringly tried. 
Severity, however, although enthusiastically exemplified, notoriously has 
only imperiled man, without in any way amending the habits of the 
animaj. Therefore the reader is asked, if it is reasonable to continue 
the proceeding which, having been largely tested, has induced nothing 
but misfortune ? 



CHAPTER IX. 



STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE, 



When considering this subject, the writer is freed from all restraints. 
He has to describe things which exist only in his own imagination ; not 
to depict any object which has been embodied as a reality, or which has 
been fancied by another individual. The author, however, will en- 
deavor to picture such an edifice as in some of its modifications any 
one, keeping a horse, should possess ability to erect. 

To some persons the following description may appear so grand as to 
border on the ridiculous. Compared with existing buildings, the 
author's proposal, no doubt, must seem to be of unnecessary dimensions. 
But a question of this nature is decided, not by what it seems but by 
that which it actually is. Is any provision hereafter made, that health 
does not demand ? If the place is large, so are the animals which are 
to be harbored within its walls. What is unnecessary, or where is the 
article which is useless ? As to the accommodation being too ample, 
what would a Saxon king of Britain say, could he be resuscitated and 
made to behold the palaces which her present Majesty possesses ? Nay, 
what would a workman who had existed during the reign of "glorious 
old Harry" exclaim, could he contemplate the accommodations which 
surround his descendants of the modern time ? 

Stables, as they now exist, are tainted with all the evils of antiquity. 
Improvement has changed the homes of the people, and has even 
amended the prison of the caged songster; but it has entirely skipped 
over the jail of the horse. The place and the people about it smack of 
a time when corruption was the rule and filthiness was a fashion. The 
question therefore to be considered is, not what stables are, but what 
they should be. What the animal requires to maintain it in its beaiity, 
in its health, and in its usefulness, is that which we now wish to ascer- 
tain. All the world has witnessed how much the quadruped can endure, 
when the master cares not for its comfort, is careless about its health, 
and does not study the requirements of its nature. 

Bricks and mortar, however expensive such articles may be, are about 

(29t) 



298 STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 

the most economical purchases which the horse owner can invest his 
cash in. It is folly to pay large sums for thew and muscle, when the 
place in which such properties are to be lodged will destroy the health 
and undermine the strength that are imperative to their preservation. 
One or two deaths in a prime stud may cost more dearly than would the 
largest of the proposed buildings. 

The money which shall be expended upon the improved stable must 
not be viewed as cash sunk in an unremunerative object, but as a sum 
invested in that which will immediately yield an exorbitant interest. It 
will decrease the veterinary surgeon's bill ; it will conserve the health 
and prolong the usefulness of the horse ; it will put the animal in better 
heart, and will enable the proprietor to dispense with those repeated 
purchases which now occasion the horse owner to stare at every fresh 
steed he chances to meet, and to inquire "if it be for sale?" 

When we wish to raise any erection, we should, before we begin to 
plan, thoroughly comprehend the purposes which the new edifice is to 
serve. A stable is not the home of a horse, in the same sense that a 
house is the home of a human being. The animal has not one room 
for day and another for night. It cannot retire ; it must remain in its 
compartment ; and it becomes the author's duty to point out what is im- 
perative to render the limited space a healthful abode. 

In the first place, everything like a stall must be abolished — the uses 
of such abominations'being supplied by loose boxes. Each box is to be 
eighteen feet square ; of these there are to be six, ranged in pairs ; three 
upon either side of the interior. Every box shall be rendered dry and 
sweet by six deep gutters, three on either side ; and all emptying into 
a central branch drain, which discharges its contents into a main drain, 
running through the length of the entire building. 

The gutters commence eighteen inches from the side divisions of the 
boxes ; the first is situated three feet from the external wall. Six feet 
divides the first from the second gutter ; the same space separates the 
second from the third gutter, which is removed only three feet from the 
central partition. 

The flooring or pavement between the gutters is arranged in gentle 
undulations, like the walks in a gentleman's garden. It is raised three 
inches higher in the center of each division than where its borders term- 
inate in the gutter. The two pieces of pavement at either end of the 
box begin at the elevation of three inches, and sink to the level of the 
lowest surface as they approach the gutter. Thus every portion of the 
pavement will incline one in twelve, a fall of fully sufficient magnitude 
to allow of the speedy disappearance of fluid, which is always ejected 
with force and in quantity. The gutters all terminate in "stink traps," 



STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 



299 



whicli give admission into the branch drains ; these last, as well as the 
main drain, consisting of circular earthen pipes. 

The undulations of the pavement not only facilitate the speedy re 
moval of fluid, and thus tend to keep in a state of purity the atmosphere 




MODES OF STANDINO AFFORDED BY AN XTNDCLATED PAVEMENT. 

within the building, but the surface presents every variety of standing 
ground to the choice of the quadruped. The animal, by this arrange- 
ment, can select an upward slope, a downward incline, or a level plane, 
whereon to rest the feet ; an ability of appropriation which intelligence 
will not be slow to comprehend or tardy to appreciate. 




,*^. 



DIAGKAUATIC SECTION OF A SVFEBFICIAL GUTTER, SEVERAL OF 7BICH KEEP DRY THE LOOSE BOXES. 

1 1. The Dutch clinkers. 

2 2. The prepared ground on which the gutters and the pavement repose. 
3. The semicircular earthenware gutter along which the fluid flows, covered by the loose iron grating. 

Each gutter should be two inches wide and two inches deep. They 
ought to commence at the depth of a Dutch clinker from the surface, 
and be covered by a perforated loose iron grating, the holes in which are 



800 



STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 



a quarter of an inch wide, one inch long, and the last distance asunder. 
Thus should the horse, when down, lie over one of these gutters, the 
body cannot then repose on a good conductor of heat. 

The gratings are not flat, but incline on every side toward the open- 
ings. This pattern was selected, because the author has beheld flat bars 
eaten into by the acridity of the fluid, and retaining liquid that yielded 
an abominable stench. Neither are these coverings fixed into their situ- 




PATTERN OF THE LOOSE IRON GRATING WHICH COVERS THE GUTTERS. 

ations. They are merely laid upon the side? of the earthen gutters, 
which are three inches wide at the openings ; the iron can aff'ord to 
dispense with other fastening than its own weight supplies. Should 
the channel which the grating guards ever become clogged, then the 
easy lift of the metal-work will allow the gutter to be cleansed. 




CROSS SECTION OF THE DRAINS IN LOOSE BOXES. 

Supposed to be seen on the line D E, in the plan of drains to be shortly introduced. 




LONGITUDINAL SECTION OP THE DRAINS IN LOOSE BOXES. 

Supposed to be viewed on the line E F, which is marked on the plan of drains. 

The openings, which are ample to permit the escape of all liquid, are 
purposely made small, because rats and other vermin too frequently 
enter stables by the drains. It is by no means unusual for such pests, 
where they are numerous, to attack and gnaw the hoofs of living ani- 
mals. The horn is without sensation ; therefore it can be gradually 



STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 



301 



removed without the horse being at all inconvenienced ; but, assuredly, 
the proprietor will be vexed at a destruction which necessitates the 
quadruped should be idle until nature has repaired the loss of substance. 

The branch drains, which commence at twenty inches from the sur- 
face, can be only entered through a stink trap ; that article also opposes 
an obstacle to the free passage of vermin. All these branches terminate 
in the main drain, which, where the tube begins, is situated thirty-four 
inches within the soil, and, as it proceeds, has a fall of about one foot in 
fifteen feet. 

Neither the pipes, the gutter, nor the clinkers are placed within or 
rest upon unprepared soil. Such may be the usual plan after which 
most stables are now built ; for the drainage of these places does not 
generally extend beneath the surface. The pavement of the contem- 
plated stable, however, is to be raised two feet above the level of the 
ground on which it is erected. For the entire space which the structure 
will occupy, the soil is, in the first instance, to be removed to the depth 
of one foot. After the foundations have been properly laid, the walls 
are then to be raised till they are built up two feet above the natural 
level of the surrounding surface. 

A layer of large flints or of coarse brick rubbish is then to be thrown 
in; this layer is to be two feet six inches in 
thickness. Within this, the main and the branch 
drains are to be arranged, though the principal 
drain will also have, toward its termination, to 
be sunk into the earth. The remaining six 
inches is to be filled in with coarse sand ; upon 
this the gutters are to commence. 

The gutters are two inches deep. They all 
originate at five inches from the upper surface 
of the clinkers. The shallowest has a fall of 
fifteen inches, but others have a much greater 
inclination, as all empty into the branch drains which communicate with 
the main drain. This last, sinking deeper as it proceeds, quits the build- 
ing at a depth of six feet six inches from the exterior of the sand within 
the walls of the stable. 

The contemplated structure will be thus thrice drained. First, there 
will be the deep tubular main and branch drains ; next, there is the sand 
and brick rubbish ; while, lastly, there is the surface drainage effected by 
the grated gutters. So much pains have been consciously bestowed 
upon the dryness of the building, because nothing will, in the end, prove 
more detrimental to the horse than confinement in a damp abode. Not 
only does perfect drainage conserve the health of the equine inhabitants, 




DIAGRAM, EXPLANATORY OF THB 
MANNER IN WHICH THE GROUND 
OF THE STABL£ IS FORMED. 



802 



STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 



but it likewise tends to preserve the bricks, the mortar, and the expensive 
fittings that should adorn every stable. 



m 




FLAN OF DRAINS. 



S indicates the position of a trap door, which leads to the coal-cellar under the gig-house. 

The dotted line, connecting the two letters D E, represents the situation of the supposed section of 
drains, previously introduced. 

The dotted line, indicated by the letters E F, points to the supposed situation of the cross section of 
drains, which has likewise been exhibited. 
V 

According to the supposed view, which forms the frontispiece to the 
present volume, there is a free but covered space, twelve feet wide, ex- 
tending all round the building. The soil of this free space, covered ride 
or ambulatory, should also have been removed, and subsequently have 
been filled up, after the plan already described, as necessary for the inte- 
rior of the stables. It need not, however, be paved with clinkers, as 
sand forms a better ground for a horse to exercise upon than can possibly 
be made with the hardest of known bricks. 

The roof, having sheltered the ride, terminates immediately over a 
metal gutter. This gutter communicates with five pipes upon the west- 
ern and upon the eastern sides, with two pipes upon the southern, and 
with three upon the northern aspects of the building. 

The roofing of the ambulatory is upheld by thirty-one posts, each 
twelve feet high, and the same distance apart. Between every two of 
these posts, on all sides of the stable save the front, are placed smaller 
uprights, which reach only to six feet. By these smaller posts are sup- 
ported one end of three movable bales on either side, the opposite extremi- 
ties of the bales resting against the larger posts ; each bale being six feet 
long, and reaching from the small uprights to the main supports. The 
first bale is one foot from the ground ; while the others are at equal dis- 
tances, and so placed as to leave four inches of clear pole to project above 
the highest rail. 

The pipes leading from the metallic gutter are fastened to the pillars 
and empty into a drain, which encircles the building and receives the 
water from the roof; it also conveys away that which is used in washing 



STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 303 

the carriages, or for general purposes. This is carried to any convenient 
pond, while the liquid manure of the stable is, by the tubular pipes, 
conveyed into a tank situated at least twenty yards from the 'principal 
building. 

Drainage of the entire roof is thus assured, and the dryness of the 
ambulatory in all weathers is rendered a certainty. No large stable can 
approximate to its requirements, in which a covered ride is not provided. 
It is, however, by no means uncommon to behold grooms trotting the 
animals on which they are seated, and which the servant is supposed to 
be taking out for the morning exercise ; but if a horse is to be mounted 
and put to its paces by the man as well as by the master, it necessarily 
foUows that the quadruped must perform double duty, or endure exces- 
sive wear. 

Many grooms habitually do more than merely ride. These men are, 
generally, excited when in the saddle, and removed from all chance of 
supervision. Some of these individuals delight in antics. Most stable 
attendants love to display the spirit of the quadruped's they wait upon; 
and all of lively dispositions, when their companions in service are look- 
ing on, naturally strive to convert duty into a pleasure. The horse is his 
own for the time, the animal being then entirely subject to the servant's 
authority, and he being far away from all that might control his actions. 

An anecdote will, perhaps, best illustrate the above observations. A 
medical gentleman, established in the north of England, possessed a 
handsome bay gelding, for which he had recently given a heavy price. 
Soon after the groom professed to have brought the quadruped into 
working condition, the doctor began to use the animal for his afternoon 
exercise. He was fond of a particular road ; but he could not persuade 
his horse to pass a certain low, roadside tavern. At the door of this 
place the quadruped would always stand still. Punishment was of no 
further use than to make the animal, much to its master's disgust, leave 
the door and bolt into the yard. 

There was nothing, then, to be done but to turn the creature's head 
homeward. No sooner did the quadruped's face point in this direction, 
than the steed began to exhibit a speed which seemed to say the doctor 
was riding on affair of life or death. The gelding, in consequence of the 
disgust which its strange proceedings had awakened, was shortly after- 
ward sold at "an awful sacrifice;" nor does the medical gentleman, to 
this hour, comprehend the reason of his dumb servant's eccentric be- 
havior. 

The public house was famous as the resort of grooms. Here, " early 
purl" was prepared in perfection; while, at later hours, nothing could 
excel either the "neat hquors" or the "dog's nose" which the tavern 



304 STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 

provided. The horse was accustomed to stand before the door ; or, 
during those days when the doctor might walk abroad, the animal was 
concealed within the yard. Intelligence had learned its lesson, and its 
owner, being a timid rider, wanted the resolution necessary to force his 
slave to receive and to obey a new instruction. 

The foregoing anecdote should also enforce the wisdom of masters 
making some further acquaintance with their living property than sim- 
ply to know it for its uses. There are, however, a numerous class to 
whom anecdotes are not illustrations, but nothing more than amusing 
stories, easily invented and readily embellished. With these people, 
nevertheless, seeing is believing. The writer, accordingly, with all 
humility, invites his readers to peep down some of the many dealers' 
yards, which they must pass during a morning's walk through the 
streets of London. 

One side of such a place is always thickly littered with straw, and 
securely roofed in. Slowly riding up and down this covered way may 
be beheld a mounted groom, who is leading another horse. Now, horse 
dealers are not deficient in knowingness, and many of them have, during 
former years, been in service themselves. Therefore, most of the class 
are well acquainted with the secrets of domestics ; and they never trust 
a steed to be exercised where some of the family may not overlook the 
groom. "Oh, yes, they do!" the reader may exclaim; "for I have 
often remarked 'breaks' being driven through the highways of the 
metropolis." Perfectly true I Such articles are to be met with in the 
middle or the after-part of the day, propelled by high-actioned and well- 
matched horses* A little inspection will show the reins are in the pos- 
session of no ordinary groom. The master or the foreman guides the 
quadrupeds which are then being shown to the public, and are not sim- 
ply raw purchases receiving exercise. 

Dealers always exercise the horses at home; the windows of the 
house invariably face the ride. Every London inhabitant may not be 
able to command a covered way opposite his drawing-room windows ; 
but he may prevent his servant from playing tricks with his animals, by 
ordering the man, when out exercising the creatures, to pass the family 
residence at stated periods. By such an arrangement, some of those 
strange accidents, which occasionally spoil the proprietor's breakfast, 
and which are ever reported to him as having been done by the horse 
in the night, might be prevented. While the owner, by claiming a right 
of supervision, would also instruct his servant that the quadrupeds the 
servant is engaged to attend upon are not absolutely given up to his 
pleasure. 

The proprietor will, however, gain much by never permitting his 



STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 



305 



animals to be exercised off the premises. This can only be done in the 
country, or where an ambulatory surrounds the stable. Under a shel- 
tering roof all weathers are immaterial ; the owner can easily ascertain 
whether his commands are shirked or fulfilled. A sick or a lame horse 
can be led about upon such a spot ; for the soil, consisting of sand, ana 
being always kept properly watered, is cool and soft to the feet, as well 
as free from dust; while a machine called a "tell-tale" will in some 
measure announce the time which the quadruped may be kept walking ; 
it will also bear testimony as to the rate at which the man travels. 




A PEEP INTO A dealer's YARD. 



These things, when supervision is impossible, are now left entirely to 
the groom; whereas a "tell-tale," fixed at any part of the building, will 
render the rate of exercise cognizable to an absent master. 

Exercise should never, save in illness, be given at a less pace than 
four miles an hour ; the horses, while it is administered, should always 

20 



306 STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 

be clothed more lightly than when standing still within the stable. It 
is fashionable for a groom to exercise a horse in full body-clothes : such 
a custom seems like tempting cough and cold, to which the quadruped, 
in this climate, is too much disposed. It must feel the change when its 
owner rides forth upon its unclothed body, and must suffer severely, 
should the master not return to the stable till the sun is down. Any 
active man should with perfect ease walk four miles in an hour; but 
such a rate is quick enough to oblige the animal to proceed at a gentle 
trot, which should not provoke perspiration, but will be sufficient exer- 
tion to promote a healthy glow of the skin. 

Each groom, when on the ambulatory, should walk between two 
horses, holding a rein in either hand. Should one of the animals show 
signs of excitement, he is to leave the quiet one behind to the care of 
any person who may be at hand, and to run once or twice round the 
building with the spirited steed. Such a manoeuvre is all that is neces- 
sary to quiet those creatures which, on first quitting the boxes, may skip 
or prance about. 

When returned to the stable, the horse does not enter solitary confine- 
ment. Its loose box is eighteen feet square, and is inclosed by a fence 
seven feet high. Only four feet of this partition is composed of close 
inch and a half boarding. At that height, a stout rail, having its edges 
rounded, is fixed upon the topmost edge of the wood-w©rk. From this 
rail spring round iron bars, placed three inches asunder, and having the 
higher extremity inserted into another rail, which is also rounded. 

Since the author, many years ago, first thought of an open trevise, he 
is happy to see the idea has been generally adopted. Too many of the 
parties who embrace the notion, however, make it secondary to ornamen- 
tation, and compel the simple intention to assume the shape of scroll 
work or of an elaborated pattern. The object is to permit the prisoners 
to see and to communicate one with another. Both of these purposes 
are better attained by a straight iron bar than by a fanciful decoration, 
which last, moreover, must be further objectionable on the score of ex- 
pense. 

All needful security would be well assured by an inclosure which, 
unlike the common trevise, would allow the quadruped to see its com- 
panions, and to exchange those recognitions which must lighten the 
tedium of captivity. Nor can the writer comprehend why such simple 
pleasures should be denied to these gentle creatures, which most men 
imprison more closely than carnivorous ferocities are commonly confined. 
The prevention of certain deadly diseases might apply to the stables of 
an inn ; but such occurrences have no right to be regarded as probabili- 
ties when a gentleman's establishment has to be considered. 



STABLES AS THET SHOULD BE. 



307 



The bars forming the upper portion of the divisions are not so close 
nor so bulky but the interspaces will allow the horses, after the Austra- 
lian mode of cementing friendships, "to rub noses," or to exchange large 
draughts of fragrant breath with their fellow captives. Such innocent 
familiarities will often lead to lasting friendships, from the establishment 




SECTION OP THB L003B BOXES. 

Supposed to be taken where the dotted line A B is situated upon the ground plan. 



of which the proprietor will reap an advantage. Quadrupeds perform 
much more gayly when harnessed with a companion that they love ; and 
should the owner be, at any time, pressed for room, one or two additional 
spare boxes can always be commanded by allowing equine friends to 
enjoy the sanie compartment. 

There is, however, running throughout society, a strange prejudice 
against permitting any communication between the inhabitants of the 
stable. Such a dislike cannot be justified by appealing to nature, as 
horses, when free to exercise a choice, always congregate in herds. 
Neither is it warranted by universal custom. In cavalry stables, the 
quadrupeds are merely separated by bales, or by poles suspended at 
either extremity by chains, and hanging between the animals. The habit 
also does not gain any support from consistency of conduct ; since the 
gentleman who shall shudder at the possibility of any communion in his 
stable, will, nevertheless, allow numerous equine creatures to assemble 
together, and leave them without check, when he turns his stud into the 
field to be "freshened up" by a "run at grass." 

The boxes have each a distinct entrance. The doors are fixed in the 
wall, and open upon the ambulatory. Eaeh entrance is nine feet high 
and six feet six inches wide, all sharp edges and projecting iron-work, as 
hinges, latches, locks, etc., being strictly forbidden. Such things often 
Injure animals while in the act of passing through these openings, and 
should never be permitted to project in any well-managed establishment. 

The folding doors are divided into two parts, though not absolutely 
in the center, since the lower portion extends only four feet from the 
ground. The upper part can be thrown wide, without releasing the 



SOS 



STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 



quadruped. The ventilation is thereby rendered far purer, while the 
captivtf is indulged with a more animated view than the walls of the 
interioi can afford. The quadrupeds will protrude their heads through 
such spaces, and remain in that position for successive hours, looking 
the pictures of mild contentment, and contemplating liberty, which a 
generous nature appears to have relinquished almost without regret. A 
simple creature may here in shade enjoy the summer breeze, as it blows 
aside the forelock ; for if man is, by his position, forced to confine the 
steed, he is not compelled to aggravate the sufferings which necessarily 
attend the condition of captivity. 




A HORSE LOOKING THROUGH THE HALF-OPENED STABLE DOOR. 



The doorway, being of those dimensions which have been already 
described, should afford all necessary security, especially when the groom 
adopts the proper method of conducting an animal through the ample 
space. 

No possible accident should impress the memory of the captive with 
the notion that doors and anguish are associated one with the other. 
The habit of the animal, being accustomed to advance the head through 
the upper space, would, moreover, be of some service in dispelling all 
idea of pain, should the impression have been received prior to the horse 
coming into the possession of its present owner. The sight also of the 



STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 



309 



man, to whom tlie affectionate creature may be attached, would, more- 
over, attract the notice and inspire the confidence of timidity. 




OONDCCTINa THE HORSB THEOUOH AN ORDINARY STABLE DOOE. 



The lower division of the door should, on fiine nights, after dusk, be 
opened, that the prisoner may stretch its limbs and bathe its hoof in the 
evening dew. So the grass is kept sufficiently short, not to afford more 
than a nibble, no harm, but much good, will arise from sanctioning so 
innocent a luxury as a stroll in the free air. The eye of the horse fits 
the creature to roam by night ; and man should, by this time, have suf- 
fered enough to cause a doubt as to the wisdom of crossing nature in 
her many wonderful provisions for the welfare of her children. 

Such a suggestion may startle the prejudices which are inherent in the 
proprietors of most training stables. These places are, however, chiefly 
situated on the open downs, where ground is cheap, and the herbage 
scarcely affords a bite for the close-feeding sheep. Half an acre of such 
land could, without much expense, be attached to each box. On to this 



31^ STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 

the flock might be turned by day ; but so much liberty could be afforded 
the equine captive during the night. The racer being reared for speed, 
it is surely wrong to cramp its limbs by too stringent a confinement ! 

Something also is attained, beneficial to other parties than the quad- 
rupeds, by having the doors of the boxes to open on the ambulatory. 
The necessity for mounting many animals within the stables would 
thereby be avoided ; while the groom, upon rainy days, need not exert a 
dangerous haste, for fear of wetting his best livery. Hurry is never a 
safe emotion, when exhibited within the stable. The inhabitants, when 
they behold their attendant looking vexed, see him move quickly, and 
hear him speak loudly, from such signs infer danger ; or timidity flushes 
with a certainty of his displeasure. It is the fault of the present race 
of stable-men, that they regard the horse as a senseless thing ; whereas 
the dumb are always the observant, and, generally, are very sympa- 
thetic. They draw conclusions from scenes and acts which it may be 
beyond their stretch of reason to accurately comprehend. Being liable 
to misconstrue, the less they see of exciting spectacles the better. 

Within the loose box there is no rack for hay, to strain the horses' 
necks, and shake seeds into their eyes, which must be open to direct the 
teeth. The ordinary manger is also absent. The horse does not sit to 
eat, nor can it lift th§ food to the mouth ; but naturally it lowers the 
head to its gratification, and thus has no need to be accommodated with 
exalted fixtures. As it can with ease feed off the ground, why should 
man, in the nineteenth century, persist in forcing the animal, which he 
domesticates, to forego the habits which nature has engrafted on ex- 
istence ? 

No rope fastens an animal directly under the opening to a dirty hay- 
loft. No puffs of cold wind, therefore, can blow upon the quadruped 
through such an aperture, which is not a loss, for horses are very sus- 
ceptible to colds, which modem stables are ingeniously arranged to 
encourage. Like all life, when hotly and impurely inclosed, the steeds 
become morbidly delicate: the pampered daughters of the wealthy 
cannot, possibly, be more vulnerable to evil influences than are those 
equine slaves, whose service demands a body vigorous with health, 
strong and able to encounter all the seasons in their vicissitudes. 

There are, within the building, three small compartments, placed 
against the outer wall of each box, and resting upon the ground. Two 
are situated on one side of the entrance, the third stands by itself in the 
opposite corner. All project eighteen inches from the wall, and two are 
eighteen inches high. One compartment is used for water, and is raised 
two feet, being, as regards length, of the same dimensions. One is in- 
tended to hold prepared food — this is three feet long ; while that meant 



STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 



311 



to receive the occasional allowance of grass extends one foot beyond the 
last dimension. The bottoms of the food receptacles are both raised six 
inches from the level of the stable ; an arrangement which hopes to an- 
ticipate any strain upon the muscles of the neck, should the animal be 
more than usually compact in its developments. 

Certain horse proprietors are loud in their commendations of cut food, 
which they assert can be eaten quickly, and, therefore, allows so much 
longer a period for resting the body. Stable condiments also are adver- 
tised as fattening and appetizing adjuncts. To both propositions the 
author must object. The body's rest depends not upon the quickness 
with which the contents of the manger can be swallowed, but upon the 
ease with which they can be digested, after sustenance has entered the 
stomach. The last function is not facilitated by the provender being 
bolted ; nor does it at all depend on the shortness of the period in which 
a certain quantity of victuals can be put out of sight. As to those 
stimulants which are supposed to increase the appetite and to favor the 
accumulation of fat, carters having, for ages, been condemned because 
they resorted to such nostrums, it is difficult to understand the reason 
why these things are patronized, when openly compounded, puffed, and 
sold by advertising tradesmen. 




A 



SECTIONS OP THE SHOOT lEADINO TO THE FEEDING TROUGH. 

a. The movable or slidiDg shutter, which, by a slanting surface made within the substance of the wall, 
leads to the corn trough that is situated on the ground. 

h. The sliding shutter let into the wall, the lower compartment of which alone admits of an upward 
motion, 
c. The corn trough and slanting surface, guarded by the shutter, as seen from above. 



The capacity for rest, moreover, depends upon the constitutional 
necessities of the body which is to enjoy it. The horse is a creature of 
activity. It sleeps lightly, and is fitted to eat its food as it walks. The 
quadruped requires little rest. To force those conditions, necessary for 
the repose of weary existence, upon wakeful life, such as silence, soli- 
tude, and darkness, is merely to increase the severity of that imprison- 
ment which every English animal is born to undergo. It is torture, and 
betrays only the ignorance of those by whom such cruelty is practiced. 



312 



STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 



The receptacle for the prepared food can, by means of a sliding aper- 
ture inserted into the wall, be filled from without : thus the necessity for 
a groom entering the compartment of a restless or ravenous quadruped, 
whenever the animal is fed, may be avoided. Contention between the 
man and a voracious horse can be, by this arrangement, rendered an im- 
possibility ; and it is a great point in the conduct of a stable to keep the 
attendants in good humor. Ignorant servants, when enraged, are too 
much disposed to vent their bad temper upon any inferior over which 
they may be invested with authority. 




ONE OF THE BOXES IN WHICH THE FOOD 13 PLACED, THE BETTER TO SHOOT IT INTO THE 
CORN TROUGH. 

Moreover, a great deal of the excitement generally displayed by par- 
ticular animals, where every prisoner can witness the distribution of the 
food to the rest, is, by the above plan, entirely abolished; and every 
observant stable attendant well knows how greatly quietude favors a 
speedy attainment of, as well as tends to, the 'preservation of condition. 




A GBOOH SHOOTINO FOOD IN THE TROUGH, WHILE STANDING OUTSIDE THE STABLE. 



By means of the box and the sliding shutter, the food may be served to 
all ahnost as rapidly as a man can walk. The provender is first divided 
into portions, and these are put into open boxes, which are placed upon 
a barrow. One of these boxes the man empties through each shoot, 



STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 



313 



and then, having washed out the utensil at the pump under the covered 
way, returns it to the provender-house. This last plan, however, en- 
tails some trouble; therefore only in exceptional cases should it be 
adopted. 

As to the supply of liquid, some arrangement is also needed : the 
bottom of the water trough is level with the surrounding pavement. 
The supply pipe is commanded by a tap, and all the receptacles can be 
simultaneously filled by means of the tube that rises above the superior 
margin of the trough. Below the earth is a conduit, which conveys 
away the superabundant liquid. Into this tube or drain two smaller 
pipes empty, both of which arise from the interior of the receptacle. 
The smallest pipe reaches almost to the topmost edge of the compart- 
ment, and is simply intended to prevent the possibility of an overflow. 
The other and the larger tube is inserted into the bottom of the trough, 
and the removal of a plug, which commands the entrance, permits the 
contents of the trough to flow through this pipe into the larger conduit 
below, which empties its contents into the main tubular drain. By 
turning on the supply, which is derived from a cistern to be hereafter 
mentioned, and by also opening the waste pipes, all the troughs can at 
any time be quickly cleansed. 




LONGITUDINAL SECTION OF THE WATER SUPPLY. 



The cistern is situated in the boiler-house, and is elevated several feet 
above the level of the stable. The boiler-house adjoins the boxes, and 
from the raised cistern springs the supply pipe, which is carried under 
ground through the stables. Water, however, will always rise to its 
own level ; this property convinces us that the troughs will be speedily 
filled whenever the taps are turned. The taps by which the flow is 
commanded are both placed in the first box, and by this arrangement 
the animal can receive fresh water four times daily, without fluid being 
carried to the horse. The contents of the customary pails are too fre- 
quently spilt by careless grooms. The horse naturally thrives best in a 
dry abode. Besides, the drink, as in nature, is always before the creat- 
ure ; for if presented only at stated periods, the draught may be offered 
when desire does not require liquids ; or it may be withheld when thirst 
is so powerful as to engender a disinclination for solid nourishment 



314 



STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 



Moreover, servants are not always attentive to their monotonous duties ; 
and the animal, in consequence, may be denied a necessary supply of 
fluid. 

The water troughs are, moreover, recommended by further reasons. 
Horses are blest with acute senses ; and everybody must have observed 
the animal blow upon, or rather smell, fluid before it partakes of the 
refreshment which it needs. The stable pails generally stand about ; 
such things are exceedingly handy; and we need not be surprised if 
they are occasionally used for other than for cleanly purposes. The 
troughs, being fixed, are secured to one service ; the pipes emptying into 
the receptacles prevent the purity of the supply from being tampered 
with. The above advantages are also associated with the ascertained 
fact that the horse, with water constantly before it, drinks less than the 
animal to which the pail is brought only after hours of enforced absti- 
nence have generated a raging thirst. 

The roof of the proposed stable should be of the ordinary description, 
or should slope from a central ridge toward the outer walls. The cen- 
tral compartment is eighteen feet from the walls ; it is twenty -two feet 
from the level of the interior ; and its margins rest upon walls which are 
raised twelve feet high. 




PLAN OF ROOF. 



H. A trap door in the roof of the ambulatory, which leads to the entrance of the loft aboTe the 

sheltered ground. 



A plan of the contemplated roof is presented to the notice of the 
reader, who will perceive it consists of two parts. The larger portion 
is gabled at each extremity, and has a span of thirty-six feet. The 



STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 315 

smaller, or surrounding division, merely protects the covered ride or 
ambulatory. Where the two inclines meet, are hollows, which are tech- 
nically spoken of as "valleys." The water within these valleys is con- 
veyed away by means of four large pipes, two on either side, which are 
let into the outer wall ; while the rain, which flows down the outer 
incline of the smaller division, drains into a metallic gutter, whence it 
is carried away by fifteen smaller pipes. 

Over the center of the larger division of the roof is placed a venti- 
lator. It commences twenty-one feet from the northern extremity of the 
building, and it extends, on either side, six feet from the center. It is 
thirty feet long, and its sides are four feet high. The sides are composed 
of four-feet louvre boards, which, being set in working frames, can, by 
means of lines which reach to the ground, be opened or closed as the 
increased temperature calls for air or the cold demands protection. 

The ventilator is roofed with six-ounce glass, which is of more than 
a sufficient stoutness to resist any tempest that occurs in this climate. 
The central ridge of the ventilator rises twenty-eight feet from the pave- 
ment ; and it is laterally supported by the boarded sides which have 
already been described. The roof of this part of the edifice also serves 
the purposes of windows, admitting Hght to the interior. 

Should any person feel disposed to complain of the probable cost 
likely to attend this last provision, let such person remember that the 
first oulay, in this particular, is likely to be the last. The material is, 
moreover, cheaper than it formerly was ; while its elevation removes it 
from all reasonable chance of breakage. The rain will wash the outer 
portion, while the position of the interior surface will prevent the accu- 
mulation of much soil ; consequently the glass will be spared all those 
accidents which too frequently disturb the peace of housekeepers during 
the cleansing of ordinary windows. 

The glass is designedly placed upon the roof, as when stable windows 
occupy the usUal situations, they are generally suffered to be in so foul 
a condition as almost to counteract the purpose of their institution. 
Some of the panes are commonly broken ; and where the glass is absent, 
its place is rudely supplied by rags or by paper, while the window-ledge 
is crowded with those articles which it is desired should be ready to the 
hand, or which it is wished to store snugly away. 

When a stable is without windows, the dark house encourages a lazy 
servant. The architect's neglect also teaches the man a want of regard 
for that cleanliness which is essential to the well-being of the horse. 
With such a place, the absence of care soon becomes an unavoidable 
necessity, which the cunning of ignorance will not be slow to perceive, 
and to act upon, as being a justification of idleness. Nothing either in 



316 STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 

or about the stable should be sanctioned which would not accord with 
the cleanliness of a home or with the sweetness of a dairy. No dust 
should be suffered to accumulate in holes or on beams ; while the animals 
are taking their early exercise, the flooring ought to be thoroughly washed 
down every morning, and the wood-work should be scrubbed once every 
week. 

A stable, to be the abode of health, cannot command too much air, 
nor can it possibly admit too much light. The interior, however, should 
not be whitewashed in accordance with the general fashion. This glar- 
ing absence of color may, at first, look excessively clean, but it also 
exposes the smallest neglect of purity, which cannot always be present 
where animals are lodged. The cheapness of the wash may be its 
recommendation with those who are very studious of economy ; but, in 
the end, it proves a dear substitute for a better covering, as a white 
surface causes that strain upon the optic nerve which renders blindness 
a common malady among the inhabitants of snowy regions. 

Let the roof and walls be colored with a green which is made by 
mixing blue and yellow together. The light will, by the green tint, be 
partially absorbed, while the eye of the captive will be soothed by 
gazing upon the hue which constitutes the livery of nature. The pig- 
ment should not be purchased, for though the color which may be 
bought will be probably brighter than any made at home, excessive 
brightness is, in the present case, no advantage, and the more brilliant 
compound is dangerous, because it may consist of arsenic combined with 
copper. Or should a brighter color be very much desired, such can 
now be obtained, which is uncontaminated with any preparation of 
aersenie: though, probably, at a greater expense than that which is 
easily made by mixing together damp blue and powdered yellow ocher 
with size and water. 

The roof is slated ; but as this species of covering is always very hot 
in summer and equally cold in winter, the temperature of the interior 
will, in some measure, be less liable to such variations if the spaces 
between the joists are filled with solid plaster. Over the last material 
laths are nailed ; and the surface is then to be thinly ceiled. The laths 
should, however, be of a stouter kind than those which are generally 
employed ; the reason of their introduction is to anticipate the possi- 
bility of heavy lumps of plaster falling, and either injuring or frightening 
the horses. 

The reader will now accompany the author to the back of the imag- 
inary stable, which faces the north, and is divided from the last loose 
box by a stout wall. 

The northern extremity is of the same width as the other parts of the 



STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 



31t 



building ; it extends twelve feet beyond the last loose box. Its interior 
is divided into three rooms, each twelve feet square, and all separated 
by brick walls. Entrance to these apartments is gained through three 
doors, the upper parts of which, being glazed, will also serve the purposes 
of windows. 




ELEVATION OF THE NORTHERN END, OR BACK OF THE STABLE. 



The center division is sacred to the harness : it is kept warm by means 
which will be hereafter described. The trappings of the horse are too 
perishable and too costly to be housed within the stable. Damp, dust, 
and ammoniacal fumes are all injurious to this expensive article. Damp 
cannot but be present in the abode of animal life ; the breath, insensible 
perspiration, evaporation from the water-troughs, washing of the pave- 
ment, hoofs, etc. are the common sources of the supply. The dust is 
occasioned by the spreading of the litter, the movement of the grooms 
and of the animals, as well as by many causes of motion, which can 
never occur without sending the finer particles of decaying matter fly- 
ing from the various substances which are strewn about. Ammoniacal 
fumes are also generated by the decomposition of the equine excretions ; 
however carefully the interior may be drained, or however pure the 
atmosphere may seem to human sense, this gas must more or less exist 
in every stable. Such taints, besides damaging the substances, also 
necessitate extra cleansing; though moderate attention is preservative 
in its nature, anything approaching to excessive labor not only destroys 
the fresh aspect of the harness, but is provocative of its speedy annihila- 
tion. 

Within the harness-room all the clothes (after being dried and aired) 
are to be placed, and in this apartment every piece of harness (subse- 
quent to being cleansed) should be stored ; it is there hung upon appro- 
priate fixtures and kept ready for instant use, being protected by thick 
curtains, which are made to fall over and to cover the several pieces. 

On the left of the spectator, looking toward the building, is another 
room, which acts the part of a hay-loft. Within twelve feet square is 
stored all the provender and the litter immediately requured for the 



318 STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 

horses. The space may appear somewhat limited for the supply of six 
horses ; but enough for present use can be housed, and grooms are not 
rendered careful by the contemplation of anything like a superabundance. 
It is the filthy custom, now prevalent, to keep the food of a cleanly ani- 
mal in a loft immediately above the stalls in which the horses are con- 
fined. Thus the store-house is commonly located in the situation which 
is the most directly exposed to the volatile or the heated emanations of 
the stable.. Nor is this the only source of contamination. The groom's 
living and sleeping apartment opens by a door, which is not generally 
shut, and immediately leads to the equine pantry. 

The author dare not further pursue this topic. The fancy of the 
reader, guided by the above facts, can readily picture everything that 
could be written about the fitness of provender thus housed, for pro- 
moting the health of a creature remarkable for the niceness of its habits, 
the acuteness of its senses, and the delicacy of its tastes. It may be 
forced to consume, and may, at length, morbidly " grow fond of that it 
feeds upon;" but such food cannot otherwise than undermine the health 
which sustenance should promote. 

On the opposite side to the harness-room is another compartment, 
which is used as a tool-house. There are various items employed about 
a stable which commonly litter the space inhabited by the horses, — such 
as brooms, mops, forks, pails, combs, brushes, leathers, bandages, etc. 
Everything occasionally used, or daily employed, either on the animals 
or for the vehicles, is deposited in the tool-house. For such articles 
as come under the denomination of lumber, and are not of any present 
or probable utility, another place is provided, which will be shortly 
alluded to. 

By thus allotting a store for everything, and encouraging habits of 
regularity, a considerable sum is saved, while the comfort of the grooms 
is provided for by every article being, at all times, to be readily found. 
By ordering all appliances to be carried back when no longer in use, 
nothing is left about the stable to litter the place, or be damaged by the 
animals. 

Stable implements, in the hands of an irate groom, have proved ter- 
rible weapons of offense. A horse has been stabbed with a fork ; a blow 
given with the edge of a pail has inflicted a fearful gash. The forma- 
tion of the cranium in most existing stable attendants should suggest 
the prudence of not allowing temptation to be too convenient to such 
individuals when they become excited. 

Having inspected the northern extremity, the reader will now be kind 
enough to move, in imagination, to the front of the erection. Before 
this can be seen, the sides and northern end of the ambulatory, or cor- 



STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 



319 



ered ride, will have been observed ; in the front view, the intermediate 
posts and rails, which elsewhere define the path, are absent. The floor 
of the ambulatory being raised on all sides two feet above the surface, 
from the level of the front there extends, for twenty feet, a sloping pave- 
ment, which gradually reaches the surrounding ground. This arrange- 
ment is fully illustrated in the frontispiece to the present volume. 




> ELEVATION OP THE SOUTHERN END, OR FRONT OF THE STABLE. 



The stable, notwithstanding the last provision, is not supposed to be 
placed on a marsh, within a hollow, or even upon a decided level ; but, 
when a choice is possible, it should be located upon the brow of a hill. 
It is there favorably situated for the dryness of the interior as well as 
for the action of the drains. 

Having defined the position of the building, the author will now con- 
sider the last engraving, which was an imaginary front view of the sup- 
posititious building. This portion of the erection stands before the loose 
boxes, and, like the back, is also divided into three compartments. It 
is separated from the stables by a stout wall, consequently there is to 
the interior no entrance by this direction. 

The corner space to the left of the spectator, who is supposed to stand 
in front of the edifice, consists of one room, which is plastered, ceiled, 
and boarded — the dimensions being by breadth twelve, by depth eighteen 
feet. The entrance is guarded by a pair of well-made and closely-fitting 
folding doors. The interior is meant to serve as a double 
coach-house. The place is made as comfortable and is 
kept as free from drafts as its uses will permit. 

At the opposite comer exists a similar but smaller 
apartment. It possesses doors like the first; also, it is 
similarly provided with such things as ceiling, plaster, 
and boards, which are not customarily to be seen in these 
places. The room is as wide as the coach-house, but 
reaches back only ten feet ; it is meant to serve as a gig- 
house. Beneath the flooring is the coal-cellar, and which is gained by a 
trap door cut in the floor of the present apartment. Close to this trap 




PLAN OF THE COAl- 
CELLAR, WHICH 
IS IMMEDIATELY 
UNDER THE QIQ- 
EOUSE. 



320 STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 

an entrance is pierced in the parting wall ; and upon the last door being 
opened, as well as the trap being raised, a direct descent is formed, lead- 
ing immediately to the cellar. 

Between the gig and the coach house there must exist a clear space, 
eighteen feet deep, twelve feet wide, and of the last extent in height, 
when measured from its roof to the pavement, which is level with the 
ambulatory. The covering to this ground being flat and less lofty than 
the slates of the building, is proof that a clear space must exist above it. 
The place itself, however, contains nothing that can tempt cupidity. It 
is evidently a sheltered ground, where the carriage may be got ready, 
the harness may be cleaned, or any job be executed which might soil 
other portions of the interior. Such a spot is handy for many purposes, 
and serves as a loitering chamber for those idle gossips who delight in 
hanging about large stables. 

Against the wall of this last locality, and near to its right-hand 
corner, is a projecting block of brick-work, which measures three feet by 
two and a half feet. It is evidently neither useful nor ornamental; 
therefore the reader rightly conjectures it merely indicates the presence 
of a chimney. Close to the chimney, but nearer to the entrance, is fixed 
a pump. From a plug, ready to be inserted into the muzzle, and from 
a pipe running some feet up the wall, which it ultimately pierces, evi- 
dently the pump is occasionally used to force water into a hidden recepta- 
cle situated above the surrounding level. In the left-hand corner of this 
clear space is built a convenience for the stable servants, which should 
be kept as clean as any other part of the edifice. 

Looking once more at the front of the stable, we perceive there is a 
clock above the sheltered ground, while immediately under the clock 
something resembling the top of a door can be discerned. The roof 
of the ambulatory has also a trap let into it, which must be situated 
directly beneath this door. The trap being raised, and the door 
opened, by means of a ladder, which should hang upon the outer side 
of the ambulatory, admittance is gained into the clock-loft: by this 
means the works of the time-piece can be regulated; while the re- 
maining space affords ample accommodation for storing, and also offers 
a spot where are housed those articles which are of no immediate 
utility. 

Between the gig-house and one of the first loose boxes there is a 
space of eight feet by twelve feet. This forms a room which has two 
entrances : one is by a door pierced through the wall of the gig-house ; 
the other is by a door, the upper part of which is glazed, and which 
opens from the ambulatory. Leading to the floor of the apartment are 
placed before each door two steps, the pavement of this room being two 



STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 



32! 



feet lower than any other level in the building. The ceiling, however, 
is ten feet removed from the floor. 

In the farthest corner, raised against the northern wall of the com- 
partment, is situated a self-acting and slow-consuming boiler. The fire 
faces toward the door, and the chimney has already been alluded to as 
built out on to the covered ground. Commencing in the farther corner, 
at the opposite extremity to that occupied by the door leading to the 
gig-house, is a staircase, which obviously conducts to an upper apart- 
ment. 



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3^ 



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EXiE RCIS IN CI GROUND 



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EX;E RCiiSINC! CR.OUNDI 






GROUND PLAN. 






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1 oblong space above the loose boxes, which is indicated by dotted lines, denotes the size 
of the central ventilator. 



Above the boiler, and removed but one foot from the ceiling, is a 
cistern, which occupies the entire length of the wall, or extends for 
twelve feet : it is four feet high and three feet wide. The situation of 
the cistern explains the use of the forcing pipe, which leads upward 
from the pump and supplies the cistern as has been noticed. From this 
reservoir the boiler is replenished, and the water troughs are kept per- 
petually filled. The pipe leading to the stable quits the cistern at 
eighteen inches from the bottom; consequently the horses will want 
fluid, while the cistern holds a supply sufficient to last some time when 
only used to fill the boiler. This arrangement involves a necessary arti- 
fice. Pumping is hard work, and grooms are not famed for a love of 
mechanical labor; but these men are always clamorous at any stint 
within their dominions. They will grumble loudly if the horses lack 
water, and persecute their fellow, whose turn it may be to pump, until 
the defect is remedied; whereas the boiler might become red hot, and an 

21 



322 STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 

explosion threaten to demolish the building, without one of these people 
being moved by the likelihood of such a catastrophe. 

From the boiler proceed pipes which travel into the loose boxes, into 
the harness-room, into the coach-house, and into the gig-house. Within 
these tubes circulates warm'water, the fluid being returned again to the 
boiler when its caloric has been diffused through the interior. Few 
persons imagine how important warmth is to the welfare of the horse. 
Cold immediately roughens the coat, and if not speedily counteracted, 
stiffens the limbs or depresses the spirit. "Were gentlemen willing to 
maintain the temperature of their stables, that lengthy coat, which nature 
now sends as a needed protection, would not be produced : the follies 
and the barbarities of clipping and singeing might then be abolished. 
The animal which is properly lodged can alone attain the limit of pos- 
sible perfection. 



1 




1 




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X 


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c r ' 

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COACH 
HOUSE 


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PLAN OF THE HOT WATER SHBTIOE. 



Impure heat generates damp : the moisture derived from such a source, 
being finely divided, is far more penetrating, far more destructive, and 
altogether more noxious, than a similar amount of water could prove. 
It destroys clothing, encourages moths, dims plated and painted orna- 
ments, rusts steel, soils varnish, rots wood and leather, — in short, there 
is nothing within the stable but suffers more or less ; while in the animal, 
colds, coughs, and influenzas are but the intimations of its presence, the 
full effects being shown by the breaking forth of farcy and of glanders. 
Better be without horse and stable, than to be possessed of both, and 
be forced to lodge the quadruped where cold and damp prevail. 

Few gentlemen care about, or probably no gentleman has ever se- 
riously thought about, the coach-house being aired. Yet persons 
tenderly brought up, nursed in luxury, and frequently in delicate health, 
have the carriage kept near to a close stable, or housed in a building sadly 
exposed to the moist atmosphere of this northern climate. The vehicle 
is pulled out of such a place, is hastily made to wear an outward smart- 
ness, and is then whisked to the front door of the mansion. Ladies, 



STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 323 

habited in the thinnest of evening dresses, leave their warm apartments 
and subject their exposed beauties to the chiUing effects which must 
necessarily be present in vehicles so carelessly sheltered. Here, after 
the bustle of preparation, they remain inactive for some period. They 
are set down at a fashionable hotel, and return thence in the same con- 
veyance. The next day they naturally complain of a cold, supposed to 
have been caught at the party of last night ! 

People when seated within a carriage, the windows being up, may 
esteem themselves protected from the night air ; but they would be safer 
walking through frost or rain than traveling inactive within such a 
receptacle. Consumption is far more prevalent among carriage folk 
than it is common among races which are supposed to exist in spheres 
liable to all the ills of life. Poverty has to encounter many perils, and 
is obliged to endure many privations; but it is not exposed to those 
snares which the ignorance of wealth has invented for its own destruc- 
tion. 

Perhaps, in this country, of many classes, the richer are most troubled 
with colds, with coughs, and with diseases of the air-passages. Good 
living, no labor, and careful nursing may enable them to linger on to a 
good old age ; but comparatively few know the blessings of a vigorous 
being after the fiftieth year has passed. Warm rooms, a study of the 
weather, and ample envelopes prolong the Hfe; but such things cannot 
restore the health. Gout, paralysis, epilepsy, with numerous brain dis- 
orders, are not common in agricultural districts, where carriages are 
scarce. Bronchitis and laryngitis are almost the property of the wealthy. 
Yet many men have paid pleasing compliments to the aristocracy con- 
cerning their longevity ; but no one has hitherto traced the cause which 
bows the youthful scion to an early grave, and makes a valetudinarian 
of the noble who should be still enjoying a vigorous middle life. Inven- 
tion has been racked to keep the feet warm when within the vehicle ; 
but it seems not to have occurred to those numerous parties whose office 
it is to minister to the luxuries of the rich, that the interior of a carriage 
might be benefited by a secure lodging, or by its being thoroughly aired. 
Such conveyances, for hours, during the most rainy nights, crowd about 
the doors of fashionable mansions, the woolen lining or the cotton cover- 
ing of the interior imbibing the malaria which resides in the heavy mid- 
night atmosphere of most large towns. Women, in the tenderest dawn 
of approaching maturity, and flushed with the pleasure of the dance, 
enter these seemingly-sheltered receptacles, where, lulled by the motion, 
they soon fall asleep. Activity is changed for instantaneous stagnation ; 
the bustle of amusement for the stillness of repose ; the heated room for 
the cold interior of a damp carriage ; and, during the drive home, every 



324 



STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 



pore of tLo body being open, need we feel surprised should the seeds of 
any lurking evil be kindled into activity ? 

It is better to be without a carriage than to command one of the ordi- 
nary description ; one that is seldom employed, or that is kept in a moist 
shed. All which comfort requires might be attained, were damp ex- 
cluded from the coach-house, and were this portion of the building 
warmed with the same means as keeps up the temperature of the stable. 
To prove how readily and how cheaply this might be accomplished, the 
warm water pipes which enter the boxes and the harness-room also 
penetrate the coach-houses — all being supplied by a furnace which is 
denominated "slow-consuming." 

These boilers are of modern invention, and do not require constant 
attendance. They occupy comparatively little space ; and as they burn 
coke, of course they are maintained in operation at small expense. An 
advertisement informs the author they can 
always be seen in operation at No. 155 Cheap- 
side, being denominated "Riddle's Slow Com- 
bustion Boilers." They are merely proposed 
to the reader as the most recent improvement 
of which the author is apprised. 

Having enlarged upon the advantages to be 
secured by the existence of a boiler, the reader 
must next accompany the author up the stairs 
which lead from the boiler-house to the room 
above. Close to the northern wall, near to the center of its space, is 
seen an ample trap door. Recollection assures us it is situated imme- 
diately over the cistern ; its evident use is to permit the reservoir to be 



^ 



PL4N OP THE TfATCHER'S-ROOM. 

T indicates the jwsition of the 
trap, which allows of entrance to 
the interior of the cistern. 




SECTION OF THE INTERIOR. 

Supposed to be drawn where the letters D point to a line which runs across the ground plan. 



cleansed of the deposit which most kinds of water will soon leave be- 
, hind. Additional room is secured for this small apartment by the inser- 
tion of a large dormer, or garret window, which allows the ceiling to be 



STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 



325 



even with the highest rafter of the roof There is also another ana a 
smaller window, that enables the person looking through it to command 
a perfect view of the stable. 

Connected with this apartment is a bell, which sounds in an adjacent 
cottage, where the grooms reside. Should assistance be required, the 
bell, being gently touched once, intimates that the help of one groom is 
necessary. A violent ring indicates the need of all haste. Two sounds 
announce that two grooms are wanted. Thus the number of men is 
always told by the number of sounds ; and the occasion for quickness 
is suggested by the violence with which the wire is moved. A number 
of loud sounds, rapidly succeeding one another, is a signal to come 
immediately, and to bring such extra assistance as can be readily pro- 
cured. 

Another advantage is secured by a man being awake, and upon the 
premises. The present necessity for cramming the entire quantity of 
food down the animal by a particular hour is thereby avoided. The 
natural habits of the horse can be attended to, the animal not being left 
twelve long hours alone and without employment. The five feeds might 
be better distributed if given at six in the morning, twelve in the day, 
five in the afternoon, ten at night, and two o'clock on the following 
morning. If this plan of feeding were tried and the fodder properly 
prepared before being placed in the manger, the animal would enjoy its 
provision more, and fewer complaints would be heard about the fasti- 
dious appetite of a creature whose natural propensities are, by present 
customs, openly violated. 




liSnSiBEiiBaniiniiraimiiiiii!^^ 

THE ELEVATION OF THE EASTERN SIDE OP THE CONTEMPLATED STABLE. 



The night watcher of a stable has more serious duties to perform 
than most people associate with a comfortable, although a humble 
room. The groom, having finished the day's work, ascends to the 
apartment, and remains there until his fellows return on the following 
morning, or unless some business occasions him to quit it. There are 
light, fire, table, chair, couch, and rugs provided. The man is not for- 
bidden to sleep ; but while he rests, the window which overlooks the 



326 STABLES AS THEY SHOULD BE. 

stable should remain open, so that any noise within the boxes may dis- 
turb his repose. The watcher is expected to wear his clothes through 
the night, so that should an accident, at any time, require his aid, he 
may always be prepared to afford assistance ; or should any horse be 
returned, after the other grooms have left for the night, he may be ready 
to receive, to dress, and to feed the animal. 

The architectural designs which embellish this part were drawn by 
the author's brother, Mr, Julius Mayhew, who, under the inventor's 
direction, will be happy to employ his talent in erecting the supposed 
stable for any gentleman intending to follow out the plans which have 
been exhibited. 



CHAPTER X. 

GROOMS — THEIR PREJUDICES, THEIR INJURIES, AND THEIR DUTIES. 

Grooms, if generally the most loose of servants, are, by the middle 
classes, morally subjected to the worst treatment of all the domestics. 
In the larger number of the purely "genteeV^ families, they occupy an 
intermediate and an uncertain position. Few of them live in the house ; 
but all of this order have household duties to perform. Yery many 
have to clean the family boots ; to rub up the mahogany ; to polish the 
plate ; to wait at table ; and to fill those multifarious offices which every 
woman is certain no female ought to discharge "while there is a great 
hulking fellow on the establishment." 

The author does not altogether dissent from the somewhat coarse con- 
viction just recorded. Where a single conveyance and one horse are 
kept, folly alone could pretend that these can, or should, occupy the 
entire services of a male retainer. It is far from unreasonable to im- 
pose other duties upon the man : only the horse and the stable should 
be allowed to have the foremost claim upon the groom's attention. 
Whereas, at the present time, the animal is made secondary by the 
authority of the mistress ; its attendant is too often so crippled with 
multifarious employments that it is at chance times only an opportunity 
is found to discharge the obligations of the domestic's nominal office. 

In suburban villas, where only one man is kept, the groom often is 
expected, over and above the foregoing list of duties, to keep a garden 
in order. To be sure, the vast majority of genteel grooms understand 
quite as much about horticulture as they really comprehend concerning 
horses. If asked for their qualifications with respect to the latter, they 
assume a look half insolent and half indignant before answering, " They 
have lived 'mong osses all their lifes." The author was born in a house, 
and he has lived among houses till his hair is white, and age has more 
than began to tell upon his activity ; but he does not, therefore, esteem 
himself qualified to comprehend all about those structures. 

Still the suburban groom can dig in manure ; can dibble holes into soft 
ground, and can drop seeds therein ; can stick peas, and can top beans ; 

(327) 



328 GROOMS. 

can tie up flowers, and can gather in fruit ; so, to the height of his mis- 
tress's requirements, he is better than a person of loftier qualifications. 
If any garden produce should thrive, it is hailed as the evidence of 
Thomas's ability ; should aught totally fail, the loss is attributed to the 
influence of the season. Thus credited for the good and shielded from 
the bad, it is scarcely cause for wonder should Thomas increase in fame, 
or soon grow to regard himself as perfection in the gardening capacity. 

To recompense for the extra toil of servitude, the country groom 
takes his place at the kitchen table, and is thereby saved from many 
temptations to which the London outdoor domestic is necessarily ex- 
posed. He can occupy a chair before the kitchen fire when the day 
and the day's work has ended. In such places there is never any lack 
of conversation, while the conduct of master, of missus, and of the 
family is open to criticism. But the town groom knows nothing of such 
enjoyments ; he may leave his horse, during the day, for the performance 
of domestic duties, but, after dark, it is essential to his master's peace of 
mind that the man should be thought located in the stable. 

Within the last-named place he has a solitary room allotted him, 
which lies immediately under the slates and directly over the coach- 
house. If he has a family, his wife and children have to share the one 
small apartment, within which has to be performed the sleeping, the 
cooking, the eating, and the washing of the home clothes, to which, very 
frequently, is added the soiled linen of some patronizing neighbor. 
Within such a spacious residence, devoted to so many and to such oppo- 
site uses, a human being is expected to live and to thrive ; to be healthy 
and to regard the place as his haven of domestic felicity. 

Scientific investigation, however, has demonstrated that a London 
mews affords the most unwholesome abiding-place which is to be found 
within the limits of the metropolis. With only slates above to ward off 
the summer's parching heat, or to keep out the winter's biting frost ; 
with the huge lungs below constantly vitiating the atmosphere of the 
place, it is no reason for surprise if the woman soon becomes a quarrel- 
some hag; if the children grow "fractious" imps; while the man learns 
to shun his home, and to practice arts which are needed to supply his 
extravagances elsewhere. 

Undermine the bodily health, and assuredly the moral principle has a 
tendency to give way. Squalor is not friendly to the maintenance of 
probity. This fact is illustrated by nations as well as exemplified among 
individuals. The most necessitous are, as a tribe, always the most dis- 
honest; but healthy poverty does not always indicate the keenest 
craving. The millionaire may be more greedy than the pauper. Yet 
when want arises from a loss of health, the desires generally increape as 



GROOMS. 329 

the powers of enjoyment diminish. The sicklier the neighbovhood, the 
more criminal are its inhabitants. Among a people emaciated by dis- 
ease, the exemplification of virtue is an exception, as witness the fearful 
Bins which invariably accompany the visitation of devastating epidemics. 

When in town, the one groom's duties necessitate he should be up 
before the family have opened their eyes ; his functions are nearly dis- 
charged when master's dinner table has been cleared. The morning he 
is supposed to occupy by attending to the horse. The evening he is 
imagined to pass in the bosom of his family, or, if single, in solitude ; 
but always in his home over the stable. Before his employer's break- 
fast, and subsequently to the "Guv'nor's" evening repast, the man is, 
by an amiable fiction, conjectured to be laudably engaged ; although, at 
such times, a sickly being and a disordered mind is freed from the re- 
straint of a,uthority. 

The homes of too many London stable-men are such abodes as no life 
should reside in. The place may be crowded with the elements of hap- 
piness: in it may exist wife and children; but to it can be attached none 
of those characteristics which should hallow domesticity. A noxious 
vapor at all times prevails; this undermines the health, and gradually 
saps the soul's integrity. The impurity of the atmosphere induces a 
languor which almost compels a resort to stimulants. The man's even- 
ings are his leisure hours ; but what choice is there to him between the 
blazing fire, with the cheerful society of the tap-room, and the inadequacy 
of accommodation or the " fractiousness " of debility, that are the chief 
attractions of the room which is over the stable ? 

A genteel groom's wages range from one pound one to one pound ten 
shillings per week, together with outside clothes and an unwholesome 
lodging. The better class give the higher sum ; but the vast majority 
of London grooms do not receive much more than the first amount. 
How, then, on so small a wage, can the men afford to visit so frequently 
the bar round the corner? In the first place, job masters, or men who 
let out carriage horses, retain persons whose duty it is to call round at 
the stable and see how the creatures are progressing. These men spend 
large sums in "treating" grooms; where an animal of a known delicate 
constitution is placed, their calls are proportionately numerous, and their 
"tips" are uniformly liberal. 

A tradesman cannot look into a stable without inviting the presiding 
ruler of the place to take a "parting cup." There is no class of mascu- 
line servants who levy "black mail "so universally and so unmercifully 
as they of the London mews. The groom, therefore, does not pay for 
half of the much he swallows ; and to liquidate his disbursements, he 
collects an ample revenue. Five per cent., over and above the perpetual 



330 GROOMS. 

"treats" and gratuities, is the general tax on all tlie bills which his 
master pays. 

Of the oats, many grooms claim a partner's share. On the services, 
all exert the larger right. Nay, even fashion, perverse and capricious to 
other people, seems to pander to the wishes of the stable. The animal 
delights in a flowing mane and tail, which not only beautify the creat- 
ure, but serve to guide the motions, to fan the body, and to flap away 
the insects. The groom, however, regards the long horse hair as his 
property, and, to aid his views, there exists an instrument the use of 
which is to extract the equine adornment without exciting suspicion. 
Few gentlemen's horses appear with the mane or the tail in a natural 
condition, and genteel prejudice sneers at the profusion on which tribute 
has not been levied. Thus, while the quadruped lives, it breathes to 
enrich him who is engaged to tend the animal. 

Nothing can enter the door on which an acknowledgment is not 
demanded, while nothing can leave the premises which is not regarded 
as the groom's lawful perquisite. The first maxim commences with the 
newly -purchased animal; the last terminated with the carcass which 
was drawn out of the stable. 

For the servant's shortcoming, however, the master is to blame. It 
is neither morally right nor socially just to debase a man by exposing 
him, for the sake of convenience, to the certainty of enervation, while 
you place him in a situation of trust and of authority. Perhaps few of 
human kind are fitted to uprightly support the double responsibility, 
but, certainly, he commits a sin who invests another with such powers 
and then turns poor frailty into an exhausting atmosphere, removed from 
the possibility of supervision, and exposed to those temptations, while 
the employer's act has deprived his menial of the energy requisite for 
successful resistance. 

The groom, for the convenience of the master, is forced to stand where 
man is not fit to be placed. He is despotic over the lives which cannot 
complain; he is the occupant of a home which is incompatible with 
health; he has property at his command, which it is impossible to 
check; with much idle time, he is surrounded by the examples and by 
the temptations of vice. His wages, however, are barely sufficient for 
the most rigid economy. The money he receives is certainly not fitted 
to satisfy the demands of the smallest extravagance. What justification 
can be urged in behalf of that educated gentleman who bribes an uned- 
ucated dependent to occupy so corruptive a position ? 

From the disinclination of employers to adequately discharge their 
duties, assuredly spring the many vices which beset the majority of 
London stables. In the country, where things are managed with less 



GROOMS. 331 

of systematic formality, and where the groom lives with the servants of 
the family, the same corruptions do not prevail. Tradesmen, away 
from the metropolis, give Christmas-boxes ; they likewise occasionally 
"treat" and "tip," but the custom has not degenerated into a tax, 
neither is the ruler of the stable paid five per cent, on the master's bills , 
nor is the man thus bribed to promote that extravagance which is detri- 
mental to the interest he has engaged himself to serve. 

These things cannot be amended with the present race of grooms. 
They are corrupt beyond all hope of reformation. With new material, 
a new system must be established. The servant should be accommo- 
dated with a wholesome home. Such might be cheaply built, but it 
ought not to be crowded into a corner of the horse's dwelling. It should 
be distinct from the stables, and ought to possess two windows, from 
which the horses might be overlooked. One should open from the 
sitting-room, the other from the sleeping-chamber. The wages at 
present paid may be ample for one man's food, but no money can satisfy 
the unhealthy gnawing generated by a contaminated domicile. To 
permit a human being to marry, when his earnings will not support 
a family; then to thrust wife and children into one small room, the air 
of which is vitiated, naturally leads to the want of integrity, which, 
properly regarded, is in its effects no more than the consequences of 
injustice rebounding to strike the wrong-doer. 

Against the proposal to erect distinct apartments will certainly be 
urged the expense which must be necessitated by such a measure. But 
when the year's accounts are settled, it might be found less costly to 
liquidate all needful charges than to feed the continual drain which the 
present custom creates. However, the wealthy have no right to urge 
their parsimony when the health of an inferior should be the sole con- 
sideration; but it ought to be recognized as a religious obligation to 
sacrifice personal gratifications rather than to purchase our pleasures by 
the corruption of those whom Providence has permitted to exist as our 
dependents. The police, who are empowered to enforce the observance 
of certain decencies in the lodging-houses of the poor, should also be 
authorized to watch, that the regulations necessary to the conservancy 
of health and life are not violated to propitiate the parsimony of the 
wealthy. 

The last word of the foregoing sentence is employed to denote that 
species of possession which should appertain to all of those who, accord- 
ing to the well-known definition of the witness on Thurtell's trial, merit 
the term of "respectable." To those establishments in which only one 
servant (generally without the assistance even of a stable-boy) is re- 
tained, the following remarks are chiefly directed. Where numerous 



332 



GROOMS. 



domestics are retained, over whom a stud groom or even a coachman 
presides, no specific rules are required to be laid down. 

The larger stables are, for the most part, variously but admirably 
ordered. These sin only inasmuch as he who governs shares the igno- 
rance which pervades all modern society. But the animal suffers from 
other causes in the simply genteel establishment. Two grooms can 
better attend even to six horses than one man can do all which a single 
quadruped requires. For instance: how can any domestic lead the 
creature to exercise, and, while he is thus employed, also freshen up the 
stable during the period of bis absence ? 

Every groom should be allowed a lad, for the above reason. Where 
only one animal is kept, few metropolitan stables are fit abodes for either 
man or horse. These are both retained for the labor each can perform ; 
but, to exert this labor, a healthy residence is in both cases of equal 
importance. To show the reformation which in the great majority of 
London stables is imperative, the next engraving is introduced ; and it 
is seriously recommended to the consideration of the public, not as a 
luxury or as an appendage to affluence, but as an alteration which would 
be favorable to absolute economy. 




iiiiiiiiliiiJS'''' ''^ 




A MODERN STABLE, AS IT MAT BE ADAPTED AND IMPROVED. 



The above plan supposes the entire space occupied by a Londop 
stable to be appropriated to its legitimate purpose. Within the build- 
ing no "groom's room" is crowded. The interior of the horse's apart- 
ment extends "clear up" to the roof. Such a height may, when con- 
trasted with existing places of a like description, appear enormous; but 
before that opinion can be established, those purposes to which the 
house is devoted have to be considered. 

A stable into which four inconvenient stalls were crowded may bo 
converted into a receptacle for three small loose boxes, each measuring 



GROOMS. 333 

six feet eight inches broad by sixteen feet deep. The divisions are 
similar to those alluded to in the previous chapter; but the first two 
boxes must be passed through before the third can be reached. There 
is no gangway, and the door opens into the first compartment, through 
one box being the only passage to the others. This is inconvenient; 
for it necessitates that when a quadruped has to be taken out, all the 
horses between it and the entrance should be previously haltered and 
fastened up to the farthest side, or to where the manger was originally 
erected. 

The hay-loft, instead of being directly over the horses, is separated 
from the animals by a stout wall. This arrangement obliges that the 
provender should be fetched as it is wanted ; but it also provides that 
the food shall not be contaminated before it is offered to the quadrupeds. 
The vehicle is likewise removed from the possibility of soil; and the 
coach-house contains a stove, of the kind called "slow-consuming." 
Connected with this fire is a boiler, from which hot water pipes diverge. 
Above the coach-house, the space is divided into hay-loft, etc. 

The annual cost of a coach-house and stable in the best parts of Lon- 
don is thirty pounds. A house of the proposed dimensions, where the 
rent is highest, would necessitate an annual outlay of fifteen pounds 
extra. Such an amount might be easily saved from the present expendi- 
ture,,while the horses would be better lodged, and last the longer; the 
carriage would be better housed, and not require renovation so fre- 
quently ; the food would be kept sweeter, and not be as often wasted as 
eaten; the servant would possess a healthy home; while the master 
could not but gain, by the better strength and amended feelings of his 
dependents. 

But before such changes can be witnessed, gentlemen must have re- 
leased their minds from the fetters of fashionable custom. The prevail- 
ing folly, which insists that every groom shall be a stunted affectation, 
is a stain upon the boasted enlightenment of the present period. It is 
true, a light weight is essential in a jockey ; but men of station should 
be above aping those necessities which the trainer laments being obliged 
to obey. 

To ride, is the last qualification required in most grooms, and it is one 
which few of the existing deformities can properly perform. The horses, 
when exercised, should not be mounted, but should be led ; and height 
is an advantage when this is being performed. The animals are like- 
wise more readily dressed by a tall man ; for many a quadruped is ren- 
dered restive by the mingled fuss and spite vented on their charges by 
the modern diminutives. 

There is, however, one groom, whose weight should not much exceed 



S34 GROOMS. 

eleven stone. This is the pad groom, whose peculiar duty it is to ride 
after his master or mistress, when either indulge in equestrian exercise. 
The man, being a personal servant, should be active and attentive. 
When on the road, he should follow his employer at such a distance as 
will prevent him from overhearing conversation, and will render it im- 
possible for the horse he is riding to challenge or to excite the animal 
on which his superior is mounted. At the same time, he should be suffi- 
ciently close to observe the slightest action of his employer; and, so 
soon as his master shall stop, he ought to appear on the off side, ready 
to hold the rein while the gentleman dismounts. 

The nag is, however, at the present time more the property of the 
servant than of the proprietor. It is more ridden by other persons than 
by its nominal master. The groom rides to exercise ; the smith rides from 
the forge. When a message is sent, the servant never walks ; if a parcel 
has to be fetched or left, the man always carries it upon another's back 
than his own. In short, the steed has to work whenever the hired 
domestic is employed beyond the walls of the mansion. 

Now, to work the master's horses is no part of his duties who is en- 
gaged to attend upon the inhabitants of his master's stables. It may 
be more pleasant to ride ; but which, does he imagine, would prove most 
advantageous to the animals? To him whose province it is to "look 
after " the quadrupeds, their welfare ought to be more studied than his 
personal convenience. There is an accepted maxim about "serving two 
masters;" but this is that which all horses have to do; and very often 
the tyrant of the mews is far more exacting than the ruler of the man- 
sion. People, before they complain of the expense attendant upon keep- 
ing a small stud, should ponder over the foregoing facts ; for where two 
duties have to be simultaneously discharged, we may anticipate that 
health will occasionally fail, and " accidents " will frequently occur. 

Gentlemen are not safe, if they mount horses which have not received 
the morning's exercise. Grooms are seldom to be absolutely depended 
on for the invariable discharge of early duties. Hence arise the majority 
of those terrible misfortunes which condemn wide circles to adopt sad- 
colored garments. When the master is thrown, the servant's neglect is 
too frequently the cause of the supposed "accident." Therefore, where 
saddles are much employed, the stable attendant should never be free 
from all supervision during the performance of his essential duties. 

After long confinement within a tainted atmosphere, the pure air 
seems to intoxicate the inhabitants of the stable. People, subsequent to 
severe sickness, generally suffer when first leaving the house. But a 
human chamber is kept ventilated, and the patient commonly sits near 
an open window before venturing abroad. The equine apartment is 



GROOMS. 335 

always foul, and during the night it generally reeks with impurity. The 
food and the drink of the animal are simple in the extreme. Its limbs, 
while in the stall, aro* motionless. No wonder, therefore, if sudden ac- 
tion and the inhalation of untainted atmosphere act in a strange manner 
upon a sensitive and delicately-organized body. The creature's senses 
are not to be measured by human perceptions ; neither are its acts to be 
accounted for by appeahng to the conduct of its master. We must 
reason temperately, and accept the mute behavior as strongest evidence. 
Then, all horsemen must have remarked the excited caperings which 
signalize the first release of the horse from its unwholesome abode. 
During such a time the saddle cannot be a desirable seat ; neither can 
we assert how soon the quadruped is free from its excitement, nor what 
circumstances may induce a renewal of the extraordinary exhibition. 

The next thing to be desired is, that those persons who do not employ 
a stud groom should find some one to represent this important func- 
tionary. Where groom and coachman are kept, it is easy to invest the 
coachman with authority ; for the servant is always a severe task-master 
to his fellow. When groom and coachman are united, the proprietor 
should pay more than visits of ceremony, at regular periods, to his 
stables. 

Grooms, however, dislike to be overlooked. They constantly assert a 
stable is "no place for a gentleman;" and aping outward respect, they 
manage to render this opinion influential. When the proprietor appears 
in the stable, all work ceases. The groom stiffens with the most rigid 
propriety. Under a pretense of duty, he dogs his employer's steps. 
He answers in monosyllables, and in a low voice. The face grows un- 
pleasant in the blankness of its expression. He will not talk ; he will 
not work ; he will only watch his master, with an air partly of offense, 
partly of mystery. The gentleman soon grows uncomfortable ; and there 
is small cause for surprise should the proprietor, having been thus 
treated, be in no hurry to repeat the visit. 

The stable is then relinquished entirely to the servant. There, the 
man fears no eye observing his actions ; and he knows there is no tongue 
to report his behavior. Before an uneducated individual is thus left in 
unchecked authority, it were well to think if his surroundings are of a 
character which neither passion nor malice could convert into instruments 
of danger. 

The attention should be seriously given to the banishment of steel 
from every tool employed about the horses. Those who are not in the 
secrets of such matters cannot imagine how many injuries, which are 
reported and accepted as " accidents," are really wounds willfully inflicted 
during moments of irritation. 



336 



GROOMS. 



An instant's reflection will, however, convince the least credulous 
reader of the feasibility of the above assertion. Stable-men usually- 
pass their evenings at an adjacent public liouse. After a night's en- 
deavor to sleep in a foul atmosphere, their duties oblige them to be early 
risers. They enter the stable, having their stomach upset; with their 
temper consequently unhinged, and in no mood to attend upon the wants 
of an unsympathetic animal. At such moments the iron tools must be 
employed, and the lightest of these things can inflict the most terrible 
injuries. The stable fork is commonly spoken of as a dangerous weapon. 
The man may be removing the bed with this implement, when he mut- 
ters, "kim ovare." The horse does not hear or does not understand the 
command. The order is shouted out in the topmost key of an angry 
voice. Fear incapacitates the quadruped for obedience. The arm is 
raised before the creature has recovered ; and a blow from a pitchfork will 
leave a fearful mark behind. 




'KIM OTABB." 



To avoid such "accidents," banish the use of metal from within the 
stable. All requisite implements can be made of horn or of hard wood. 



GROOMS. 33T 

To scrape the perspiration off the body of a horse, a slip of whalebone 
will leave nothing to be desired; to toss up or to carry away thirty-six 
pounds of loose straw, toiigh wood may answer as well as iron. The 
curry-comb will scrape enough, if composed of horn ; although, save in 
exceptional cases, and under veterinary advice, such an implement of 
torture is better abolished, for it generates the scurf which its constant 
use is thought to remove. The man can work longer and accomplish 
more with a hair cloth, a brush, and a whisk. Should the skin appear 
dry or scurfy, forbear to irritate it with the curry-comb. Moisten it the 
night before with the following preparation; on the ensuing morning 
dress the animal with the utmost gentleness. 

Preparation for a scurfy shin. 

Animal glycerin One part. 

Rose-water Two parts. 

Mix. 

A small teacupful of the above should be sufficient to moisten the 
entire body of a horse ; for the skin, not the hair, requires merely to be 
lightly damped with a small bit of sponge. To execute this properly 
occupies considerable time ; it cannot be quickly perfonned. But if this 
is done occasionally, the integument will continue soft ; for the effect of 
glycerin, as a wash for the skin, cannot possibly be too much confided 
in. Should the smell of the animal glycerin prove offensive, the prop- 
erty may be overcome by adding to the mixture a sufficiency of any 
cheap essential oil. To harness horses, however, animal glycerin is not 
so powerful as to necessitate any corrective. 

A further benefit will be secured by the banishment of the curry-comb. 
Those noisy and unseemly contests, which are provoked every morning, 
will no longer startle a quiet neighborhood. The shouts of "stand still," 
and the blows with which these orders were accompanied, will cease to 
be heard ; for the writhing which elicited both will terminate when the 
curry-comb has been abolished. Grooms, by the gentler behavior of 
their charges, may be tutored to abandon those very emphatic expletives 
that sound oddly when addressed to the animal, which is the most 
patient and the most obedient of all creation. Mild words commonly 
accompany gentle actions; under better regulations, man and horse may 
learn ultimately to cherish for each other those emotions natural to two 
living beings that are thrown so much into each other's society. 

Tying the horse's head high up to a wall — putting on the necklace — 
using the muzzle, or employing the arm-strap — are but artifices which 
enable a groom to employ a needless instrument with unnecessary se 

22 



338 GROOMS. 

verity. Animals with tender hides suffer so acutely under this aflfliction, 
that lamentable consequences have been caused by that desperation 
which the torture has induced. It is better to adopt gentler means, 
when these are more certain and more effectual than any restraints can 
possibly be rendered, while the curry-comb is retained. 

Having so far changed the habits of the stable as to prevent the 
groom from riding on all occasions — having brought the man to believe 
that, where strength is not required, articles made of wood or of horn 
are as useful as tools manufactured out of iron — having convinced him 
of the folly exemplified by the employment of such very energetic lan- 
guage to an animal, — there yet remains something more to be accom- 
plished. Small respect is evinced by sullen demeanor. The man, having 
acknowledged the entrance of his master, should proceed with his ordi- 
nary work, until the voice of his employer calls his attention from it, or 
desires his presence elsewhere. This the domestic ought to comprehend 
and to acknowledge before he is required to exemplify it by his actions. 
The servant must be also taught to remove pails, cloths, or instruments 
from the stable the instant such articles are no longer employed. Thus 
those unsightly objects, as stopping-box, dirty rags, soiled bottles, forks, 
brooms, sticks, etc., which now usually litter such places, would be 
totally banished into obscurity. 

These things should never be suffered to remain after they are no 
longer needed. Grooms often acquire a habit of striking their charges ; 
this practice is likely to be encouraged by the means of chastisement 
being always ready to the hand. Insist that the interior be kept in- 
variably clear; that all tools are brought into the stable as required, 
and are carried thence when no longer employed. Jars, bottles, etc. 
should never be allowed to accumulate, under a pretense that such 
refuse may prove useful on some future occasion, or may hereafter be 
sold as a legitimate perquisite. Forbid the insertion of nails or hooks 
into the walls ; for such projections have occasioned fearful rents in a 
horse's body; and so have the sharp edges formed by the building, 
whether these are of brick, of wood, or of iron : all should be very 
carefully rounded, for this last precaution being unheeded has induced 
lamentable injuries. 

In a properly-regulated stable, water should be abundant, and ought 
to be freely employed. Grooms dislike this. At present, even books 
are written which, as an innovation upon confirmed habits, seriously 
propose that the flooring of stalls should be washed once a week. The 
author recommends that the loose boxes should be thoroughly flooded 
every morning, and that, while this is done, they also should be well 
scrubbed with a stiff birch broom. The pavement ought to look clean, 



GROOMS. 339 

and the stable should be perfectly free from any taint. Many ignorant 
or idle persons assert dirt to be preservative of health ; but if the reader 
will experiment with a little cleanliness, he may afterward be trusted to 
decide upon the merit of the opposite extreme. While the grooms are 
walking the horses the stable-boys can cleanse the boxes, and these 
places being warmed during winter, there is no peril to be anticipated 
from excess of moisture, though inconvenience may be experienced in 
consequence of its deficiency. 

The stable thus regulated is not only a safer, but it is a more health- 
ful abode for horses. Another advantage is gained by keeping the 
building perfectly vacant — no excuse is then ever ready to justify the 
intrusion of idlers. When groom and horses reside under one roof, 
such an order cannot be insisted upon ; but when each has a distinct 
home, the man's visitors evidently have no business within the master's 
offices. Vulgar people are apt to become excited by the presence of 
numbers, and to illustrate their dexterity upon the quadrupeds, which 
cannot comprehend that action to be intended for play, when their part 
in the amusement generally calls on the creatures to endure. Moreover, 
grooms are fond of dogs ; some of their pets are remarkable for ferocity. 
Nor does the educated savagery of the canine species form the only 
objection to their presence ; these animals have a tendency to exhibit a 
fearful disease, to inoculation from which the horse is very susceptible. 

Cleanliness, quietude, and regularity should prevail in every stable. 
Where one horse alone is kept, the groom should be placed over a lad ; 
for a stable cannot be well managed by one pair of hands. The door 
of the building should be unlocked punctually at six o'clock. The horse 
should be inspected, to see that no mishap has occurred during the night ; 
after which the animal, at present, receives the earliest feed of corn, mixed 
with two pounds of clover hay cut into chaff, the whole having been 
steamed or macerated. While this is being consumed, the night clothes 
should be removed ; the unsoiled straw divided from the soiled bedding ; 
the clothes should be spread out to become perfectly dry ; the exposed 
body of the animal should be again thoroughly inspected; stopping 
(when used) taken from the feet ; the water renewed ; the feet looked 
to; the clinches of the nails, which fasten on the shoes, should be felt; 
the unsoiled bed heaped into one corner of the box ; the day clothes put 
on ; and those things generally attended to which are required to give 
the place a smart appearance. 

Seven o^clock. — The day clothes are either allowed to remain, are 
changed for lighter sheets, or are entirely removed, according to the 
weather : the horse is bridled, and the animal is led forth to one hour's 
exercise ; the helper or the stable-boy throws every outlet open ; puts 



340 GROOMS. 

the beddinj^ out to dry, if requisite ; washes the pavement ; sluices the 
drains ; cleans the manger ; allows a full stream of water to flow through 
the troughs; getting the building sweet and ready by the expiration of 
the hour. 

This morning exercise is, in London, often neglected ; but it should 
always be strictly insisted on. Perhaps it were better, were the animals 
at once conducted from the place in which they slept and led through 
the air upon the first opening of the doors : after which they could return 
to sweetened apartments, with bodies refreshed and appetites stimulated 
by the morning breeze. Moreover, it is better to divide the exercise and 
the work by as long a period as possible ; and the food must be more 
nutritive and wholesome when eaten in a clean apartment, than when 
devoured in a chamber reeking with the fumes of twelve hours' imprison- 
ment. No fear need be felt concerning the delay, as the exercise is no 
more to the horse than is the early walk before breakfast, in which so 
many gentlemen indulge with advantage to their constitutions. During 
winter, however, the morning exercise is often delayed ; and then is sel- 
dom given. The only legitimate excuse for the absence of such a neces- 
sity to health, is the presence of a severe frost. Otherwise, winter and 
summer, the early walk should never be neglected. 

Eight o^clock. — The horse is brought in, and, being stripped, the 
grooming commences before the body cools. This is performed outside 
in very warm weather, but within the stable when the day is either 
cold or wet. Hair cloth, dandy and water-brush; hay wisp, sponge 
and comb, are only employed in this operation. The hair cloth is used, 
save in cases of absolute necessity, instead of a curry-comb : the other 
things are employed after the manner in which grooms are accustomed 
to use them. 

The groom should always cleanse the body in the line of the hair. 
To ruffle this, causes annoyance to the animal, and interferes with the 
beauty of its appearance. The daily renovation ought to commence 
with the head. On this part more time and patience should be lavished 
than is usually bestowed. The groom is not perfect in his duty until 
his office affords pleasure to the creature on which he operates. The 
ears are smoothed and made glossy with the hand. Then the fore quar- 
ters are dressed; afterward the animal is turned round, and the other 
parts are attended to ; but one agent is always fully used before the next 
is introduced. The openings having been sponged and the long hair 
combed, the toilet is then finished. This being done, the groom sees 
about his harness, etc., till nine o'clock. 

To ascertain whether an animal has been properly groomed, inspect 
the roots of the mane. Should scurf appear, set the servant to remove 



GROOMS. 341 

it. Also finger the body, which should communicate no thick and 
greasy soil to the hand. Grooms will assert it is impossible to prevent 
these efifects ; but if their labor cannot clear the coat, they must be eithe^' 
very ignorant or very idle. It is useless to dispute with an inferior. 
Tell him you insist upon your desires being accomplished, and you will 
only retain the man who can effect it. 

Nine o'clock. — The horse receives another feed, consisting of two and 
a half pounds of soaked peas or of soaked tares, one quart of soaked 
and crushed barley, with three pounds of clover hay cut into chaflf, and 
also steeped : all soil is removed from the boxes ; the gi'oom then returns 
to finish his harness. Every piece is unbuckled and cleaned separately, 
and all metal articles polished, after the leather has been overlooked and 
renovated. 

Ten o^clock. — The man goes to the house for the day's orders : these 
obtained, he returns to the stable ; he finishes the harness and he cleans 
the carriage. The cushions should be removed and daily aired : in hot 
weather, in the sun ; in wet or during cold seasons, at the fire. This is 
done before the vehicle itself is attended to. 

Twelve o^clock. — The horse has another feed, composed of half a 
gallon of crushed and macerated oats, with two pounds of properly-pre- 
pared pea or bean chaff. 

Two o^clock. — The horse, when not required by the master or mis- 
tress, is led out for two hours' exercise. When its services are needed, 
the eyes, nostrils, etc. are sponged over ; the mane and tail combed out; 
the coat is dried and smoothed ; the exterior of the hoofs sliglitly gly- 
cerined ; the feet and shoes specially noticed ; then the saddle or harness 
is put on, and the animal is walked, not hurried, round to the front 
door. If the quadruped's services are not required, the last directions 
are unheeded. 

Four or five o^clock. — When the horse returns, either from abroad or 
from exercise, the bed should have been littered down, and the body 
should be slightly dressed ; the night clothes should be ready ; the animal 
is fed with four pounds of Egyptian beans, soaked and mingled with 
half a peck of upland hay chaflf. When the horse is out late, the groom 
and the stable-boy should be up to receive it. Further instructions will, 
hereafter, be given concerning the treatment of the animal's possible 
condition when it is brought home at unseasonable hours. 

At dusk. — A small light is ignited, and placed in a lantern. 

At ten o^clock. — The horse receives the last meal, which consists of 
the same ingredients as the twelve o'clock feed. 

In the foregoing directions, only those things have been mentioned 
which require to be executed with regularity. Many snaall acts are, of 



342 GROOMS. 

course, not named. These are done between the more important duties. 
But, as a general division of the labor, a good groom should always 
mate the horse the primary consideration. Thus, the fore part of the 
day is entirely spent upon the quadruped, upon the harness, and upon 
the vehicle; while the afternoon (where such an arrangement be pos- 
sible) is devoted to the employer or to the stable, and to those small 
matters which always demand attention. 

A better division of the feeding is, to withhold the nine o'clock por- 
tion, and to give it at two o'clock in the early morning ; for as the horse 
delights in comparative darkness, and is by nature formed to be hungry 
and active after sunset, man certainly would gain by following the plan 
which best accords with the animal's instinct. Thus horses, being ob- 
served when in the field, will invariably be seen either resting or sleeping 
during the hot hours of the afternoon. The cool of the evening, conse- 
quently, would be a better time for enforcing exercise than the period 
when, according to existing customs, it is generally administered. In 
private establishments, however, many of the latter proposals would be 
attended with inconvenience ; but the author can imagine no household 
in which the ten o'clock feed and the evening exercise might not be 
undertaken, and, in several public companies, everything here suggested 
could be accomplished. The morning's exercise should likewise be given 
before the day becomes hot or the light is fully confirmed. Then the 
quadruped is braced by the spirit of the hour, not rendered miserable by 
the heat and annoyed by the stings of innumerable insects. 

The only peculiarity in the above regulations consists in the length of 
time over which the feeding and the exercising are distributed. The 
ordinary day of most stables lasts only eleven or twelve hours. The 
author makes the period to extend over sixteen hours; His reasons for 
so doing are twofold : in the first place, the horse is by nature formed 
to enjoy the night much more than it is made capable of roaming during 
the day ; in the second place, the author never dissected the carcass of 
an aged animal without finding the capacity of the stomach morbidly 
enlarged, and the walls of the viscus rendered dangerously thin by re- 
peated distention. The manner in which the small digestive bag of the 
quadruped must be overloaded, by the usual plan of cramming five full 
meals into twelve hours, accounts for the latter characteristic, and also 
explains why indigestion should rank among the most fearful and the 
commonest malady which attends upon domestication. 

The curry-comb is abolished ; but the generality of grooms also re- 
quire to be cautioned concerning the use of the wisp and the brush. 
The first article is generally brought down upon the sides with a succes- 
sion of heavy blows. Now, beating is not cleaning; neither is one act 



GROOMS. 343 

necessary to the proper performance of the other. The brush is often 
applied so quickly and sharply as to cause the animal to shrink. The 
groom would not admire being himself di^ssed according to such a 
method. The hair cloth should be used to remove impurities ; the 
brush is employed to expel loose particles, and to smooth any hair which 
the previous process may have disturbed or roughened ; the wisp is in- 
tended to polish the coat. Any violence over and above that requisite 
to fulfill such intentions, is needless cruelty, and should, when detected, 
be immediately checked. 

The more important portion of a groom's duty, however, concerns the 
treatment necessary for a wet, a tired, a dirty, or a heated horse. Most 
servants are successful in dressing an animal when the stable is entered 
in the morning, but few comprehend how to groom a steed in any of the 
conditions which have just been named ; and, of that number, fewer still 
care to stay out of their beds to cleanse the soiled coats of the creatures 
intrusted to their custody. 

Clipping and singeing are processes which all stable-men greatly ad- 
mire. However, before the grounds of their admiration are criticised, it 
may be as well to reason a little upon what appears to be a growing 
custom. British horses are deprived of the thick, warm covering which 
nature bestows only in the winter. It certainly does sound somewhat 
paradoxical, when it is stated that the English allow their quadrupeds 
to run about in full costume during the summer's heat, but take off every 
protection as wet, snow, and frost approach. Certainly, if extra cover- 
ing is requisite at any period, man, by great-coats, cloaks, mantles, over- 
shoes, respirators, boas and comforters, has declared that Christmas is 
the time for additional warm clothing. But the groom protests it is im- 
possible to keep a wintry equine garment dry ; he says that when the 
creature has been made comfortable the previous evening, the coat is 
often found to be quite wet on the following morning. 

Still, in some very cold climates, it is not unusual to wet the garments, 
for the purpose of confining the animal heat, or of preventing cuticular 
evaporation ; therefore, the moisture of the skin may be ordained with 
a benevolent design. But granting all the groom can object to wintry 
perspirations, the body which perspires is confined in a stable, and an 
impure atmosphere can occasion a faintness which shall provoke a 
copious cuticular emission. At all events, man has, in his treatment of 
the horse, made such egregious blunders that he ought to be careful how 
he presumes, in future, to differ from the ordinances of nature. 

To illustrate the eifects produced by a thick, wet covering, and by a 
thin, wet envelope, let the author narrate the result of a very simple ex- 
periment, which the reader may without much trouble institute for him- 



344 GROOMS. 

self. Obtain two bottles. Wrap one closely in several layers of calico ; 
around the other fix only a single, tightly-fitting covering of the same 
fabric. Saturate the cloths, of both bottles with water; also fill the in- 
terior of each with the same liquid. Renew the moisture to the two 
coverings as either becomes dry. After twelve hours, test the tempera- 
tures of the contents poured from either bottle. That from the thickly- 
covered (which may remain wet) vessel will be unchanged, or warmer 
for its confinement ; that contained within the thinly-protected inclosure 
(which possibly shall be quite dry) will be cold, very cold — so cold, that 
in warm climates water is thus rendered a refreshing draught. Nay, the 
hotter the medium to which the bottles have been exposed, the colder 
will be the temperature of the thinly-coated liquid. 

Now, the stable is always a heated medium. The animal with a thick 
coat is represented by the vessel with a thick incasement, the contents 
of which are not chilled by the moisture which saturates its envelope. 
The clipped steed is represented by the bottle thinly enfolded, the liquid 
within which became cold. But, it may be urged, the clipped horse is 
never moist. Then perspiration must be checked, and fever must bo 
present; for, during health, the pores of the skin are never inactive. 
Where the coat is removed, superficial perspiration, accompanied with 
constant evaporation, must always be taking place. Where the hair is 
thick, moisture naturally accumulates; because the covering prevents 
superficial evaporation, and thereby checks the operating cause of inter- 
nal frigidity. 

For the reasons explained by the above experiment, horses which 
have been clipped or singed are thereby rendered more susceptible to 
many terrible disorders. Any internal organ may be acutely attacked ; 
because the perspiration has, by exposure of the skin, been thrown back 
upon the system. Numerous hunters (which animals are always clipped) 
fail, at the beginning of the season, from this cause. Nor can the author 
comprehend the purpose served by the prevailing custom, excepting the 
propitiation of a servant's humor. It is said, the animal moves so much 
more nimbly after the long coat has been removed. This may be the 
fact, though the author has hitherto seen no such marked change follow 
the operation as will allow him to deliberately corroborate the general 
assertion. 

Moreover, let the servant, when he notices the animals for the first 
time in the morning, observe the breathing of the quadrupeds. The 
building has been closely shut for the entire night, and the impure 
atmosphere will necessarily excite the respiration. Now, it may not be 
exactly in accordance with the groom's notions, but scientific men have 
long known the skin and the lungs to be joined in one and tl^ same 



GROOMS. 345 

function. Then, what right has ignorance to expect one to be idle when 
the other is oppressed ? 

Perspiration only implies cuticular activity. It is a healthy action ; 
the emission of the horse is only an eifort of nature to cast off those 
impurities which man obliges his prisoner to inhale. The clipped animal 
must also perspire if it also inhabit the building, and remain free from 
disease. The skin must equally exhale, as a law of its existence ; but 
the hair being short, and the surface of the body exposed, the heated 
medium in which the creature stands may cause the moisture to evapo- 
rate as rapidly as it is emitted. Still, all this will not satisfy the stable- 
man. It is not only the wetness of the coat which he dreads, but it is 
the presence of dirt that he abominates. Long hair attracts and pro- 
tects mud, which, however, is easily removed from any substance, after 
it has been allowed to yield up its component moisture. 

Viewing the insensible perspiration as an established fact, the prevailing 
customs are not unattended with danger. The advent of the summer's 
covering is delayed, and the system seems to suffer greatly during the 
subsequent period of changing the coat. The pace flags ; the spirits fail ; 
and the quadruped becomes more susceptible to disease, at a time of 
year when equine disorders are commonly more general and more 
virulent. 

Yet, it may be urged, that in the winter season the roads are far 
dirtier, and the long coat is so much more retentive and more difficult to 
cleanse. Here again the argument returns to the groom, and to his dis- 
taste for his avocation. It is true, a long-haired heel should not be made 
clean after the usual fashion. The man should not take the horse outside 
into the night air, and should not tie its head to the stable walls. He 
should not dash a pail or two of cold water over the soiled and heated 
members ; and should not lead the horse back to its stall, retiring to bed 
with a comfortable conviction that he has done his duty. 

To fling about water necessitates little trouble, therefore it is a favorite 
practice with all stable attendants. Whether it meets with equal favor 
from the life whose heels have to sustain the deluge, no one has, hitherto, 
been weak enough to inquire. That nature intentionally clothed the 
horse's heels with long hair, to keep lowly-organized parts warm and 
free from dust, is a fact neither thought of nor cared about. The man 
specially retained to look after the quadrupeds cuts away the provision 
which was instituted by the Source of all mercy; then applies cold 
water to the organs which Wisdom saw reason to shelter, leaving the 
members to chill and chap, while he retires to his repose. 

The animal, with its dripping heels, is hastily fastened in a stall. The 
clipped legs of a horse are admirably adapted to exemplify the effects of 



zu 



GROOMS. 



evaporation That portion of the body where the circulation is most 
feeble has to endure the effects of the process which can generate cold, 
even during the extremity of the summer's heat. Cracked heels, grease, 
etc. (see "Illustrated Horse Doctor") are the immediate results; and 
the master who makes the welfare of his steed subservient to the idle 
prejudices of his groom, is fitly punished in the lengthened period of his 
animal's compulsory idleness, appropriately finished by the payment of 
a long bill to the veteriaary surgeon. 




THE USUAL METHOD OF CLEAN8IN0 A HORSE'S HEELS. 



The author seriously proposes that all horses' legs should be permitted 
to retain the adornments which were sent by the bounty of nature for 
the comfort of her creatures. The clipped or singed horse is a deformity : 
the color is unnatural: the coat is dull and stubborn, looking most 
unlike that polished surface which is native to the beautiful quadruped. 
Moreover, those who live in a temperate climate should be content to 
forego certain elegances which are natural to warmer regions : or, if 
they will have tropical loveliness, they should encourage it by those 
means which enable oranges to ripen in England, and not descend to 



GROOMS. 347 

meannesses which may expose their desires, but can deceive no one, — 
not even the most ignorant in horse flesh. 

Supposing a horse to be brought home with undipped but with soiled 
heels ; with the lower part of the abdomen covered by dirt, and the coat 
drenched with rain: — the animal is led into the stable; the bridle and 
saddle are removed ; the body is first quickly scraped ; then it is rubbed 
over with a few dry wisps ; afterward it is lightly hooded and covered 
with an ample sheet. The master, who has hastily taken ofi" his boots 
and changed so much of his clothing as was wet, now returns, bringing 
a quart of warm beer in a pudding dish, and he remains to see the quad- 
ruped drain the draught. 




OIVINO A H0RS8 i. QUART OF MALT LIQUOR. 

Horses soon learn to drink and to enjoy malt liquor. Were such 
stimulants equally at their command, certainly the animal would excel 
its superiors in habits of intoxication. The majority of quadrupeds 
may, with the first few draughts, require a little coaxing; but the pri- 
mary disinclination overcome, the craving for such an indulgence seems 
to be immoderate. An occasional stimulant is, however, very useful in 
the stable. It revives exhaustion, and restores vigor to the circulation. 
The timely administration of a quart of fermented liquor to a jaded 
steed has often prevented those evils which usually attend upon bodily 
prostration. 



348 



GROOMS. 



The drink oeing swallowed, the sheet is taken off, and the body made 
thoroughly dry with wisps and cloths. The lad again employs the 
scraper: the man with a cloth dries the eyes, channel between the 
thighs, chest and abdomen, always performing his duties with gentle- 
ness, and discarding the cloth for a hay wisp, where the hair is thick, or 
wherever the water appears to have lodged. While this is doing, the 
proprietor should comb out the tail, the forelock, and the mane; he 
should also discharge those many little offices which are not laborious, 
but which add greatly to the comfort of a tired animal. Other portions 
of this matter will be treated of in another part of the present article, — 
such portions being, the food proper subsequent to fatigue, and the right 
method of cleaning the heels. However, it may be necessary to observe 
in this place that before the quadruped is left for the night, the sheet 
should be removed, and the usual night rug put on to the body. 




CLEANSING AN EXHAUSTED HORSE. 



When a horse is brought in, covered with perspiration, it is led at 
once into the stable; master, man, and boy should join in its purifica- 
tion. The lad takes the scraper, and, beginning at the quarters, hastily 
presses out the excess of moisture ; while the groom procures a pail of 
cold and a pail of warm water. All being ready, the master not having 
left the stable, the lad brings forth a dish of diluted soap, (half a pound 
of soap whisked about till it has dissolved in one quart of water,) and, 
dipping his right hand in this preparation, he smears it all over the body. 
So fast as the youth rubs the soap into the hair, the groom washes it off, 



GROOMS. 



349 



by pouring warm water over the place. The warm water carries away 
the soap, and with it are also removed all the impurities natural to the 
soiled condition of the skin. 

After the groom comes the master, who pours upon the body, already 
washed with warm flniid, a stream of cold water from the rose of a 
watering-pot. The intention of the process may be thus explained. 
The dissolved soap and the warm water are simply used to cleanse the 
body ; having done this, the cold water is applied merely to close the 
pores of the skin, and to invigorate the system which exertion had 
debilitated. 




CLEANSING AND COOUNQ A TIRED HORSE. 



This accomplished, all hands present, after the manner already directed, 
should set to work : scraping, rubbing, combing, and using their utmost 
endeavors to dry the animal as quickly as possible. The horse is then 
lightly hooded and clothed. Where there exists a covered way, the 
animal should be run up and down the protected road six or seven times ; 
then returned to the stable. Should there be no ambulatory connected 
with the premises, the friction ought to be continued longer than other- 
wise, so that the surface of the skin may be gently warmed, and the 
circulation slightly quickened, that being all the little amount of motion 
which was ordered could accomplish. 



350 



GROOMS. 



Witb regard to the legs and feet of the animal, these parts are so 
much exposed that to them the same danger does not attend the presence 
of damp as is commonly dreaded in the human subject. The water 
with which the body has been drenched will naturally flow down the 
legs, and remove from them no inconsiderable quantity of soil. All, 
however, having been performed as directed, the groom takes up each 
hoof and cleans it thoroughly out with a picker and a hard brush. Then 
he goes upon his knees ; with several straw wisps, he removes so much 
dirt and moisture as will yield to friction. This done, he brushes over 
the outer wall of the horn with glycerin, and rolls bandages round the 
legs. 

lf|l!| V\mj 




DRYINQ THE EEELS. 



In the above illustration, the size of the horse cloth cannot otherwise 
than have appeared strange to the reader. But things as large, if not 
of a greater magnitude, should be in every stable — not for general use, 
but for special occasions. The ordinary rug merely covers the spine, 
not doing so much toward keeping warm the carcass of a horse as 
would be effected by a Guernsey jacket upon the body of a man. Yet, 
who would think of employing the last article as a sole envelope for a 
cold and fatigued traveler ? This, however, is all modern custom sanc- 
tions for the comfort of a tired and exhausted steed ! The folly of so 
inadequate a provision is apparent, and the necessity of the innovation 
suggested by the last engraving must be obvious to all who will con- 
descend to think seriously on the subject. 

While the legs are being attended to, the supper may also be before 
the horse. The meal, however, should not be of the full quantity or of 



GROOMS. 



351 



a heavy nature. The stomach sympathizes with the general exhaustion 
of the body; the digestion is too much weakened to appropriate its 
ordinary nutriment. For a steed whose feeding capabilities are not 
hearty, a little bread and salt, offered from the band of its human 
favorite, will frequently be eaten. Half of a half quartern loaf, lightly 
seasoned, commonly will be gratefully accepted, if given in the manner 
directed. Often, however, the craving is limited to liquids, all solid 
provender being refused. 

The animal should not be annoyed by any well-intentioned coaxing 
to eat, when nature commands it to abstain. The inclination of the 
quadruped should, at this time, always be respected; for a tired steed 
stands upon the borders of inflammation, and in proportion to the value 
of the quadruped invariably is the danger of an attack. Hard-worked 
horses often want the stamina which enables nature to resist the effects 
of exhaustion. The bread, if not accepted, should be immediately with- 
drawn, and a pail of well and smoothly made gruel, with which the meal 
was to have concluded, be alone presented. All other food should be 
removed, and the animal left, supperless, to its repose. 








If the gruel is rejected, take it away ; place it in a cool situation, and 
it may be swallowed with avidity on the following morning. If allowed 



S52 GROOMS. 

to remain, the animal will breathe upon it, and grow to distaste the 
nourishment. Suffer the horse to take the rest which a disinclination to 
feed will have informed you is nature's primary requirement. Only, 
order the groom once or twice to peep at the nag through the window 
which overlooks the stable. Should the creature have laid down, the 
man may retire to his bed, convinced that all his well ; but should the 
animal, upon the second inspection, be beheld standing up, no time must 
be lost. The servant ought to dress himself, to apprise his master, and 
to descend to the stable; for this attitude, being long maintained, is 
among the earliest and surest indications that disease has commenced. 

A good feeder may simply require an allowance of bruised beans and 
corn, to be well boiled in a sufficiency of water, and, before being pre- 
sented as two meals, quite cold. No hay, but a little bran or chaff 
should accompany the mess, as the desire is to nourish the system with- 
out overloading the stomach. Should, however, this potion be refused, 
it is soon converted into gruel, by stirring to it a sufficiency of water and 
placing it on the fire; afterward by pouring the liquid through a strainer, 
the husks are readily separated. It is but seldom that full feeders are 
thus far exhausted. A voracious appetite is commonly united to so 
much slothfulness of body as saves the horse from the aggravated effects 
of absolute muscular and nervous prostration. 

On the following morning — supposing no mishap to have occurred — 
when the time arrives to groom the horse, the bandages should be taken 
off, and, as each wrapper is removed, the leg ought to be dressed. Firstly, 
the member should be well rubbed with several wisps of straw. The 
more apparent dirt being removed, the part should be further cleansed 
by application of the hand. After this the hair should be combed ; then 
again ruffled with the hand — these processes being terminated by a 
thorough application of the dry water brush. This operation should be 
repeated upon each leg, no hurry being indulged in the performance of 
this operation; but water should not be applied to the heels, without 
the special leave of the proprietor having been obtained. The case 
should be very marked before such permission is accorded; for wet to 
the heel is the cause of numerous troublesome affections. 

Most grooms are convinced of the propriety of walking the horse up 
and down when the creature has returned, and perspiration has moist- 
ened the winter's coat. The author has, elsewhere, illustrated the folly 
of this practice. The body soon chills, upon a change of action ; not- 
withstanding a most conscientious individual might swear the legs have 
never ceased moving. It is better to have the horse at once brought 
into the stable ; to cleanse the skin with liquid soap and warm water ; 
and to close the open pores by the application of cold fluid ; then, with 



GROOMS. 



353 



vigorous friction, using straw wisps, to cause a reaction in the circulaf- 
tion. Only, where the author's last recommendation is adopted, the 
friction must not cease until the skin glows, which it usually will in a 
remarkably short period. 




THE GEOOM, ON HIS KKEES, TAKING OFl! THE BANDAGES AND KUBBINO THE DIRT OUT OF THE HOBSE'S LE03 

All grooms are much disposed to treat the foot of the horse as a 
mysterious organ, which none but a person reared in a stable possibly 
can comprehend. This is the result of impudence and ignorance, work- 
ing for the exaltation of selfishness. The foot is not generally under- 
stood, because people, in their folly, will insist on regarding a very 
simple member as an uncommon and a complicated structure. The 
horn being porous, insensible perspiration should escape through its 
minute openings. To prove this, let the gentleman accompany his nag 
to the farrier's, the next time the animal is shod. When the sole is 
pared, let a wineglass be held over the part, and the surface of the vessel 
will speedily be bedewed with the exuding moisture. 

Now, grooms understand nothing, and care less about the perspiratory 
property of the horn. They cannot understand how the stoppage of 
perspiration may induce serious sickness. Therefore, most of the secret 
nostrums employed to embellish and to keep healthy the horn of the 

23 



354 GROOMS. 

horse's foot contain tallow, wax, lamp-black, and various solids, which 
must clog the pores of the hoof, and, by arresting one of its functions, 
provoke disease. The best application to adorn this part is a little of 
the glycerin mixture, directions for preparing which have already been 
given. This moistens and renders pliable the hoof, which, be it black or 
white, will present a polished surface, without the pores being clogged 
up by the tenacious property of its substance. 

It is a general custom to contract with the groom, that he shall sup- 
ply the horse with cloths, brushes, etc. The sum usually given is four 
or five pounds, over and above the yearly wages. This custom is at- 
tended with two evils and with one advantage. The evils are, — should 
the man quit his situation, he commonly leaves an empty stable behind 
him; or the master has to buy a second time those things which his 
money has already purchased. The other objection being, — that grooms 
are likely to procure less than is essential, when the fewer articles they 
can make shift with puts so much money into their pockets ; thereby 
the horse is either imperfectly attended to, or the vehicle (where the 
groom has to look after one) suffers from the want of proper appliances. 
The solitary advantage which attends this kind of arrangement being, — 
that it enables the proprietor to estimate, with greater accuracy, the cost 
of his establishment. ' 

London stables are all faulty. Such places are much too small. A 
stable which is professed to contain four stalls, should be divided into two 
loose boxes ; or it might, if the stalls are of the kind which is denominated 
"roomy," be converted into three small compartments. Therefore, every 
gentleman hiring a building for this purpose, should rent one which, in 
London, is generally esteemed larger than he is supposed to require. 
The alterations are quickly made; and the proprietor may be certain 
that his outlay will bear a most liberal interest. Where valuable horses 
are concerned, rent is not a weighty consideration. 

The stable being taken and altered, order the groom to watch the eat- 
ing capacities of your horses. If he report that each feeds alike, or that 
all clear their mangers, either investigate the matter yourself, or have 
the animals observed by somebody on whose report you can better de- 
pend. It is seldom that three quadrupeds meet, having precisely equal 
capacities in any particular. The author has, seemingly, ordered one 
general quantity for all horses ; but those who serve out the provender 
should apportion the amount by the results of experience. 

There is one quality for which most London grooms are remarkable ; 
nevertheless this conspicuous characteristic appears to have, hitherto, 
escaped observation. They all display a strange union of extreme inno- 
cence and the height of knowingness. They profess to understand 



GROOMS. 355 

everything which concerns the horse. In every essential of the many 
circumstances which surround all animals, they will not quietly permit 
their knowledge to be questioned. But with regard to that particular 
sphere which it is their duty to be acquainted with, they ape an inno- 
cence which, in its excess of wonder, amounts to the possible extent ol 
impudence. 

The groom prides himself on the power of being " close ;^^ but he 
exhibits this attainment chiefly to his master, and principally at his 
employer's cost. Let anything be broken in the stable, and it only 
excites the groom's surprise. He knows nothing about it. If a horse 
is seriously injured, the man who looks after the animal hails the event 
as an "accident:" is perplexed by its occurrence, and never has the 
remotest idea how it could have happened. Should anything be miss- 
ing, the servant recognizes its absence with astonishment, and remem- 
bers to have recently seen it ; but cannot imagine where or how it has- 
departed ! 

On the other hand, his knowledge masters impossibilities. He can 
make any lame horse go sound ; he can induce prime condition in less 
than a week; he can cure glanders; he can render the most savage 
horse as tame as a lap-dog; he knows how to plan a stable; how to 
make harness look well and last long; understands carriages; and, in 
short, is a perfect proficient in everybody's business, though he never 
knew anything that immediately concerns his own immediate depart- 
ment. 

The reader will have drawn the inference from the above fact that a 
groom is never to be believed. The author laments he cannot gainsay 
such a conclusion. The master will only be misled by following his 
servant's teaching. Domestics of all descriptions are to be employed ; 
theirs is no office of instruction. Yet grooms deal largely in advice, 
and always have an opinion ready to be advanced. The gentleman will 
gain who can afford to discard such pretensions. Keep the stable-man 
entirely to his duties. Never allow him to exceed these. Never permit 
him to quit his legitimate sphere ; for, in any other province, he is the 
very dearest assistant that money could possibly procure. 

In conclusion, never permit the London groom, save at certain unem- 
ployed and stated periods, to engage in household duties. 

He speedily grows to be worthless in both occupations, when his 
labor equally concerns the home and the stable. The horse is the 
excuse, when any domestic order is not fulfilled ; the house is his justi- 
fication, whenever complaint is made that the quadruped, the vehicle, or' 
the harness exhibits evidences of neglect. This is one of the reasons 
why so many disgraceful single horse "turn outs" may be beheld 



35S 



GROOMS. 



jour/ieying through the streets of London. Sights which are melan- 
choly to contemplate, and disgraceful for any gentleman to acknowl- 
edge. 

In a previous chapter the author has described what a stable ought to 
be ; but he anticipates it will be a long time before the public shall con- 
sent to adopt the writer's notions. Most persons will not soon amend 
or speedily change the conveniences attending the present form of 
stables. However, when renting a building divided into stalls, any- 
body may command one loose box. This is readily made by placing 
two bales across the gangway, reaching from the farthest trevise, each 
bale resting against the wall of the building. Such an extemporaneous 
makeshift has been found very useful in cases of severe injury or of 
sudden disease. 




THJt MANNER IN 'WHICH THE LAST STALL OF A STABLE MAT BE READILY CONVERTED INTO 
A LOOSE BOX. 



CHAPTER XL 

HORSE DEALERS — WHO THEY ARE, THEIR MODE OP DEALING, THEIR 
PROFITS, THEIR MORALITY, AND THEIR SECRETS. 

"All horse dealers are rogues I" Such is a common behef, which too 
many persons are willing to indorse. The term "horse dealer," how- 
ever, embraces individuals of very adverse and of entirely different 
pursuits, each seeking business in opposite spheres ; one rarely meeting 
the other ; but all trading with the animal, though with a very dis- 
similar description of horse. Horse "copers" and horse "chaunters" 
assuredly buy and sell horses. So far they are entitled to be called 
"horse dealers;" but all such characters are unscrupulous rogues. 
Most liverymen, and the various people who live in a mews, or write 
"job master" after their names, dehght in "a deal," when th6y can con- 
template a speedy and a safe profit. Carters, cab proprietors, farmers, 
and the heads of all commission stables either buy or sell — or do both 
occasionally — horses. There is hardly a gentleman in Britain who, if 
buying or selling an animal could constitute a dealer in horses, might 
not wear the title. The genius which presides over an auction mart 
has always a desire to knock down, to himself, any very cheap lot; 
while the majority of blacklegs and of men about town can, generally, 
inform an inquiring friend of "the very spiciest thing," which will "be 
given away for the merest trifle." 

Of all these cheats, for all are ready to become such upon opportunity, 
the bad one, perhaps the least suspected, is no other than gentlemen 
who, over a glass of wine, will reluctantly part with a "screw" for fifty 
times the value of its carcass. The worst specimen of unmitigated im- 
position, having any pretense to fair bargaining, which the author can 
-•aU to mind, was thus palmed off upon an unsuspecting friend. The 
gentlemen looked fierce and talked loud when expostulated with, having 
strong motives for not hearkening to reason. There are always one or 
two very pleasant fellows of this stamp, riding after every pack of 
hounds. They usually are careful equestrians, very saving of their 
steeds, excepting when near to some youthful member of the hunt; 
then the rein is slackened and the spur quietly applied. But of all 

(357) 



358 



HORSE DEALERS. 



the impostors who practice with horses, the rankest and the most inde- 
fensible K the scamp who advertises "the property of a gentleman de- 
ceased." Such a "dodge," judging by the numbers who adopt it, must 
prove a paying pursuit. Yet this form of roguery has been so frequently 
exposed, and is apparently so thoroughly known, it becomes difficult to 
imagine the spell by which its daily victims are fascinated. 




A PEEP INTO A dealer's YARD. 



The horse dealers of whom the present chapter pretends to treat be- 
long to none of these parties. They shun the mews, and each possesses 
a private yard, with his name painted above it. These places are always 
scrupulously clean. The entrances are ever adorned with a sprinkling 
of fresh sand. Facing the gateway is a covered ride, invariably deeply 
littered with clean straw. On one side of this ride is a spotless wall, 
opposite to which there exists a paved space or broad roadway. On 
the farther edge of this paved space stands a sort of cottage, looking as 



HORSE DEALERS. 



359 



smart as new paint or whitewash can render it, and adorned with ali 
kinds of cockney rusticity. Here resides the master, — a person favored 
with a goodly presence, and, when waiting for customers, always clothed 
in spotless apparel, generally of a sporting character. 

This tradesman does not pretend to sell cheap horses. Most ignorant 
people, however, hunger after bargains, and out. of such desires the 
numerous dishonest traders make their market. A really cheap horse is 
not to be honestly purchased in London. Those who wish for such an 
article, should follow the example of the regular dealer; they should 
travel among the northern breeders, or they should visit the far-off fairs, 
where such people congregate. If to do this involves too much trouble, 
or necessitates too great an expense, then they should be content to pay 
those persons who, in the way of business, encounter both the fatigue 
and the cost. 




THE NIGHT BEFORE THE HOESE FAIR. 



The London visitor to a Yorkshire farm or to a country fair must not, 
however, expect that any cash will enable him to pick "the field." 
Liberal as may be his offers, there is an influence which can take prece- 
dence of money. On the farm and at the fair, the London dealers are 
expected, and generally have the earliest information when anything 
very choice is for sale. Their advent is anticipated at the several inns 
which they frequent; their arrivals are bruited about, long before deal- 



360 HORSE DEALERS. 

ing is supposed to have commenced. All breeders are anxious to sell 
to these notorieties. Private views are proffered and accepted ; sales or 
exchanges are made, and business may be very brisk, days prior to the 
fair beginning. In short, too many gentlemen visit the gathering for 
amusement. The farmer cannot by outward signs distinguish such from 
the would-be purchaser; whereas the dealer always means buying. 
This constitutes the purpose of his visit. His time and money are 
wasted, if he travels far and makes no purchase. The certainty about 
his intentions, as well as the prospect of securing a future customer, 
insures him the first offer from all who have colts for sale. 

The legitimate horse dealers are, as a body, most honorable and highly 
respectable men. They are not all profoundly educated, though there 
are among them exceptions even in this respect ; but in their business 
with mankind, no class is more undervalued ; no class is more exposed 
to annoyance ; and no class can display a finer sense of probity. There 
is, perhaps, only one failing that could be justly maintained against the 
entire body : that one may not be denied, although it is easily excused. 
They are habitual liars! In the way of trade, no horse dealer can 
speak the truth concerning any animal he may possess. All such creat- 
ures are without fault, trick, or blemish ! The whole stud are spotless 
pictures 1 Each and every one must be perfect ! 

It cannot be imagined that honest people delight in needless lies. 
The violation of a moral obligation can afford no gratification to an 
honorable mind ; but when a large body of men exemplify any one par- 
ticular failing, it may be reasonably concluded that the pressure of society 
has induced the deficiency which we, who are removed from the crowd, 
must not too severely stigmatize. The public well know that a faultless 
horse — one perfect in form and pace — which can do everything and can 
carry anything — a creature without a " vice," and free from blemish — is 
a species of sphinx, which the oldest equestrian has never looked upon. 
Yet no one ever enters a dealer's yard, except he be hunting after this 
impossible perfection. Were the willing customer met with candor; 
were the tradesman to show his stock, and truthfully to catalogue the 
defects of each, — who, to reward veracity, would purchase the confessedly 
faulty articles ? No one ! Therefore the public force the dealer in horses 
to abjure truth, when they unite and they insist he shall possess creatures 
which in this world are known to be positively unattainable 1 

Society is clearly answerable for the dealer's misstatements, since men 
will only visit him on certain terms, which declare he shall lie to live, 
or he may tell the truth and starve. His customers tacitly unite to en- 
tangle the man in a web of falsehoods ; while not one of these persons, 
even the most credulous, believes a syllable of the needless assertions t: 



HORSE DEALERS. 361 

which they listen. No one accepted a horse as sound, because the dealer 
protested it was, "as a roach." A warranty would be taken, although 
the oath of the seller should attest to perfectibility of the animal. A 
species of fiction is, consequently, employed by the class as a business 
requisite; but the habits of trade are not transplanted into the trans- 
actions of private life. The author has known tradespeople among horse 
dealers whose characters were as estimable and whose private words 
were as trustworthy as those of any gentleman whose friendship he has 
the honor to enjoy. 

All callings have certain prides or weaknesses in which the community 
at large cannot be expected to sympathize. Horse dealers are not ex- 
ceptions to this rule. The first qualification for the calling is the recog- 
nition of a good horse, — no matter where or under what circumstances 
it may be seen. With the recognition must also exist a power of cor- 
rectly fixing the selling price or the marketable value. Complex calcu- 
lation must also be instantly solved. The quadruped may be lean : then 
must be estimated the time and the money requisite to promote the sell- 
ing condition. The animal may be worn out with unsuitable employ- 
ment: then must be reckoned the sum which will train it to a more 
fitting use. The creature may be a colt, raw, and at a distance from 
the dealer's home : quick as thought, however, must be ascertained the 
probable cost of breaking and of conditioning, with the hazard, etc. at- 
tendant upon a long journey. These things must be summed up at a 
glance; and, while the brain is engaged, the countenance must not 
betray the matter of cogitation. 

An ability to do this is the attainment which enables a stout person 
to stand the center of a group, — drinking, laughing, and chatting ; never- 
theless keeping his mind so steady and his eye so clear to business as 
will justify him in purchasing young stock which has only been once led 
past him. All horse dealers, however, are not thus gifted : very many 
live to repent the hasty judgments on which their money has been 
staked ; but the ideal, to which all aspire and which not a few certainly 
embody, is fairly stated in the above qualifications necessary for the 
successful pursuit of the trade. 

Not the easiest portion of the business is to form a just estimate of 
the taste of the customers ; so that when a horse is shown, the purchaser 
may ideally behold some patron upon the animal's back ; for a dealer 
rarely likes to buy without he can discern his way to the end of the 
transaction. "Ah! just Sir William's stamp 1" "Lady Louisa would 
give her heart rather than miss that, after having seen itl" Or, "The 
very cut for Lord Harry's hunt !" These, and similar mental ejaculations, 
are at once acted upon. The tastes and foibles of various customers are 



363 



HORSE DEALERS. 



always estimated. It is astonishing how seldom comparatively coarse 
and uneducated judgments err, though all such calculations may not in- 
variably succeed. The failures, together with cheap purchases, however, 
constitute the ordinary stock-in-trade of most yards. 

The foregoing qualifications are imperative in first-rate purchasers; 
but other accomplishments are also requisite in the perfect dealer. His 
manner must be so brusque as to provoke laughter ; nevertheless so ap- 
parently simple as not to alarm the most timid customer. This suggests 
a nice medium ; but it is astonishing how tenderly some unrefined intel- 
lects will embody it. The stout person who, as you enter the gateway, 




THE MAN, OBACED WITH THE SWEETEST MANNEES, WHO SELLS THB HORSES. 



salutes yon with a not altogether ungraceful lift of the hat, and rings the 
bell as he approaches to learn your wishes, may be barely able to read 
or to write. In a particular line of diplomacy, however, he is a model 
worthy study ; for, smiling as his face may be — bland as his manners 



HORSE DEALERS. 36^ 

are — or studied as his dress appears — still, he is reckoning you up in his 
own mind; and all the time you are quizzing him, he is cunningly 
endeavoring to fathom your intentions and to form a correct estimate of 
your character. 

Certain members of the trade possess in an extraordinary degree a 
power to comprehend the unacknowledged purpose of those individuals 
whom they encounter. Without such an accomplishment, no man is 
fitted to take charge of the yard ; as, unless he be thus qualified, the 
horses might be trotted up and down when quiet was needed to rest the 
bodies or to lay on flesh. 

Gentlemen who do not exactly know their own minds, very rarely 
become purchasers; but these uncertainties are seldom tired of seeing 
the dealer's stock run out before them. Were not such individuals to be 
recognized, the grooms might be vexed, the master might be fatigued, 
and the animals might be plagued, — only to extort a verbal promise 
"to look in some other day." Whereas popular prejudice insists that on 
the dealer's premises all should be smiles — men and horses must appear 
overflowing with life — gay and happy ; as though the place sheltered no 
anxiety, and none within it knew a care. 

The regular horse dealer rather avoids than encourages customers 
who are called "flats." He does not object to inexperience, when it 
will rely upon his generosity, and confide itself to the more practical 
judgment of the tradesman. Such a person, under the dealer's guid- 
ance, perhaps would be safer than he would be in the hands of most 
fashionable friends. But there is always an absence of welcome when 
a young gentleman lounges into the yard, who wants something and 
never buys anything until he has been thoroughly taken in. 

When an individual presents himself to the attendant of the ride, it 
is necessary the standing of the new customer should be ascertained 
before any quadruped is submitted to his notice. Curious mistakes are 
sometimes made ; but it is now understood that such a matter must be 
decided prior to the commencement of any business. This arrangement 
saves time, and also secures other advantages ; for, obviously, nothing 
could be gained by showing "a park hack" to a city merchant; neither 
would much satisfaction be expressed were the animal suited to drag a 
spring cart submitted to the notice of some titled turfite. The time 
would be wasted, during which a cob worth five hundred pounds was 
paraded before a person whose ideas were limited to something under 
forty guineas; and the quiet nag, qualified to carry age with safety, 
would not be even inspected by a youngster who was impatient to be 
mounted upon his first "May bird." 

The phrase last employed — "May bird" — may not be intelligible to 



864 HORSE DEALERS. 

all readers. Therefore the equestrian must pardon the author, if he 
here interrupts the course of the present description to explain its mean- 
ing. A " May bird " implies a young animal of no great height, with 
some showy points, but with no constitution to stand work. These 
quadrupeds are kept, during the spring season, in the stables of most 
London dealers ; and they are shown to young gentlemen as handsome 
saddle horses. The majority, however, soon succumb to work ; many 
yield as the warm weather increases ; and few endure even to a second 
season. 




A MAT BIRD. 



To establish a connection requires that each customer should be better 
suited even than pleased. Both are, of course, desirable ; but a person 
well suited generally becomes well pleased; whereas the individual 
whose pleasure is alone consulted, not being suited, is certain to grow 
ultimately dissatisfied. Horse dealing, therefore, is attended with con- 
siderable anxiety; yet the members of the calling generally grow fat 
upon such a diet. Few, when of middle age, retain a figure fitted for 
the saddle, although nearly all have been good and fearless horsemen- 
during youth. The pursuit, however, is not one of laziness ; but often 
obliges the endurance of great bodily and mental fatigue. 

All dealers travel much. They always attend those large horse fairs 
which are held in the north of England. Their business compels them 
to make periodical journeys among the distant breeders of stock. When 
walking over the breeder's farm, they often interrupt conversation to 
bid for some foal; and may, off-hand, purchase the animal wh;ch shall 
please their fancy. Business always seems the last subject which oc- 



HORSE DEALERS. 365 

cupies the dealer's thoughts ; nevertheless, he is invariably alive to the 
opportunities of trade. Some of the calling will buy unbroken or very 
young colts, though such speculations are rather exceptional with the 
general body. All, however, will make a conditional bargain for the 
"likely thing." Such transactions are arranged in few words; and 
though no writings may be drawn up, these understandings are usually 
observed by both parties to the contract. 

At the successive horse fairs, a dealer generally occupies the same 
station. His back may rest against some rail ; and here, surrounded by 
an eager group, he appears the most gay of the party. Yarious young 
horses are brought and run before him ; for, at the accustomed spot, the 
little man is always anticipated. Some horses he buys ; others he rejects. 
Respectable dealers usually accept their purchases upon no better se- 
curity than their personal judgment. They ask for no written warranty ; 
a verbal assurance that " all is right," is with them sufficient. Though 
should any palpable defect or injury, which has undergone treatment, be 
subsequently discovered, of course the bargain is void. 

But low or sharp tradesmen are Very particular about written war- 
ranties ; consequently they cannot command the choice of the market. 
Breeders know perfectly well the dishonest uses to which a written war- 
ranty can be converted. A horse may be sold ; but it is not always got 
rid of when a written warranty accompanies the sale. It may be taken 
to London. Months afterward, the breeder may receive a letter which 
shall contain a veterinary surgeon's certificate of unsoundness, stating 
that lameness or "the seeds of disease" must have existed at the time 
of purchase. This letter generally concludes with a demand that the 
purchase money may be returned, all expenses be paid, and the animal 
be fetched away; or, if these conditions are not convenient, the late 
purchaser will consent to retain the horse, supposing twenty pounds of 
the sum formerly received are forwarded to the address of "your humble 
servant." 

Now, to dispatch a man to town, to bring an animal many miles, to 
risk the chances of the journey, to return a sum of money which was 
probably spent as soon as received, and lastly, to pay for several months 
of keep, — are bad conditions. The farmer may be morally convinced 
that the report is unfounded; but he has three choices before him: 
either to risk an action at law, to expend a considerable sum, or to be 
swindled out of a comparatively small amount. Any person can see 
which of such terms must be the easiest to a needy man ; and the last 
is generally accepted. Thus, by a dishonest practice, the unscrupulous 
dealer obtains a colt cheap ; especially should the subsequent sale prove 
a fortunate transaction. 



366 HORSE DEALERS. 

The honest dealer purchases the young animal when fresh from the 
breaker's hands, before a day's work has been performed, and has the 
quadruped led or conveyed to London. If the journey is accomplished 
by the road — the stages, of necessity, being short — the expense and 
hazard are, of course, equal to the time occupied on the way. The 
railroad is a cheaper mode of transport ; but it is attended with a cer- 
tain risk, which is peculiarly its own. Some young horses will perish 
from the fright engendered by the journey; others are made seriously 
ill by the novelty of the situation; while many knock themselves about, 
and arrive at the journey's termination seriously blemished. 

Several respectable dealers would prefer to have their stock rather 
killed outright, than behold it seriously blemished. In one case, the loss 
is by no means certain; in the other instance, the pecuniary sacrifice is 
small, when compared with the annoyance and the trouble consequent 
on the treatment of acute suffering. Besides, all dealers dislike to have 
an ailing quadruped on their premises, which they are desirous should 
be known only as the abode of happiness and of health. For such 
reasons, not a few of the fraternity, when any animal may be diseased 
or blemished, invariably dispose of it for whatever it will fetch, rather 
than incur the chances of recovery, or open their gates for the admit- 
tance of damaged stock. 

A business so conducted — requiring a considerable outlay, necessita- 
ting heavy risks and attended with frequent losses — must be recommended 
by certain profits. The costs of every dealer's establishment are very 
serious. Animals — especially very young animals — make no immediate 
return. The charge has not terminated when the colts are stabled in 
the place of trade. The creatures are then raw and wild. They have 
to be gradually brought into selling condition, and have to be fattened 
till unfit for work. They also have to be groomed until their coats 
shine "like satin." Such are the obligations of the London market; 
and though all animals in this state are dangerously near to disease, yet 
whoever, inhabiting the metropolis, should attempt to dispose of horse 
property in cS more sound condition, will, in the certainty of loss, be 
heavily rebuked for his temerity. 

Moreover, when fresh from the country, young stock have to be 
accustomed to the bustle and noise inseparable from the streets of Lon- 
don. They have to become familiar with the difference of handling, 
voice, and manner, which distinguishes Yorkshire from Middlesex. The 
dealer, therefore, has some further employment, after his purchases are 
all safe in his stables. He has to rise early, before respectability is 
awake to watch his doings, in order to break in his fresh acquisitions. 
None but perfectly-trained horses are suffered to go out into the thronged 



HORSE DEALERS. 36t 

thoroughfares. An animal is often secreted for months before it is 
permitted to "show abroad," and it is then expected, hke a beauty at 
Almack's, "to ravish the eyes of all beholders." Lastly, the dealer in 
horses has to endure those checks and disappointments which attend 
upon every known speculation with life. 

Then, if not sold, the quadrupeds nevertheless must be fed. Thus 
several, before they meet a purchaser, "have eaten their own heads off 
twice over ;^^ or, in the language of ordinary life, have for provender 
cost more than their selling value. No reflective man can, therefore, 
anticipate a London dealer is to dispose of his stock-in-trade at what is 
implied by "reasonable prices." Some animals may fetch double or 
treble the purchase money; but the majority do little beyond paying 
their expenses. Nevertheless, as the dealer makes the selection, his 
judgment may be taunted, should he not choose horses that shall prove 
remunerative. 

We shall, however, best judge of the enormous profits attending this 
pursuit by considering results, as exemplified in the wealth of individuals. 
Perhaps for every man who succeeds in the business, three persons 
attempt it and become bankrupts. The fourth man may do a large 
trade; and, spite of the fickleness of fashion or the accidents of the 
London season, may maintain a position for several years. But how 
seldom is society startled by hearing of a deceased horse dealer having 
left behind him any vast sum of money to "his heirs and assigns 1" On 
the other hand, the author knows of many instances where reputed 
thriving dealers have refused to rear their children to their own calling. 
Such acts do not denote horse dealing to be a highly lucrative specula- 
tion. Judging from long experience, the author would not point to the 
dealers of London, as a body, remarkable for the possession of any con- 
siderable amount of property. 

Carriage horses no London tradesman professes to keep. Thus one 
source of profit is relinquished ; but should a pair of extraordinaiy 
beauties be encountered, when "on the travel," these will be secured; 
because the dealer knows there is always a market for such commodities. 
The treaty for the transfer of these rarities may even have been con- 
cluded before the prizes reached the marketable age ; for, as a rule, 
extraordinary quadrupeds are seldom brought into the common market. 
It is an ambition with the trade to point to a pair of showy bays in Her 
Majesty's stables, or before the vehicle of an exclusive nobleman, and to 
boast "those horses came from his yard." Of such scarce opportunities 
every dealer will joyfully avail himself; but there are many cogent 
••easons which prevent him from constantly keeping his stables supplied 
with the ordinary kind of carriage quadrupeds. 



368 HORSE DEALERS. 

In the first place, the horses known as Cleveland bays are costly to 
purchase and expensive to keep. These creatures soon lose condition, 
and almost as rapidly yield to disease. Then, their sale is mostly con- 
fined to the London season. If not disposed of during their third year, 
age does not increase their value. Moreover, there are parties styled 
"large job masters " who, almost exclusively, trade in this kind of animal. 
These persons all keep extensive studs, some of the body being said to 
possess more than a thousand horses of this particular description. Such 
animals are let out by the year, for amounts varying from fifty to one 
hundred and fifty pounds : the latter sum, however, mostly includes a 
contract to supply the stables also with food. 

Should a quadruped, while thus engaged, be taken ill, the owner 
receives back the invalid, and fills its place with a healthy substitute. 
If an animal is not approved of, it can always be exchanged. Thus, for 
a fixed sum, a carriage is nearly certain to be well horsed ; which, when 
equine episootics prevail, cannot be assured, where even more than the 
necessary pair are maintained. The gentleman is consequently spared 
.the fruitless trouble of searching for, and the great expense of purchas- 
ing, those horses which fashion points to as, par excellence, alone fitted 
to run before a stylish equipage. The person, however, who lets out 
the animals does not always provide the food ; very rarely does he pay 
the cost incurred for shoeing, for lodging, or for attendance ; though, for 
a proper consideration, he will contract to provide everything, — even the 
carriage in which his patrons shall ride. 

The owner of the carriage generally has to find shoes, stables, and 
servants, the jobbing being limited to the horses or to their sustenance. 
Job masters are generally much more wealthy than dealers, notwith- 
standing the feeble character of the Cleveland bays, and the notorious 
want of care bestowed by most persons who hire other people's prop- 
erty. Such a business evidently requires some tact and a large capital, 
to be successfully pursued. It is imperative the job master should stand 
especially well with the servants of his patrons. Such a necessity im- 
plies a perpetual drain upon the pocket, as the menial's good-will, if 
desired, must be purchased. Then, there is a large body of retainers to 
keep and to trust. The employment of these persons is to loiter about 
the different mews ; to treat the servants ; to coax information concern- 
ing masters' habits and missuses' exactions. 

Such particulars are essential, that the jobber may know where to 
place his animals. Young horses would be battered to pieces in the 
service of a lady who likes to be driven fast, pulled up sharp, or who 
stays "out late o' nights." An elderly person, who never ventures 
abroad after dark, and is averse to speed, has the carriage sometimes 



HORSE DEALERS. 369 

beautifully horsed ; because such stables are regarded as nurseries, al 
though, more than occasionally, they are used to coax a sick animal 
back to health. Here the jobber's understanding with the coachman 
comes into play. The driver makes repeated complaints of a certain 
horse. "It nearly overturned them to-day." "The servant is certain 
an accident must happen." "He must really leave a kind employer, if 
that horse is to be kept." The job master at length is sent for ; of course 
he is deeply pained ; but, to oblige Lady Everard, he most reluctantly 
consents to receive back a vigorous young horse, and agrees to supply 
its place with a debilitated cripple, which has but recently left a loose 
box in some veterinary establishment. 

One hundred and fifty pounds may appear to be a heavy sum to pay 
annually for the use of a single pair of horses ; but the agreement is not 
strictly of this nature. The job master contracts to keep a carriage 
horsed for one year, and to feed the animals while so engaged. To do 
this properly will, on some years, require the services of four or five 
horses. The job master also agrees to take back all sick quadrupeds, 
and to pay for all necessary treatment, as well as to put up with every 
kind of unavoidable accident. In London, moreover, all Cleveland bays 
are expected to possess high action. Such a form of stepping soon 
disables the feet; while the bearing-rein speedily renders the animals 
"roarers." 

These evils are, generally, confirmed before the advent of the sixth 
birthday ; thus, few of the quadrupeds live to be discarded, — in proof of 
which, Cleveland bays are not to be generally seen upon the cab rank : 
very rarely is this favorite of fashion to be encountered performing any 
of the lower grades of equine service. 

With these creatures the London dealer does not habitually meddle ; 
neither does he pretend to regularly trade with racing stock, although it 
is not unusual to meet in his stables some thorough-bred which was at 
its birth entered for the Derby. These bloods, however, are always 
"weeds;" or, in plain language, they are quadrupeds which have been 
rejected by the trainer as wortUess. Their bodies are short, and lack 
substance; their chests are narrow; while their long legs are deficient 
in bone and in tendon. Their quarters are mean, and their withers low. 
One or two of this kind stand in the stalls of most dealers. They are 
pretty and graceful, being agile and light ; but, when shown to a cus- 
tomer, they usually stand upon slightly rising ground, which may "acci- 
dentally^^ give to them an extra half hand of height ; for such specimens 
of horse flesh are all of stunted growth. 

Hunters are not, as a rule, to be bought in London; nor does the 
term, in strictness, imply any particular breed. Animals in a condition. 

24 



3T0 HORSE DEALERS. 

for the cnase must generally be sought in the neighborhood of the various 
"meets." Nevertheless, many a stout horse, which would make an ad- 
mirable hunter, is to be often bought of a London dealer. The hand- 
some nag, the showy brougham horse, the spanking trotter, the pretty 
May bird, etc. — in short, all such quadrupeds as ladies admire, and as 
gentlemen love to exhibit during "the season," may be met with in every 
regularly-appointed yard. 




When before a dealer, if the gentleman is no judge of a horse, or has 
no confidence in his own opinion, he should not attempt to be thought 
wise on such subjects. The salesman may not stare at the purchaser; 
indeed, the trader may appear impressed with an overwhelming idea of 
the customer's importance, as he humbly asks a question and submis- 
sively waits a reply. But, long before the first animal has been run out, 
he will accurately have taken the measurement of his patron. The man 
will know the limits of his visitor's equestrian attainments as perfectly 
as though they had been companions from the hour of birth. 

Never demand a warranty. Such things are only temptations to take 
proceedings. They may infljience a jury ; but the plaintiff, frequently, 
only recovers a loss. The verdict is often unjustly given against a 
dealer whom a gentleman drags into court ; but private or extra costs 
generally consume more than the money which marks the difference 
between a legally sound and a tolerably serviceable quadruped. All 
dealers are not, in attorney's phraseology, "worth powder and shot." 



HORSE DEALERS. 



Hll 



Rumors about law may render the tradesman's creditors pressing ; while 
the certainty of loss may induce a man to be somewhat careless in his 
expenditure. Should failure anticipate the trial, the plaintiff will have 
to pay his own expenses; for, under such circumstances, a verdict is 
simply so many recorded words, awarding nothing 1 

Nor is the seller always to blame. All dealers are not positive judges 
of soundness. Moreover, soundness is often variable. An animal may 
be sound in the morning, unsound at noon, and sound again at night. 
Life is fixed to no one condition. A man may be well when he rises, 
he may distraught before mid-day, and nevertheless may be quite hearty 
at eve. Horses are subject to temporary influences, like those which 
affect their masters. But society will regard horses and saucepans only 
as articles of use. A wide difference divides the animate from the inani- 
mate ; but, notwithstanding the advance of education, mankind have yet 
to observe in their behavior those broad distinctions which nature has 
instituted throughout creation. 




"ANT QENILEMAN AS REALLY WANTED A SODND AND SERVICEABLE BROOGUAM HORSE, I " 

"WELL I Ton MAT SEND HIM TO FIELD'S — AND GET HIM EXAMINED." 

It is the safer and the better plan for a gentleman not to bother abou;*; 
soundness. To keep his ideas fixed upon the horses only to discover 



3t2 HORSE DEALERS. 

whether these are equal to his desires. He sees a horse run up and 
down the ride; observes its manner of going; notes its make, shape, 
and height ; remarks its color ; ascertains the price, and roughly esti- 
mates its qualities. But he had better not finger the animal, or attempt 
to investigate matters which concern more than his personal approval. 
Having seen these things, when the dealer begins to talk, he had better 
turn upon his heel, and do no more than order the quadruped to be taken 
to the veterinary surgeon who may be honored with his confidence. 

The horse dealer generally feels his opportunity has opened when the 
gentleman meddles with matters which he does not fully comprehend ; 
and very few gentlemen are qualified to act as veterinary surgeons. By 
adhering to the above plan, the purchaser is the more likely to please 
himself by his selection, and is certainly less likely to be imposed upon. 
The attention is steadily fixed upon the individual points of recommenda- 
tion, and the mind refuses to enter upon scientific questions concerning 
which the non -professional man cannot be instructed. 

The examination being passed, before the money is paid the quad- 
ruped is either saddled or harnessed, and is tried by the contemplating 
purchaser. When mounted upon or when sitting behind a strange 
horse, no person should indulge any attempt at display. The object 
being to ascertain the acquirements of the steed, the rider should allow 
free scope to its humors, and should encourage its confidence. Employ 
neither whip nor spur. Reject such articles, if they are offered. A 
good animal will necessitate no coercion; but severity may, possibly, 
disguise either good or bad qualities. Should chastisement be impera- 
tive, refuse to administer it ; but reject a sluggish animal. Allow the 
reins to be almost loose : let the creature go its own pace, and take its 
own road : watch every movement, however, and carry the bridle hand 
ready to check or to support, should either become necessary. 

A lively and desirable nag should answer to the voice. Often the 
intention will be comprehended, when no sound is uttered. There is a 
speedy and mysterious freemasonry soon established between an intelli- 
gent nag and a proficient equestrian. This, it is desirable, should be 
developed. When the rider or driver is seated, he should reject all 
further service from the groom. Permit the horse to walk, trot, canter, 
gallop or bolt out of the yard : should it go quietly, watch its head and 
ears as it passes through the gateway. Many young quadrupeds will 
be alarmed during such a passage; some will evince their feeling by 
very demonstrative behavior. Therefore, allow no man to hold the 
rein, and, under a pretense of attention to the gentleman, give confi- 
dence to the nag, now controlled by a strange master. 

Should the first trial not answer expectation, the treaty ought not 



HORSE DEALERS. 373 

therefore to be abruptly broken oflF. Many a promising and a valuable 
horse is thus cast upon the dealer's hands, the estimable qualities of 
which a little patience would have made apparent. But a good horse 
may require to be educated, before it will carry a certain master as be 
desires ; this reason forms an almost unsurmountable objection to any 
conclusion being just, which is based upon a solitary trial. Most 
dealers, if they know the animal should suit, will grant a fortnight's 
further acquaintance, before the bargain is concluded. The terms gener- 
ally are, that if the sale is broken off, then the gentleman pays for the 
services he has engrossed : should the treaty be ratified, then the pur- 
chase money covers all demands, the purchaser paying only for the 
provender consumed during his period of hesitation. 

In every horse transaction, treat the tradesman with consideration. 
Many gentlemen, when speaking to a dealer, assume a familiarity which 
is an impertinent, and not unseldom proves to be an expensive, affecta- 
tion. Others adopt a superciliousness which is very offensive and rather 
dangerous; for, while the customer is supporting a foreign behavior, 
the dealer may be humoring the whim, and covertly flattering, though 
watching his opportunity for revenge. Above all things never lose your 
temper, or by your language violate the rules of decency; as, by so 
doing, you descend to a level where you are certain to be mastered. 
These cautions must be observed during personal intercourse. With 
respect to the rest. Avoid lawyers. This is the more easily done, if 
the few directions here laid down are rigidly adopted. 

Dealers are, generally, very accommodating in their trade transactions. 
They will do anything, excepting return money ; a condition with which 
most of them are not able to comply. They will take back an animal 
which does not suit. They will allow the dissatisfied gentleman to 
walk through their stables, and to choose another horse, on the terms 
that the choosing party pays the difference of price between the nag 
which has been sent back and the steed which is afterward preferred. 
To be sure, such exchanges are apt to prove costly, and, generally, are 
prosecuted very much to the dealer's advantage. Therefore, a gentle- 
man has reason for suppressing his discontent; and may do well to 
endure, a little longer, the quadruped which originally pleased him, and 
which may turn out an estimable acquaintance after the first qualms of 
early proprietorship have subsided. 

If dealers have an aversion, it is to be bothered by the visit of a 
"greenhorn," who does not know exactly what he wants. Consequently 
everybody, before entering the premises, should ascertain his desires. 
He must not request "to see an animal fit to run in a gig, but which can 
carry saddle occasionally." He should not inquire for "a nag which he 



9^i HORSE DEALERS. 

or his sister can ride." He must ask to behold a horse fit only for one 
purpose. If to be ridden, the weight of the rider should be stated, and 
the age of the equestrian is likewise desirable, as well as the habits — 
that is, whether the gentleman is old or is young, is used to the saddle, 
or is about to take horse exercise for the first time, under medical advice. 
These things are necessary, that the dealer may judge of the strength, 
the spirit, and the temper which will answer a purchaser's expectation. 

So also when a brougham horse is wanted, the weight of the vehicle 
should be given. If a harness horse is sought, it ought to be named, 
with the kind of conveyance the animal is required to pull. If a car- 
riage needs a quadruped, other than a Cleveland bay, every particular 
should be detailed, the dealer being also asked to step round and to look 
at the creature which it is desired to match. Nothing is better calcu- 
lated to win a dealer's respect than to have such points ready; for, 
though these may give some trouble to the novice, they occur as matters 
of course to the practiced proprietor. Moreover, such particulars save 
much vexation, and prevent the horses being needlessly disturbed — an 
occurrence which invariably annoys the best-tempered of tradesmen. 

When you enter a yard, never request to see "the horses." Such a 
demand is a lamentable confession. Ask to speak with the proprietor 
or with the salesman. State what you wish to obtain. Be precise, 
even to particulars ; and inquire if there is such an animal among the 
stock. The reply most probably will be negative. Then ask if the 
person you are addressing knows of such a creature, and could procure 
you an inspection. Very likely an appointment for some future day 
will be embodied in the reply given to the last interrogatory. Then you 
must retire immediately, and patiently wait the promised opportunity. 

Never be in a hurry, or exhibit any impatience, in the yard of a 
dealer. Take everything coolly, and act as though it were far from your 
desire to look at horses or to walk through stables. Greenhorns are 
always greedy concerning such particulars. Consult the master; rather 
confide in his judgment and trust to his activity, than display any forward- 
ness to encounter personal responsibility and to undergo bodily fatigue. 
Horses are numerous, and dealers are always eager to eifect a sale; 
therefore be quiet and rather reserved, being conscious that, to procure 
the animal which shall exactly suit in every particular, cannot be a very 
ready, a very easy, or a very speedy affair. 

When buying, always, in regard to strength, purchase a horse rather 
above than in any degree below the purpose you have in view; or, in 
other words, obtain an animal apparently too strong, in preference to a 
little too weak or just strong enough, for the work it is wanted to 
perform. Do this, because strength denotes value when labor has to be 



HORSE DEALERS. 375 

executed; and most men are cruel judges, where the exertions of 
another's life are concerned. 

Always enter a dealer's yard prepared to pay for that which you seek ; 
for, in horses, the cheap is, to the general public, the worthless. Bone 
and muscle, united to spirit and activity, will always bring their value, 
and are the cheaper, because they will endure longer than a dozen of 
those lanky and misshapen substitutes which are disgracefully over- 
weighted in the majority of genteel broughams which traverse the 
streets of London. 

However, pay what he may, no unknown individual, walking into a 
dealer's yard, should expect to have the positive choice of all the trader's 
stock. Anything very good is never offered to a stranger, who can boast 
' of no better recommendation than his banker's account. In country 
meetings, at fairs, and at public sales, the highest bidder has a better 
chance, though at these places the market is commonly forestalled ; but 
the dealer knows by experience how diflBcult it is to procure a prime 
piece of horse flesh. When he gets such a treasure into his hands, the 
feelings of his class will not allow him to throw away his good fortune. 
A fair equivalent or a heavy price can be everywhere obtained ; but the 
one chance of years — the beauty which is rarely seen and scarcely to be 
purchased — is always regarded as something out of the sphere of regu- 
lar business. The dealer hoards such a treasure, and hopes to behold it 
where, for a number of years, it will remain an honor to his judgment, 
and a living proof that its late master has dealings with the most ex- 
alted of England's aristocracy I 

In this country, a good horse will always fetch its value, and that 
price includes something more than money. This is the reason why 
plain Mr. Smith, who is known to pay the highest prices, never can ex- 
hibit a vehicle so well horsed as are Her Majesty's carriages. The gen- 
tleman's animals even do not shine forth, when compared with those 
possessed by some fashionable but notoriously poor scion of nobility. 
The feelings of the dealers are opposed to Mr. Smith's ambition ; not- 
withstanding treble his money were expended, he could not be gratified 
by commanding the excellence which his superiors may purchase toler- 
ably cheap. 

There is, however, in London too much eagerness to possess a well- 
furnished stable, for a really fine animal ever to be cast upon the open 
market. The tradesman, when he sees a prime quadruped, buys it always 
with a mental determination as to the person best qualified to be the 
future proprietor. The differences between the sums paid will not, there- 
fore, fully account for the noble creatures which inhabit the stables of my 
lord, and the respectable lot which consume moneyed Mr. Smith's com. 



3Tft 



HORSE DEALERS. 



The existence of sucli an influence will no doubt be denied by most 
established dealers, as it will assuredly be abjured by all the outside 
members of the fraternity. The struggling tradesman is, however, not 
likely to be tempted by such a possession. A Yorkshire breeder watches 
his stock from the day of birth. No sooner does the practiced eye 
notice the promise of extraordinary worth, than the most liberal of Lon- 
don purchasers is invited to travel northward and to consider its probable 
value. Any trade connected with horses must therefore be of a specu- 
lative character ; and a fine foal is sometimes partly paid for before the 
first year has been attained. A kind of deposit is made, to secure the 
offer of the animal when fit for the market — the money being lost should 
the purchase not be completed, but the sum being deducted from the 
price should the dealer agree to perfect the transaction. Thus the prin- 
cipal traders incur great risks, and in return secure a legitimate power 
of selection, prior to the opening of the public market. 




UNCLOTHINQ THE BEADIY. 



When a promising colt approaches the period of publicity, the greatest 
possible care is devoted to its developments and to its education. It is 



HORSE DEALERS. 3Tt 

not exposed to the common gaze. No Eastern slave merchant regards 
with greater jealousy the flower of his female flock than does the London 
dealer survey what he believes will, in his sphere, prove "the prize of 
the season." The door of its stable is constantly locked. All its re^ 
quirements are profusely supplied. It is never taken abroad, save when 
fully clothed and closely hooded. Only before the earliest hour of busi- 
ness or after the gates have been shut upon the bustle of the day does 
the dealer feast his eyes upon the bare perfections of his treasured pos- 
session. The ceremony of unveiling is then slowly performed, and every 
particular is minutely examined, lest unforeseen accident should have 
interfered with the realization of equine loveliness. 

The pursuits of the dealer, therefore, are not without excitement, are 
not devoid of care, nor free from trouble. His stock-in-trade is very 
perishable, and is peculiarly exposed to deterioration. But most of these 
people seem to fatten on anxieties. They generally are a heavy, a happy- 
looking, and a corpulent race ; but, like all people who engage in a busi- 
ness which admits of no standard of excellence but success, the estab- 
lished dealer in horses has an overwhelming notion of his own abilities. 
This is the weak point in his general character. Science is ridiculed, 
and the results of experience are despised, when either are opposed to 
the personal opinion of the yard. Consequently, few of the calling con- 
sult a veterinary surgeon. In the mysteries of disease and in the prop- 
erties of medicine they acknowledge no superior ; for the owner, com- 
monly, is the possessor of secret nostrums which he esteems to be of 
marvelous efiicacy. 

After the gates have excluded the confusion of the street, the dealer 
usually walks through his stables, attended by his head groom. Then 
frequently such orders as the following are issued: "Jim! Get a cor- 
dial; this young thing is scouring!" "Jim! Let Bartley's bay have a 
warm mash, and shake an alterative into it." "Jim! Mind me to- 
morrow, that Clement's chestnut wants blooding — the legs are filling." 
"A pinch of diuretic would do no harm here. Jim ! Break me half a 
one from the locker!" "Jim! Somehow, this brown youngster don't 
mend kindly. It must be some flying humors ; — prepare him for physic. " 
"As for Blossom, I'm tired of seeing her. She has eaten her head twice 
over! Well! well! Jim. Well, give hjr a condition ball; and perhaps 
some greenhorn may fancy her to-morrow." 

To dabble with danger is the last madness of conceit. Persons thus 
imprudent will not bear to be carelessly approached or slightingly ad- 
dressed. Such an infirmity is soon provoked to impertinence. The 
reader, therefore, will be only rendered more safe, who observes every 
recognized form of courtesy when treating with the dealer. This is best 



318 HORSE DEALERS. 

done by avoiding that silly familiarity which must be insulting to the 
sensible man, but which the knave likes, because it affords opportunities 
for his practices. Let the gentleman keep his proper station, and the 
dealer, without being offended, will observe his. But, before the yard 
is entered, above all things it is imperative to ascertain what is desired, 
as neither civility nor compliance will be elicited by a general request 
for " a horse." When the animals are being shown, let the contemplating 
purchaser be silent. He must not allow any false notion of his eques- 
trian knowledge to betray him into a discussion or expose him to de- 
signing compliments. Keep the head cool and the attention clear. Do 
not finger the animal. • Decline all invitations to feel the condition of its 
legs. Undervalue your own accomplishments, by professing not to com- 
prehend such things; and leave the premises with the understanding 
that the horse is to pass the examination of some veterinary surgeon of 
repute. 

The dealer will not submit the quadruped of known unsoundness to 
such a test ; because, in case of rejection, the property is not only de- 
teriorated, but the owner has to pay for the process which casts a taint 
upon his stables : whereas, should the examination be passed, the pur- 
chaser takes the nag and pays for the certificate which assures him of 
its value. These things being done, before the bargain is concluded 
always specify for a trial, which can alone inform the future master of 
matters most essential to his personal pleasure, but which no veterinary 
inspection could discover. It is prudent to attend to these particulars ; 
and it is folly to imagine a warranty can shelter the person who know- 
ingly disregards the security which these alone can afford. 

The customer is thus fenced in or protected on all sides. The con- 
duct of the dealer should declare the personal opinion of the man who is 
best acquainted with the animal. The professional judgment, being de- 
liberately pronounced and duly certified, guards the points where a gen- 
tleman's knowledge may be deficient ; while the trial permits the indi- 
vidual to ascertain such traits as mouth, temper, habits, step, spirit and 
mode of going. After such qualities are approved, the horse may be 
safely accepted ; and no warranty can be necessary, if the above direc- 
tions are observed. 



CHAPTER XII. 

POINTS — THEm RELATIVE IMPORTANCE, AND WHERE TO LOOK FOR THETB 

DEVELOPMENT. 

A GENTLEMAN, when designing to purchase a horse, should think 
about the matter, and should determine, in his own mind, the kind of 
animal he desires to obtain. The want of such definite knowledge is the 
great deficiency with the majority of would-be buyers, and is the chief 
cause of those annoyances which, ultimately, tempt too many well-dis- 
posed persons into dishonest company. 

Having settled the minutest particulars to his own satisfaction, the 
gentleman should never seek to secure a cheap article. Knowing as 
may be the general public, horse dealers are quite up to the mark of 
popular cunning. Goodness in horse flesh is money's worth at any 
market ; and every horse dealer in London is fully sensible to the merit 
as well as to the value of all creatures in his yard. Therefore, the gen- 
tleman will best court civility and honesty by being prepared to give a 
fair price for that excellence which he is desirous of securing. 

The above maxim must be attended to, because a feeling person, when 
he buys a horse, will be sensible he is taking a new member into his 
family. No right-minded man can ever treat life as it were an inanimate 
article ; — to be accepted at his will and to be discarded at his pleasure. 
A lasting bond should, through ownership, be formed between mute 
submission and honored authority ; for man, having the right of choice, 
tacitly undertakes to shelter and to protect, as a return for willing serv- 
ice rendered. Such is the implied or natural agreement : its obligations 
ought to enforce that gentleness which should guard the inferior. 

To fit the reader for exercising a right of selection in a dealer's yard, 
is the intention of the author. The gentleman who peruses this page 
must, therefore, pardon an impertinence if, in the following descriptions, 
he is treated as one entirely ignorant of horse flesh. When all must be 
addressed, it is clearly impossible to make allowance for degrees of learn- 
ing. The most ignorant must be made to understand, and the best in- 
formed must generously overlook those discursions which, disregarding 
personal attainments, appeal to the condition of the uninitiated. To be 

(379) 



380 POINTS. 

intelligible, it will be necessary the author should point out the import- 
ance of certain structures, and explain the uses which appertain to par- 
ticular organs or parts of the animal economy. 

The skeleton is the framework of the trunk and of the limbs. The 
vertebrae are the base, toward which all the other bones concentrate, or 
from which all the other osseous parts originate. Therefore, to start 
from the commencement, we see at one end of the back-bone the skull is 
situated ; while at the other extremity the tail is pendent. The arrange- 
ment exactly accords with the system observed in every well-regulated 
vessel. The sailor who is appointed to look out, stands forward ; while 




THE SPECIAL USE OF THE HEAD, MANE, AND TAIL, WHEN EMPLOTED TOGETHER. 

the individual who steers is always stationed at the poop. The tail, in 
the quadruped, principally directs the course. Hence we perceive the 
folly of those people who, to gratify a whim, excise or mutilate the 
motor integrity of so important a part : thus sacrificing positive safety 
to ^ false notion of improved appearance. 

The animal, gazing in the direction which it desires to proceed upon, 
inclines the body toward that point ; while the tail, being likewise moved 
in an opposite course, sways the trunk into the proper track. The 
flowing hair, operated upon by the wind, gently favors the inclination. 
By understanding this, the reader will comprehend the reason why a 
short tail is rarely compatible with perfect safety. The appendage, 
which mankind regard as chiefly of service to switch away the flies, 
therefore has a higher and far more important function assigned to it. 



POINTS. 381 

The want of alacrity in avoiding danger is justly esteemed a great 
defect; but what right had man to complain of his dumb companion'?^ 
tardiness, when, to gratify a caprice or to conform with the fashion, he 
deprived his servant of the agent by which all sudden motions were 
regulated ? Happily, however, the barbarous custom which once pre- 
vailed is now generally discarded; although docking is even at the 
present moment occasionally practiced, under a notion of improving de- 
ficient quarters, while thinning the tail and mane are commonly adopted 

Nevertheless, the reader of any experience can hardly have failed to 
remark that, since the practice of mutilation has become less general, 
those fearful horse accidents which during the old coaching days were of 
almost hourly occurrence, have not so frequently shocked the sensibilities 
of society. 

Such a circumstance cannot be accounted for by the smaller number 
of animals at present retained for private use. It is well ascertained 
that railways, which it was originally supposed would prove detrimental 
to the breed of horses, have had a decidedly opposite tendency, the ani- 
mals being about twice as numerous as they were during any previous 
period. Thus, with more universal distribution, greater security has 
been attained ; and we perceive, in general operation, only the one cause 
to which present security can be assigned. Masters are not much more 
prudent now than they were formerly ; while fast coaches were not the 
sole causes of the catastrophes of our fathers' days; neither did such 
vehicles start at every hour nor travel upon every road. 

The turning or guiding power having been pointed out, the attention 
must next be directed to the region where all strength centers, and from 
which all ability for motion proceeds. 




THE BACK OF THE HORSE, A3 SEEN FROM ABOVE. 



When the reader has been riding in any vehicle and looking down 
upon the spine of the horse, he can hardly have failed to remark that the 
widest portion of the body was the prominence of the hip-bones. The 
posterior parts, or those behind the projections, are not continuous of 
size; but they nevertheless are far more bulky and altogether more 
fleshy than any of the forward surfaces of the body. Flesh is only 
another term for muscle ; consequently where flesh is most conspicuous, 
strength most resides. The muscles of the hind limbs spring from a 



382 POINTS. 

large bone, variously named in common parlance as the haunch-bone or 
the pelvic-bone. It is also spoken of by anatomists as the os innomi- 
nata. This large bone joins the spine at the hips, and thus lends sup- 
port to the posterior region. But the vertebrae, immediately before the 
hips, are aided by no such accessory. The loins stand alone, or are 
placed entirely without support. This part of the body merely consists 
of certain bones, over which and under which run thick layers or solid 
masses of muscular fiber. 




THE BACK-BONE OP THE HORSE 



A thorough comprehension of the osseous weakness apparent in the 
skeleton of the loins must convince the reader of the absolute necessity 
which exists for some compensating agency, so as to fit the back for its 
burden. The loins therefore should be bulky or muscular. They can- 
not be too large ; but may easily be the reverse. Small loins or weakly 
loins admit of no compensation. The author does not remember an 
instance where such a formation was not associated with mean quarters ; 
whereas be does not recollect a case where size, in this region, was not 
evidence of general strength and of remarkable vigor. The position of 
the part is peculiar. It is intermediate and lies between the haunches, 
which are the propelHng powers, and the thorax, which region is formed 
to endure, to support, or to uphold what the back carries. All inter- 
mediate structures demand strength; because such a position exposes 
the part to the full impulse of adjacent force, its office being simply to 
transmit that impetus which it directly receives. Accordingly, the 
development of the loins, both in man and in horse, may be cited as the 
best proof of the vital power which resides within the frame. 

The loins, to evidence the transmitting office peculiar to this region, 
receive and convey onward the propelling force of the quarters. So, 
when the body is suddenly checked, the loins have to master the first 
energy of the onward impetus, or have to endure the full violence of the 
sudden arrestation of the forward motion in both the animal and its 



POINTS. 383 

burden. In the brief but dangerous feats of leaping, galloping, etc., 
the position of the region and the duties involved by it are so obvious, 
that the author cannot presume to dilate upon what appears to be self- 
evident. 

Muscular loins are imperative in racers and in hunters. They should 
also characterize all saddle horses ; for it is impossible the rider should 
be safely carried unless the back be strong. The animal designed for 
light harness purposes can, perhaps, best dispense with such an essential, 
although even in that case the deficiency is very far from a recommend- 
ation; for weak loins are usually associated with a narrow chest, a 
lanky frame, and a total lack of every property which characterizes en- 
durance. 

In fact, every purchaser should first glance at this part; for here 
reside those proofs which the scientific mind and the practical judgment 
unite in esteeming. No matter what quality may be desired: be it 
strength or appearance, be it speed or endurance, breadth of loins is 
always important. Lumbar development is essential in all cases. In 
short, there is no property for the possession of which the quadruped 
can be valued that is not, more or less, and generally much more than 
in any degree less, dependent upon this portion of the frame for its 
exhibition. 




A HOLLOW-BACKtl) UORSE. 



The back-bone of the horse — lumbar bones and all — is often remark- 
able for very opposite developments which pervade its entire length. 
These are sinking down or curving inward, and rising up or arching 
outward. When the line declines more than usual, the form is denom- 
inated a "hollow b^ck" or "a saddle back," and is generally supposed 



384 POINTS. 

to be indicative of dorsal debility. Animals of such a formation, how- 
ever, commonly are possessed of high crests, of full loins, as well as 
lofty haunches, and they generally exhibit very proud action. 

The late William Percivall, Esq., in his valuable work upon the action 
of the horse, alludes to a creature which displayed this peculiar forma- 
tion, and nevertheless was an excellent hunter. Many readers will 
remember that the once fashionable Lord Petersham used to drive a 
quadruped of this description about London. His lordship's cabriolet 
could never stop, but a crowd of admirers immediately gathered about 
it. Animals thus shaped, notwithstanding the opinions of horsemen, 
are always highly regarded by the populace, and always afford a very 
elastic seat for the rider. Judging from inquiry, and guided by the re- 
ports of experience, the author — although such a make does not warrant 
an idea of any excessive strength — yet inclines to think that the decision 
which condemns it as symptomatic of extraordinary debility, needs further 
confirmation before it should be universally accepted. 

Animals with hollow backs are usually conspicuous, even among the 
equine race, for many estimable qualities. They are generally very 
docile, and uncommonly good tempered. Putting the undue sinking of 
the spine out of the question, they display numerous excellent points ; 
and, even admitting all that may be said about weakness, they exhibit 
such prominent good qualities as in many occupations may be justly 
esteemed more than an equivalent for their bodily deficiency, — especially 
when employed to carry a lady's saddle. 

The very reverse of all that has been recorded above usually char- 
acterizes the "roach back." The author has hitherto found creatures 
thus made, distinguished for the absence of that power with which pre- 
judice is inclined to invest them. Such animals are to be seen feeding 
upon the commons about Essex, being the pictures of checked develop- 
ment and the representatives of heartless neglect. The offsprings of 
aged dams or colts that have been forced to submit to early labor, every 
feature testifies to the abuse which they have undergone. Quadrupeds 
equally misshapen and equally neglected may frequently be seen drag- 
ging agricultural carts through the streets of London. 

Such deformities are usually vicious and spiteful. They are capable 
of little exertion, and offer a seat of torture to the individual who is so 
unfortunate as to be mounted upon a roach back. Some years ago, the 
author chanced to dissect the body of a quadruped of this description. 
Death had not affected the upward protrusion of the spine, which re- 
tained its peculiar curve. The loins were very poor, and several of the 
lumbar bones were joined together by abnormal osseous deposit. The 
quarters were mean, the belly large, the withers Jow, the neck ewe- 



POINTS. 



38 :• 



shaped, the head big, and the legs long. In short, such horses are 
equally misshapen and mischievous. Any gentleman had better endure 
fatigue than accept such a creature for the companion of his journey. 



My respected friend, Mr. Waller, informs me that he once had a " roach- 
backed" or a "hog-backed" mare which was remarkable for an ungainly 
aspect. But it had very large loins and an excellent barrel. It could 
draw a loaded gig fifty miles in one day, and, at the journey's end, go 
direct to the manger. Here malformation was compensated by the ex- 
istence of other qualities ; but the above example was not benefited by 
the "hog back," which must have interfered with its natural powers. 
The same gentleman bears testimony to an excellent hunter, of the above 
conformation, having likewise fallen under his observance. The animal, 
to be sure, used to "buck jump" its fences; or, in other words, it used 
to spring suddenly from the earth, without notice or preparation for the 
movement. It never gave the rider any warning of its intention by ris- 
ing to its leap. Therefore the loins must have been defective, although 
the animal was endowed with extraordinary power, which alone could 
have enabled it to endure the frequent repetition of so unnatural a pro- 
ceeding. However, the person who was seated, during a hard ride 
across country, on the top of a "roach back," and was indulged with 
numerous "buck jumps" during the morning's amusement, although he 
should invariably be the first in at the death, does by no means present 
to the author's mind an object deserving of any man's envy. 

25 



386 POINTS. 

Neither a long nor a short backed horse is, necessarily, desirable. All 
depends upon the strength of those muscles which support the spine ; 
though, all other points being equal, length generally provides a springy 
seat for the saddle : whereas a short back commonly possesses the greater 
endurance. A long back, having bulging loins, is, however, infinitely to 
be preferred to a short back, with deficient lumbar muscles. The mere 
extent of a part can be no absolute proof in either direction ; though, 
should a choice lie between two carcasses, supposing each to be equally 
deficient or both to be equally favored, then the short back should be 
preferred, because all increase of length necessitates a greater strain upon 
the organs of support. 

But the spine cannot be too long, supposing length to be accompanied 
by a proportionate excess of muscle ; for length and strength of course 
increase speed. The practice, common among the vulgar, of placing the 
open hand upon the upper part of the abdomen to ascertain the distance 
of the last rib from the hip-bone, is a silly custom, and can prove nothing 
but the ignorance of those by whom it is exhibited. A living body 
should be judged as a whole. One part should be viewed in its relation 
to another development. No opinion on such a subject ought to be 
formed upon any solitary test or independent development. 

When considering this portion of the subject, the author may be per- 
mitted to state, it is a disgrace to the intelligence of the present age that 
any cart should be built without springs. The weight and the uses of 
the vehicle are the reasons supposed to necessitate the custom. But 
reason perceives that the real question is, whether living thews and 
muscles shall endui'e the burden, or whether this shall be imposed upon 
inanimate metal? Reducing the matter to a calculation of pounds, 
shiUings, and pence, — which is the cheaper ? Which is the more deli- 
cate? Which is easier to repair, or the less costly to renew? Fact 
pronounces iron to be the answer to the foregoing questions ; and sense 
also declares life has no right to be subjected to that unmitigated labor 
which Providence has provided a means to alleviate. 

The tail is a continuation from the vertebrge. Therefore there is 
reason why a stout dock or a thick root to the tail should be regarded as 
a sign of excellence ; because the part aftbrds some evidence concerning 
the stoutness and the muscularity of the spine itself Or, at all events, 
such testimony is the nearest approach to positive proof which circum- 
stances permit reason to obtain. Nevertheless, it allows of nothing 
stronger than an inference ; but the position of the tail is more decided. 
It should originate level with the prolonged line of the back, and should 
look the thing it is, a continuation of the spine ; for, in this position, it 
necessitates a greater length in the posterior muscles of the haunch, 



POINTS. 



381 



some of which extend from the last bone of the vertebras almost to the 
hock. In a body whose power is dependent on contractility, of course- 
length of substance favors 
the ability to shorten or 
to contract. In proof of 
this, animals with the 
tails "well set on" are 
commonly remarkable for 
speed and for activity. 

The reader will perceive 
how much the aspect of 
the quarters is governed 
by the position of the 
tail, when he inspects the 
illustration which is here 
submitted to his examina- 
tion. 

The Arab naturally 
bears the tail erect; and 
by the rapidity of its mo- 
tions, together with the 
power of the organ, an 
explanation is afforded of 
the ease and the grace with which this breed 
of horses can perform the most difficult evolu- 
tions. The tail of the Enghsh thorough-bred, 
without emphasizing the Arab trait, neverthe- 
less, by its position and its graceful carriage, 
declares the origin whence its lineage is derived. 
A rat tail is a deformity generally disguised in 
large towns. There exist a wide class of expe- 
rienced horsemen who assert they never knew 

a rat tail to spring from a bad body. Why baldness of a particular 
region should indicate general excellence, cannot be explained ; but the 
author is not prepared to quote a single known exception to this all but 
universal prejudice, although it may be opposed to reason. 

The vast majority of quadrupeds, however, are not conspicuous either 
for the carriage or the position of the tails. The dock, in the greate. 
number, is compressed between the haunches. The filthy custom of 
nicking was intended to rectify this position. A portion of the depressor 
muscle was wantonly destroyed, which of course left the opposing agent 
with uncontrolled power. Such barbarity, assuredly, made the tail siiclc 




ORDINARY TA 




GART 



ii88 POINTS. 

out. Bat it injured its utility by damaging its activity. It, moreover, 
left the situation of the organ without amendment or made it more con- 
spicuous. It was a silly practice, and is now, happily, all but discarded. 

The reader, having had his attention directed to the subject, will 
probably be surprised to notice how seldom horses have tails well set 
on to their bodies. In short, the position of the tail, if employed as a 
test for excellence, would cause the majority of quadrupeds to be re- 
jected. The tail, however, should always be observed, not as an abso- 
lute proof of the properties, but as suggestive of the breed. The cart 
horse exhibits a thick dock, which is not remarkable for activity. It has 
one peculiarity ; this is, the extent to which the coat grows backward, 
or the manner in which the origin of the long hairs, is deficient near to 
the haunch. 

The head is the opposite to the tail. In the last, the spinal marrow 
is represented only by thread-like nerves. In the first, the center of all 
sense resides. The brain, with the bones that inclose it and the parts 
that surround it, constitutes no inconsiderable burden. Many structures 
aid in its support ; but the general idea that it is upheld by the verte- 
brae, is no more than a popular error. The bones of the neck rather 
prevent the muscular force dragging the head backward, or limit the 
action of those agents, than actually support any portion of the weight. 
The ease and the grace with which a head, well set on, is carried, pre- 
sents a beautiful object for contemplation ; our admiration should be 
excited by a perception that, great as the weight may be, it is so ex- 
quisitely poised as to inflict no sense of oppression upon the creature. 
The chin can, without effort, almost repose upon the chest : the nostril, 
by the mere operation of the will, can be elevated to the breeze. The 
motions are equally varied, rapid, and incessant. Each inclination is 
directed by a purpose ; and volition is exercised, without experience of 
the vast machinery by which the changes are accomplished, although 
the motions are as active as the power must be great by which they are 
directed. 

The course of the body is, as was before stated, greatly governed by 
the position of the head. To the inexperienced, the freedom of this part 
may appear of little consequence ; thus, ladies are well known to be the 
principal perpetuaters of the bearing-rein, although it has for ages been 
recognized that constant tension will destroy that sensibility of lip by 
which the course of the animal is now directed. The bit, operating 
upon a natural mouth, can sway the body during the topmost speed ; 
for by the inclination of the head is the trunk to be rapidly turned. 

It is therefore imperative, for the ease and safety of the rider or the 
driver, that the head should be well set on, and should be carried with- 



POINTS. 



389 



out sensible restriction. Should the rein be held too tight and a false 
step be made, or should the foot be placed upon a rolling stone, the 
quadruped is almost certain to fall ; for the rapid motion of the head 
being impossible, it cannot be used to restore the disturbed balance. 
The nirableness which could avoid sudden danger is destroyed by the 
fashionable want of feeling. It is a matter for surprise that the presence 
of the bearing-rein is never alluded to when gentlemen seek redress be- 
cause their vehicles have been damaged. Most horsemen, however, 
esteem the neck for its appearance, and few comprehend its utility. 

Any person can discern the difference which characterizes the necks 
here represented. The galloway in front has a well-formed neck, 
although many pretended judges would object that it is too bulky. 




THE FOEM OP NtCK GENERALLY INDICATES THE DISPOSITION OP A HORSE. 



Bulk supposes the presence of muscle; therefore a neck, if properly 
shaped, cannot be too thick. The majority of the cervical motor agents 
extend either to the trunk or to the fore limbs. The size of the neck, 
consequently, influences other regions, and confers positive advantage of 
both ^rength and activity. 

A head well set on is carried in advance of the body only so far as 
may be necessary to counteract the comparative lightness of the for- 
ward structures. 

On the other hand, thinness and smallness of neck is one of the 
peculiar features of emaciation in the horse. It is always seen in the 
old and in the half-starved quadruped. Hence it may be inferred not to 
be a sign of vigor in any condition. The observation should be directed 



390 POINTS. 

to the balance, the ease, and the activity of the cervical region. As 
respects iLs bulk, the author never remembers to have beheld an animal 
v^^ith a neck too thick ; though, he is sorry to confess, he has witnessed 
many of man's servitors with this part of the body most lamentably 
attenuated. 

The second horse, in the foregoing illustration, has that form of neck 
which is commonly seen upon what are called "well bred" and "good 
horses." It is not incompatible with safety of pace; but it is deficient 
in beauty of outline or grace of carriage ; and it cannot be fully equal to 
all the uses of a well-formed neck. The chin may be lowered ; but it 
will be at the expense of an effort, and by the unscrupulous employ- 
ment of the bit or the rein. Such a resort must inflict acute torture, 
especially as this particular kind of neck is rarely accompanied by 
breadth of channel or width of space between the branches of the 
lower jaw. 

The inability to lower the head with ease, removes the eye from the 
ground, and exposes an animal to trip or to stumble, should any sudden 
inequality be present in the road. The second form is, therefore, pref- 
erable to the succeeding neck, which, though possessed of a more 
graceful crest, yet in the protrusion of the nose indicates that strain upon 
the muscular system by which progression is accomplished. No force, 
save that of mechanism, can possibly bring and hold down such a head. 
This defect exposes the animal to much suffering, renders it liable to 
fall, makes it very heavy in the hand, and speedily ruins the mouth 

The last horse exhibits the worst form of the group, — or it presents a 
long neck with the head pointing downward. Such an animal is never 
safe in harness ; but is totally unsuited for the saddle. Creatures thus 
formed are commonly good tempered, but sluggish. This position of 
the head should to all, save only the totally inexperienced, characterize a 
deficiency of nervous energy ; and likev/ise indicate the cost at which 
pace is maintained, and declare the uncertainty of foot. The neck 
should never be protruded, save during the exertion of the greatest 
speed. An animal which habitually assumes this attitude, suggests 
that an ordinary effort is felt to be a mighty tax upon its capabilities. 

The following illustration exhibits a peculiarity of form whi^ the 
author believes is confined to the heavier breed of draught horses. 
Such a neck is alone compatible with slowness of pace. It is, how- 
ever, falsely imagined to denote excessive strength. So far as thickness 
is concerned, muscle must be present, or adipose tissue must abound ; 
but in length there is a deficiency which necessarily will limit the 
amount of motor power. In justification of this opinion, may be 
quoted a' well-known fact, that the huge mountains of flesh which 



POINTS. 



391 



parade the streets of London before the brewers' drays, are not remark- 
able for a power of draught, for a capability of endurance, or for any 
length of existence. 




A BUIL NECK. 



The ewe-necked horse is one in which every appearance of crest is 
absent. Such a form may possess length ; but it is generally wanting 
both in depth and in substance. Animals of this formation are generally 
active, but weakly : other parts are too often characterized by a narrow- 
ness of build, which materially detracts from a capability for endurance 




THE EWE NECK. 



The appearance is, moreover, mean ; this is usually rendered more con- 
spicuous by a thinness and a shortness of mane. The shape of the 



392 



POINTS. 



neck is not, however, to be considered only as governing other organs, 
but is also to be regarded as a consequence of a prevailing absence of 
development. So may the frequent accompaniment, of a vicious dispo- 
sition be viewed as the result of that feebleness which converts the 
easiest task into a mighty labor, and of that absence of beauty which 
can neither kindle the pride nor awaken the fondness of the owner. 

Certain supposed judges are greatly prejudiced in favor of a short 
neck. The characteristic is in some minds associated with the pres- 
ence of bodily strength ; but it cannot be remarkable for denoting the 
existence of such a quality, because an absence of length must abbre- 
viate the amount of muscular fiber. Shortness of neck, besides sug- 
gesting the presence of fat, and interfering with activity, unfits the 
animal for certain situations. A bull neck, although its possessor 
inhabited the most luxuriant pasture, would compel the creature to 
subsist on short commons. Nags, however long may be the legs, or 
short shall be their necks, generally manage to crop the grass, although 
to do so may cause a constant strain upon the limbs, thus counteracting 
one of those effects which the run is invariably supposed to realize. 
Below is inserted an illustration showing the artifice adopted by animals 
of this description. 




THE MANNER IN 'WHICn A 8H0RT-NE0KED HOESE MANAGES TO FEED OFF THE GROUND. 



Having noticed those portions of the spinal column in which the ver- 
tebrae are not associated with other bones, or do not enter into the forma- 



POINTS. 



393 



tion of compound parts, it may assist the judgment of the reader if the 
relative importance of these regions is more particularly descanted upon. 

However desirable an arched and lofty crest may be, it is not, when 
separately considered, any absolute proof of estimable properties. Con- 
joined with other points, it renders excellence more excellent ; but, alone, 
no deduction should be drawn from it. In many parts of Germany, the 
horses exhibit beautifully formed necks, bearing luxuriant manes ; but in 
other respects the quadrupeds are lanky, weak, and washy creatures. 
The dock deserves attention, although it can warrant no more than an 
inference. If it suggests that which other developments equally sup- 
port, it constitutes a valuable accessory toward a sound opinion ; but, 
by itself, it is of no importance. On the contrary, the loins are absolute 
proof: their swelling testimony may be trusted, should both neck and 
tail oppose their evidence. This portion of the body never deceives. It 
is worthy of all reliance : what it declares must be implicitly received. 
And, to many minds, it may appear the more deserving of estimation, 
because full loins are commonly accompanied by a stout dock. 

Attached to the neck is the head, which, in the horse, always be- 
speaks those changes produced by varieties of treatment and difference 
of climate. The favorite and the companion of the semi-civilized Arab 
is, by its association with its master, elevated in intelligence as in beauty. 





A LOW-BRED HOESE. 



A TViLL-BKED HORSE. 



The agricultural teamster of this country exhibits, in its expression, the 
apathy with which it is regarded by its rustic attendant. These are, 
probably, the extremes of the race. That the reader may recognize the 
distinction between them, front views of both heads are above shown. 
In the Arab, the spectator can hardly fail to remark the distance by 



391 



POINTS. 



wliich the eyes are divided. The brow is equally characterized by its 
length as by its breadth, and constitutes no mean portion of the entire 
head. In the lowly-bred face, the region of the brain is comparatively 
small, its width presenting no obvious contrast to the other features. 
The nostrils are not only compressed, but their margins are thick ; while 
the upper lip is adorned by a pair of abundant mustaches. Some animals 
the author has beheld with embellishments of this order which would not 
have disgraced the most hirsute of guardsmen. 

The head of a well-bred horse has been frequently described as form- 
ing a straight line in its forward margin, when it is contemplated from 
the side. Such an assertion is generally true ; but it must not be re- 
ceived as absolutely correct. Horses have been imported from Arabia 
with the craniums and the frontal sinuses considerably enlarged. Such 
a peculiarity is not esteemed a defect by the natives of the East. This 
fact is established by animals, thus characterized, having been sent to 
this country as presents for personages of exalted rank. Such develop- 
ments may not strictly accord with English notions of equine beauty ; 
but the size of the case, in some measure, denotes the magnitude of that 
which it contains. A large brain can be no detriment to any animal 
which is partly prized for its intelligence. 





BULGING FRONTAL SINUSES. 



A CART HORSE, WITH THE ROMAN NOSE. 



Another peculiarity exhibited by a few English thorough-breds, is the 
Roman nose, or a prominence of the nasal bones. The trait is, however, 
less common in the pure Arabian blood than is the previous develop- 
ment. There is a breed of blood horses which exhibit a prominence 
of the nasal bones, or, in other words, present what is designated as 
the "Roman nose." This particular shape, however, is with the coarser 



POINTS. 395 

breeds far from unusual; although in animals of slow work it cannot 
be esteemed a beauty, it also should not be condemned as a huge defect. 
The depression of the nasal point may allow less freedom to the nostril j 
but in a creature whose kind of labor permits slow respiration to be 
employed, this constitutes no absolute objection ; while many quadru- 
peds of this formation are conspicuous for their high courage and their 
lively disposition. 

The leading or distinguishing characteristic of the thorough -bred 
horse is its superior intelHgence. The stranger hardly has spoken to 
the creature, before it begins to investigate his personal appearance. It 
appears to appreciate the words addressed to it, and it responds to any 
act of kindness which may be lavished upon it. Added to this, is the 
evident neatness of its formation ; the clearness of its various features ; 
the grace as well as the lightness of its construction, united with speak- 
ing evidences of strength and of energy. The quadruped apj)ears fit 
to be the associate of man, and almost seems upon an intellectual level 
with its master. ■ As we contemplate the lustrous eye, and feel the rush 
of inquisitive breath, it is impossible not to credit the tales narrated of 
the creature's affection and of its generosity. We can then sympathize 
with the love of the Arab for his steed, and sensibly feel that life in 
the desert would be rendered less desolate by the presence of such a 
companion. ^ 

Yet this elegant quadruped is cast in no arbitrary mould. Its beauty 
admits of the same variety which is conspicuous in other animated 
bodies. The ears usually are small, and approximate toward their tips; 
but they may also be large, and the points may be even wider apart than 
the roots of the organs. Yet, in every shape, a thinness or a delicacy 
of the outer walls, a nice arrangement of the internal protecting hairs, 
together with a fineness in the investing coat, attest to the purity of the 
parental stock. 

A tribe of lop-eared thorough-breds are known to exist upon the 
English course : this peculiarity, however, is not a distinguishing mark 
of purity of blood, or a characteristic running throughout the race. The 
fall of the ear exposes the interior of the organ to the eye of the specta- 
tor : that circumstance, no doubt, suggested the removal of the hairs 
which nature placed as guards before the opening. It is now a common 
practice, with almost every groom, to singe off these hairs with the 
flame of a candle. Such an agent cannot be safely intrusted to vulgar 
hands ; probably to this foolish custom is owing the deafness which by 
horses is so frequently exhibited. Any protruding hair the scissors 
might excise ; but as regards the interior of the ear, grooms, had they 
even a slight acquaintance with physiology, would know that the com- 



39ft 



POINTS. 



mon Father was actuated by benevolence in all His ordinizations, and 
therefore hairs have their appointed uses. 




GOOD AND ACTIVE EARS. LARGB EARS. 



EARS WIDE APART. 



LOW-BRED EARS. 



With the ears no corporal excellence is connected, but with the health 
of this organ the general safety is associated ; for the acuteness of the 
animal's hearing affords no mean protection to the rider. The absolute 
quietude of the ears indicates that sounds are powerless to excite the 
organ. Excessive restlessness of these parts suggests that by straining* 
of one sense, the animal is endeavoring to recompense the obscurity of 
another : that the vision is either lost or imperfect. A lively carriage 
of the ears expresses a sprightly temper, and generally denotes a kind 
disposition ; whereas one member constantly directed forward and the 
other backward, is a frequent sign of "vice," or of timidity in its watch- 
fulness. 

Near the ear is the seat of another special sense. Many people will 
pretend to discover the disposition of a horse by the character of the 
eyes. A restlessness of the globe, the display of any unusual quantity 
of white, and a perpetual tension on the upper lid are imagined to signify 
a "vicious" inclination; but, in reality, these traits express only the 
watchfulness of fear. Such indications are evidences of that suffering 
which has been experienced; and these traits are consonant with an 
anxiety to escape the future assaults of brutality. Despair may not be 
desirable as a companion ; but it is not, therefore, to be falsely stigma- 
tized. 

A prominent eye, expressive of repose, and not exhibiting an abund- 
ance of white, has been pronounced to be declarative of honesty, though 
certain parties have condemned it as indicative of slothfulness. A 
quickness or activity, as contradistinguished from a restlessness in the 
visual organ, is, however, to be desired. . The small eye usual with the 
coarser breed of animals should be avoided, because it is generally 
accompanied by a heaviness of movement. The retracted or deep-set 
eye, which displays the organ only partially, which is somewhat angular 
in figure, and which is commonly spoken of as "a pig-eye," denotes 



POINTS. 



39T 



either weakness of the part, or, to the majority of horsemen, will suggest 
a previous attack of specific ophthalmia. The disease, however, is not, 
in the author's opinion, hereditary, but is generated by that closeness of 
abode and that absence of ventilation to which all grooms strongly 
incline. The present writer has most frequently beheld ophthalmia in 
full and in perfect organs. 






A WATCHFUL AND TIJUD EYE. AN HONEST EYE. 



A LOW-BRED EYE. 



A DISEASED, OR PIJ-EYB. 



Before quitting the consideration of the face, it is imperative that the 
mouth and nostrils should be alluded to. In the well-bred horse, these 
are both large, when compared with the same developments in the ani- 
mal of a coarser origin. The lips should be smooth, soft, compressed, 
and suggestive of energy ; but they should be without the smallest as- 
pect of ill temper. About them, numerous isolated and long hairs may 
be located ; but there should be no accumulation resembling a mustache, or 
bearing even a distant likeness to a beard. Such growths are commonly 
removed by the scissors of the groom ; but the palm of the hand, if 
placed against the muzzle, is certain to ascertain the truth if those things 
ever have been in existence. 





LARGE MOUTH AND NOSTRIL 
OF A WELL-BRED HORSE. 



SMALL MOUTH AND NOSTRIL 
OF A LOW-BRED HORSE. 



THE MOUTH AND NOSTRIL OF AN OLD, 
DEJECTED, WELL-BRED HORSE. 



The lowly-bred animal, being chiefly employed for slow uses, has not 
the need for those ample draughts of air which the faster speed necessi- 
tates should be rapidly respired ; nor is the mouth declarative of the 
same determination which marks the lips of the purer blood. The bit 
is scarcely ever present upon the carter's harness, nor are the mouths of 
his charges formed to retain this invention. The characteristics of low 
birth cannot be effaced from the countenance of a quadruped. Age or 



398 POINTS. 

privation cannot confound the two breeds. The thorough-bred in ruin 
is not to be mistaken for the teamster. No want, no suffering, no length 
of years can obliterate the evidence of nobility from the animal of pure 
descent. 

When purchasing a horse, it is always well to examine the angles of 
the lips. If any sign of induration is remarked, it signifies that the 
animal has suffered from the abuse of the bit. If on any limited space, 
however small, a patch of white skin is observed located upon a dark 
ground, it denotes that " once upon a time " the true skin has been re- 
moved from that place, while cicatrix now exists to apprise future pur- 
chasers of the fact. If anything like a hardened lump should be felt in 
this situation, it demonstrates that the quadruped has a hard mouth, and 
is an obstinate puller, or that it has passed through the hands of an un- 
feeling master. 

In either case, the creature is not a desirable possession. Harshness 
is not a kindly educator, nor does it beget docility of spirit in the being 
which is subjected to its exactions. A hard mouth necessitates one of 
the severest trials which can be inflicted on a horse proprietor. It is 
painful, every time a change of direction is desired, for the rider to tug 
at the reins ; such a necessity soon destroys every pleasure of the exer- 
cise. But a regular puller is always a dangerous servant. Generally it 
turns out to be a "bolter," and, before running away, will seize the bit 
between its teeth, when the driver or the rider alike is helpless. Our 
entreaty to the reader is, to turn his back upon the offer, should he ever 
be solicited to buy a horse having a damaged mouth. 

At this point it is requisite the author should review the various 
organs which, together, constitute the head. An activity equally re- 
moved from stillness and from restlessness, denotes health to be present 
in all the seats of special sense. These things are of more importance 
than at first glance is apparent, because such united testimony is the 
best security as regards the general system. It equally testifies to the 
soundness of the brain and to the healthiness of the body. When the 
animal suffers, the perceptions mostly are inactive ; when the brain is 
oppressed, the loss of sense first announces the disorder. 

These organs also deserve attention for their own sakes. Man is not 
gifted with remarkable faculties either in seeing, in hearing, or in smell- 
ing. He therefore desires such assistance as the companion of his jour- 
ney may afford. The value, consequently, of an animal is materially 
deteriorated by the loss of any of its protective powers. These, when 
all enjoyed in perfection, assist one another. When any organ is excited, 
the rest are seldom dormant. Thus when the quadruped perceives in 
the distance some obscure object, the ears are advanced and the nostrils 



POINTS. 399 

are inflated. The same general movement is remarked whenever the 
hearing catches a distant sound, or whenever tlie scent detects a novel 
odor. All are conjoined to produce one result ; therefore the loss of one 
cannot be without effect upon the uniformity of action. 

As regards the formation of the countenance, an enlarged cranium is 
no detriment; but the Roman nose sometimes interferes with the ca- 
pacity of the nostril. When it produces such a result, the peculiarity 
warrants either a reduction of price or an absolute rejection of the offered 
sale. In other respects, this make is regarded as of no importance ; but 
it certainly does not add to the appearance of the animal. Horses are 
generally prized in proportion to their beauty : nor can the author quar- 
rel with such a foundation of judgment, as, in most animals, harmony 
of figure justifies a belief that excellence of spirit also exists. 

The nostrils, however, are associated with the important function of 
respiration ; therefore these organs demand consideration, when regarded 
apart from the other senses. They admit the air which is inhaled by the 
expansion of the chest ; consequently the dimension of the nostrils al- 
lows an inference to be drawn as to the capacity of the lungs. This 
opinion, however, should be only advanced after the alteration has been 
noted between their size when at rest and their enlargement when ex- 
cited. Should no marked variation be produced by the opposite states, 
then the value of the animal is only to be considered in connection with 
slow work, as the speed must be regulated by the capability of receiving 
a quantity of vital air proportioned to the power exerted. 

After the capacity has been observed, the nature of the movements 
of the nasal openings should be noticed. Subsequent to exertion, ease 
of motion is not to be anticipated ; but nothing approaching to spas- 
modic action should be remarked. The nostrils ought to be regularly 
expanded : not to fly open with a jerk, or to suddenly enlarge their form, 
as under the influence of a gasp. A capability of dilatation, attended 
with an evenness of motion, however fast the movement may be, are 
the points which should be looked for in the nostrils of a horse, — because 
the characteristic changes attending inhalation best expose any defect in 
the respiratory apparatus ; for, by such a test, the remotest disposition 
to become a roarer, or to exhibit diseased wind, is easy of detection. 

Connected with the head, every horseman comprehends how much 
width of channel, or of space between the branches of the lower jaw, is 
to be desired. The reason why such a form is highly prized in an 
animal of fleetness or of exertion, is because such an opening allows room 
for the varied movements necessary for the offices of respiration, or for 
the change of position imperative in the larynx, which is located near to 
or within the hollow thus provided. Clear space is of course impera- 



400 POINTS. 

tive, wherever rapidity of movement has to be executed. There is also 
another thing equally desirable. That addition is a full development of 
the motor power which affects the larynx. 




WIDE AND NARROW CHANNELS. 



This last point has never been sought for, although the writer has seen 
it prominently exhibited in some animals. Wherever it has been beheld, 
the author has confidently pronounced the high character of the quad- 
ruped ; he has not, in a single instance, been mistaken in his conclusion. 
The muscles which are attached to the spur process of os hyoides, or to 
the bone which regulates the movement of the larynx, when well de- 
veloped, are discernible in the living animal. They form a kind of indi- 
cation as though nature was half disposed to invest the animal with a 




^W>'^' 



PROMINENT DETBLOPMENT OP THE HTOIDEAL MUSCLES. 



miniature dew-lap. They lead the muscles of the neck perceptibly more 
forward than these agents run in the majority of horses, and in some 
specimens they may, with a little manipulation, be traced almost to the 
point of their insertion. 



POINTS. 401 

The muscles last alluded to all originate from the trunk, the more for- 
ward cavity of which is known as the chest. There is much dispute 
concerning the best form of the horse's thorax ; but such a question can 
only be decided by the uses to which the animal is to be subservient. 
For instance, beldw is inserted the illustration of a cart horse with an 
almost circular chest. Such a form permits the presence of a huge pair 
of lungs, and favors the increase of weight. 




A CAET HORSE. 



Sufficient oxygen is always present to convert the starch or the sugar 
of the food into fat : during slow work, enough of atmosphere to vitalize 
the blood must be inhaled, nor is excessive exertion calculated to mate- 
rially increase the amount. Where weight is more desired than activity, 
where propulsion is to be chiefly accomplished by bringing the heavy 
carcass to bear against the collar, such a make is admirable. All creat- 
ures, in which speed is not required, should possess circular chests ; for 
by such a shape the quadrupeds are adapted for the accumulation of fat, 
and for the performance of slow, of continuous, or of laborious work. 

There are, however, numerous animals which are required to possess 
capability for a "burst;" for the acme of which phrase is embodied in 
the rush or the closing struggle of the race-course. The creature of 
speed, therefore, should exhibit rather the deep than the round thorax ; 
for fat is not desired on such an animal. The deep cavity, moreover, 
admits of an expansibility which is imperative during the extremity of 
mi^scular exertion. It is, however, sad to see well-bred animals in and 
about the metropolis forced to pull carts, for which employment nature 
has unfitted them. They possess no weight of body with which to move 
the load. The burden must be propelled by the almost unaided power 

26 



402 



POINTS. 



of the muscles. The limbs, strained by the constant necessity of the 
position, soon become crippled, while excessive labor causes the flesh to 
waste ; hence the miserable objects which are sometimes witnessed toil- 
ing along the thoroughfares of the metropolis. 

PIAGBAM8, ILLUSTRATING THE PIFFEEENT CAPACITIES OP THE OPPOSITE FORMATIONS OF THORAX. 




1 d B 




THE THORAX OP A CART HORSE. 



THE THORAX OF A BLOOD HORSE. 



A A. The capacities of the two chests in the quiet conditiou. 

B B, B B, The limits of expansibility in each, when excited. 

cc,cc. The outside of the coat in the quiet condition. 

dd,dd. The surface of the bodv in the excited state. 



To render the above facts comprehensible to the generality of readers, 
let it be granted that the lungs of the cart and of the blood horse, when 
expanded to the uttermost, would occupy the like space. When not ex- 
cited, or both being of the normal size, the respiratory apparatus of the 
coarser breed is by far the larger of the two. In the passive condition, 
the heavy quadruped inhales much more oxygen than is needed to vivify 
the blood. The excess is, therefore, appropriated by the food and nour- 
ishes the frame ; hence dray horses have a tendency to become fat. On 
the contrary, in the ordinary mood, the lungs of the thorough-bred re- 
ceive scarcely more air than is required to uphold vitality; therefore 
this kind of quadruped exhibits, as a general rule, no vast disposition 
toward excessive obesity. 

During all quickened movements, however, the action of the lungs 
and the speed of the circulation are much increased. The impetus 
given by motion to the vital fluid causes the detention in the lungs to 



POINTS. 



408 



be of a comparatively brief duration. The period of change is sliortened ; 
at tlie same time a larger absorption of the vivifying agent becomes 
absolutely imperative. The greater depth of chest in the racer admits 
of a greater change of dimension; then air is inhaled equal to the ra- 
pidity of movement. The pace, therefore, can be maintained with com- 
parative ease. But the round form of thorax allows of little enlargement : 
the demands made by exertion cannot be complied with, and the heavy 
horse, when hurried, is consequently soon exhausted. 

It is not, therefore, the size or dimension of its thorax which fits the 
steed to the purposes of fleetness. That quality depends on the adapt- 
ability of the cavity to the exigencies of excitement; for such purposes, 
the quadruped with a round chest is not to be preferred. At present 
there is no instrument by which the motions of the horse's ribs can be 
accurately ascertained : thus the reader is forced to guess at an altera- 
tion which cannot, under existing circumstances, be regarded with that 
confidence which is inspired by the knowledge of a fact. A quarter of 
an inch between the enlargement of the ribs in different animals (sup- 
posing the other points equal) should more than determine the winner 
of a race, since the change which takes place in the blood regulates the 
other properties of vitality. 

The belly and the chest are distinct cavities, although there is com- 
munication between the organs of each. Thus the great artery which 
originates at the heart, travels into the abdomen ; while the veins which 
traverse the larger division also penetrate the thorax. Nevertheless, 
the contents and the uses of each space are generally distinct. The 
principal agents of the more forward cavity are the heart and the lungs, 
the thorax being chiefly sacred to the purposes of respiration and of cir- 
culation. The liver, the stomach, the spleen, and the intestines are 
inclosed within the abdomen, the function of this region being engrossed 
by the offices of appropriation or by those of nutrition. 

Most judges admire the horse which presents a belly apparently well 
filled by its contents. Certainly this appears to be the soundest of the 
many prejudices which appertain to horse flesh. The shape of the thorax 
must, in no unimportant degree, regulate that of the abdomen, the two 
cavities being only parted by a fleshy screen denominated the diaphragm. 
The herring-gutted quadruped is commonly as deficient in the respiratory 
as it is wanting in the nutritive functions. Of course this rule is not 
absolute ; but a capacious thorax is required to counteract any absence 
in the process of nutrition. The animal which rapidly narrows toward 
the flank generally purges upon work, is commonly of a washy consti- 
tution, and usually possesses a bad appetite. Such a retainer will fre- 
quently spoil more fodder than it will consume ; while the little ^ten 



404 



POINTS. 



shall afford less support than the like amount would yield unto the 
majority of stabled animals. 




ESRRING-OUTTED HOUSE. 



Horses of the above conformation are soon found wanting in other 
respects. Narrowing toward the flank being accompanied with deficient 
quarters, enables them to slip through their body-clothes, and renders it 
difficult to retain a saddle in its proper situation. The groom may in 
vain give extra attention to the fastenings ; the dwindling form empow- 
ers little motion to displace the tightest of girths. The saddle always 
has an inclination to glide backward ; and the rider, when such an occur- 
rence happens, must be placed in no enviable position. 




COW-BELIIBD HORSE. 



Objection even to a greater extent is engendered by the opposite kind 
of abdomen, or by one which is known as "a cow-belly," or "a pot- 



POINTS. 405 

belly." Animals of this make always seem immatured, as though they 
had been brought into the world before the proper period, or had been 
forced to perform hard labor at too early an age : their legs are long ; 
their withers are low ; their muscles are mean ; their chests are narrow, 
and their countenances are distorted by a querulous expression. These 
unhappy creatures possess but little strength for work ; if made to travel 
fast, they are speedily blown. In the stable, they are greedy; when 
out of it, they are vicious. Many of their faults are to be attributed to 
disease, the digestive functions being invariably disordered. They axe 
worthless, or are " all too feeble " for harness ; while the enlarged belly, 
when favored by the motion of the limbs, renders retention of a saddle 
an utter impossibility. 

The legs of a horse, — these can hardly prove too short ; for brevity 
of limb is always an accompaniment to depth of chest and proportionablv 
powerful quarters. The long leg always attests to the light carcass: 
hence the motor agency of the limbs is deficient, while the cavities of 
respiration and of nutrition are necessarily diminished. A narrow 
thorax almost enforces low withers and an upright shoulder. The bone 
of the arm, or the humerus, is pushed into an undue slant by the for- 
ward position of the blade-bone, or of the scapula. This compels the 
front leg to stand too far under the body. Such an arrangement favors 
neither beauty, speed, nor safety ; in fact, it is one of the worst forms 
which the components of the frame are capable of assuming. 

The action of the shoulder-blade, during progression, is upward and 
backward, or it is drawn toward the highest processes of the withers. 
Low withers are, of course, opposed to ex- 
tended motion in such a line. The lessened 
action of the bone necessarily limits the move- 
ment of the structures which depend from it, 
or the action of the humerus is governed by 
that of the shoulder-blade.. The trivial motion 
permitted by low withers, therefore, limits the 
advance of the forearm, the parts being, as it 
were, tied together. The natural carriage of 
such a malformation is with the head and neck * straight shootder, showing 

THE POSITION OF THE BONES. 

protruded, so as to favor progression by strain 

upon the cervical muscles. At the same time the body inclines forward, 
which throws the limbs backward, or out of their proper situations ; and 
'rhis circumstance accounts for animals of this particular make so fre- 
quently encountering "accidents." 

The gait characteristic of an upright shoulder is very peculiar. A bad 
forehand is the most common defect witnessed in London thoroughfares. 




106 POINTS. 

In the metropolis of the world, it is indeed a rare sight to behold a car- 
riage drawn by a pair of really good animals. The quadrupeds in 
general use for such purposes are mostly faulty about the shoulders. 
The forehand is placed upon the trunk in too upright a position. The 
job master is conscious of this defect. He always endeavors to con- 
vince his patrons that such a make is advantageous, where a creature is 
designed for harness. Possibly the tradesman might succeed in per- 
suading his customers into a false belief, were not prejudice opposed to 
his suggestions. Ladies admire high action in the steeds attached to 
their vehicles; this is the kind of step which most of the horses just 
described are incapable of long exhibiting. 

Art or cruelty, however, can partially amend the faulty motion of the 
limbs. Force the head into an unnatural attitude by the unscrupulous 
employment of the bit or of the bearing-rein ; retain the neck erect, 
without regard to the cramp induced, or heed of the strain cast upon the 
muscles, — and the torture, although the life be shortened and the safety 
of the owner endangered, nevertheless may occasion the feet to be raised 
during progression. This fact is illustrated in the following engraving. 




SIAORAH, BHOWINO THE NATURAL ACTION APPERTAININQ TO A STRAIGHT SHOITLDEn, AND ALSO ILLUSTRAr 
TING THE CHANQB SOMETIMES OCCASIONED BY THE UNSCRUPULOUS EMPLOYMENT OF THE BIT OR OF THE 
BEABING-REIN. 

The natural mode of going is indicated by the letters A A ; the possible 
change of form is to be seen in the parts distinguished as B B, although 
the action there depicted certainly displays a most unusual degree of 
amendment, to induce which must shorten the existence. 



POINTS. 



40T 



Any such improvement is always procured at avast personal risk; 
for the head, being raised, partially throws the eyes out of use. It also 
impedes the circulation, ruins the mouth, distorts the body, and deranges 
the breathing. All these evils are inflicted to obtain the kind of pace 
which is never natural, but which closely resembles the sort of step that 
is characteristic of blindness in the horse. Few of the animals, thus 
treated, live to descend very low in the scale of equine existence. They 
mostly perish young ; but the reader may recognize them drawing the 
broughams of gentility, and too often presenting one of the cramped, 
forced, and uneasy paces which are depicted below ; for into such kinds 
of action all upon service ultimately subside. 




TERT FAULTT ACTIONS. 



On the other hand, the animal with a deep chest and with high 
withers, almost as a necessary adjunct, possesses a slanting shoulder; 
or, at all events, this probability is favored by that particular formation. 
Such an arrangement of parts must be accompanied by an upright 
position of the humerus and the advanced location of the fore limb. 
This conformation is bettered, materially, by an arched crest and a head 
"well set on." Unfortunately, these latter points are seldom encoun- 
tered, the proper disposition of the fore quarter being rarely attended 
with the last-named grace. 

Such horses, however, Stubbs, the animal painter, used to dehneate. 
Either the artist was pai'ticularly fortunate in his models, or beauty has 
been sacrificed in the anxiety to breed other properties. Such horses 
appear to have been common in England when the racer was compelled 
to possess endurance, and if report be truth, the last animals exhibited 
a greater speed than their descendants can display. Hunters were for- 
merly something better than the rejected of the course ; they could show 
a beauty equal to their strength. Creatures with the forehand such as 
has been described, are not only more pleasant to contemplate, but they 
are also capable of working with far less exhaustion to the system. 



408 



POINTS. 



With a front limb of this nature, the movements of the leg are regu- 
lated by that of the shoulder. When the blade-bone is drawn upward, 
the humerus leaves its almost erect position, and assumes a forward in- 
clination. This causes the arm to be advanced, and propels the leg and 
foot. Thus the movement of a part governs the motion of the whole : 
a grace or harmony of action is the result. The various components of 
the member change their relative positions to one another without effort, 
but with evident intention; all parts of the limb are simultaneously 
advanced. The work is not cast upon one set of muscles to the injury 
of another region. A well-made animal is one perfect whole, and for- 
merly was common throughout the land. People may sigh that such 
quadrupeds are now lost to the nation : this regret, however, does not 
accord with the folly that upholds the racing mania, which has engulfed 
the once-prized native breed of English horses. 





A SLANTING SHOULDER, SHOWING THE 
POSITION OP THE BONES. 



A SLANTING SHOULDER IN ACTION. 



The articulated skeletons which are exhibited in museums present 
but poor resemblances of the living framework as it is arranged by the 
hand of nature. In these artificial preparations, the fore limbs are 
always straight, as are the supports of a kitchen table. But contem- 
plate the living example. The positive perpendicular is never observed. 
The member abounds in gracefully swelling prominences and admirably 
poised inclines. The chest may be wide ; but the hoofs are placed close 
together. Such a necessity renders an erect line an impossibility. Try 
the same rule in another direction. Let a plummet be dropped from the 
point of the shoulder of a living and well-made animal ; it will mark the 



POINTS. 409 

limit to which the toe is extended when the healthy horse is resting the 
limb. Such a fact proves the sheer upright form of the member to be 
an unnatural distortion and a positive impossibility. 





DIAGRAMS OF BONES WITHIN THE HORSE'S FORELEG. 



The importance of the shoulder and of the arm bone having been 
enlarged upon, there remains to direct the reader's attention toward that 
which in general acceptance constitutes the forearm, as well as the knee, 
the leg or the shin, the pastern and the foot. Where the limb quits the 
trunk, it should be characterized by muscular developments, since at this 
place resides the chief of that power by which the lower portions of 
the member are directed-. The flesh should bulge forth, and cannot be 
too abundant; for a thin forearm is incompatible with goodness in a 
horse. 

The point of the elbow should be prominently emphasized, as this 
bone affords a leverage whence many influential muscles originate, and 
which some of the principal flexor agents directly operate upon. To- 
ward the knee the swelling should gradually subside, leaving upon the 
surface of the joint a broad, clean, and firm appearance. At the back 
of the knee there should stand forth, or rather should stick out, an osse- 
ous point, the size of which is of every value. Its aspect may not please 
the inexperienced fancies of the boy; but the uses of this development 



410 



POINTS. 



are, in no little degree, governed by its magnitude. It affords a point of 
insertion to the short flexors of the limb, as well as gives shelter to the 
perforans and perforatus tendons in their passage toward the pastern 
and the foot. Its magnitude, therefore, not only favors muscular action, 
but also indicates the dimension of thos^ important stractures which this 
bone protects. 

The forearm should be long; the shin ought to be comparatively 
short. The reach depends on the first, the length of which secures an 
extra amount of motor activity. No muscles of importance are located 
upon the shin : bone and tendon are the principal components of this 
region. The part should not be absolutely straight, for such a form is 
incompatible with all idea of living beauty; but at the same time it 



INCLINATIONS OF THE PASTERNS. 





A LONG AND SLANTING PASTEEN. 



A NATURAL PASTEBN. 





AN UPRIGHT PASTERN. 



AN OVERSHOT PASTEBN. 



ought to present no obvious inequalities or sudden enlargements. The 
bone should be compact, giving to this portion of the limb, when viewed 
from the front, almost the appearance of being deficient in bulk; but 
when regarded from the side, the lower part of the leg cannot be too 
broad ; for breadth and strength are here synonymous. 



POINTS. 



411 



The above rule applies with equal stringency to both legs, — ^to the 
hind limb below the hock as well as the more forward member from the 
knee downward. Each should be thin, when viewed from the front. 
Neither can well be too deep, when seen from the side. Both should 
appear solid, and each should feel almost of metallic hardness. The 
pastern-joint should not present a level surface, when viewed laterally ; 
and as it proceeds downward to join the foot, a graduated enlargement 
should exist. 

Much comment is usually indulged upon the horse's pastern. The 
degree in which this part may or may not slope, has been authoritatively 
defined. The reader will best judge of these opinions, by considering 
the purposes for which the pastern was created. Its intention is to 
endow the tread with elasticity. The fetlock of a racer, when the ani- 
mal trots, may be seen to touch the earth every time the weight rests 
upon the foot: nevertheless, the thorough-bred has, during the conten- 
tion, to endure the very excess of action. There must, therefore, be 
something erroneous in the popular judgment which connects weakness 
with the motion of this part, or no racer could ever reach the goal ; and 
if a quadruped does occasionally break down, the likelihood of such a 
misfortune is not regulated or to be foretold by the pliability of the 
pastern-joint. However, that the reader may estimate the value of the 
prejudice, various pasterns, designed according to the general phrase- 
ology, have been submitted to his inspection. 

To enable the purchaser to arrive at a sound decision, it is necessary 
to state that the inclination of this region is governed by the major 





flexor tendons which are situated underneath or behind them. Their 
slanting, therefore, is regulated by no peculiarity in the forms of the 
bones themselves, but is controlled by and dependent upon the condition 
of another structure. A short, upright pastern, if it can bear any evi- 
dence at all, testifies to a stubborn and unyielding state of the great 



412 POINTS. 

flexor muscles, the weight being then thrown upon the osseous supports. 
The play of the pastern denotes nothing more than the healthy elasticity 
of the flesh upon the tendon proper t<f which the osseous structures 
repose. The bones have no motor power belonging to themselves. The 
upright and the overshot pastern suggest no change in the more solid 
frame ; but such alterations prove that excessive work has strained the 
great flexors of the limb, and destroyed the inherent property of elasticity 
with which every muscle is endowed by nature. The burden being then 
supported by an osseous pillar instead of an elastic band, of course jar 
or concussion ensues upon the abnormal change. 

Thus, alteration in the natural position of an oblique bone is of great 
importance to a purchaser ; and to judge properly of the pastern-joint, the 
substance swelling forth beneath the elbow must be regarded. Should 
this portion of the body be mean or wanting in development, hard work 
will probably induce it to become rigid, or labor may, ultimately, cause 
the pastern-joint to shoot forward and out of its proper situation. 

The flexor tendon likewise influences another part. The perforans is 
inserted into the sole of the coffin-bone, or into the bone of the foot. 
The direction in which the toes point is, therefore, regulated by a sub- 
stance so far distant that the attempt to connect the two organs may, to 
the uninformed mind, seem somewhat ridiculous. Yet, the statement 
being correct, the fact renders the position of the elbow of more import- 
ance; for according to the situation of that bone the hoofs will be 
directed. Thus, an ulna or an elbow which is drawn toward the trunk 
will be attended with a toe inclined outward. When the bone turns 
from the body, the forward portion of the hoof is directed inward. 
When the framework is properly constructed, the hoofs point forward ; 
for horses' hoofs are liable to those derangements which the human foot 
exhibits, and generally with like results. Only, in man, striking one 
leg against the other, during progression, is not attended with the unfor- 
tunate consequences which such an occurrence often will induce when 
this accident happens to the quadruped. 

INCUNATIONS AND DEFECTS OF THE FEET, AS WELL AS SAMPLES OF ODD HOOFS. 




HOOFS POINTING FORWARD. HOOFS POINTING OUTWARD. HOOFS POINTING INWARD. 

By the pasterns recently exhibited it will have been observed that the 
inclination of the bones influences the slant of the hoof. The two 



POINTS. 413 

structures are so connected one with the other that neither can be 
independent, for the direction of the pastern, of course, determines the 
nature of the weight imposed upon the foot. Thus, should the foot re- 
ceive more than a normal pressure, this circumstance, by throwing the 
weight upon the bones, occasions the muscles to contract, and produces 
upright or overshot fetlock-joint. Nevertheless, the hoof is operated 
upon by other agency. Diseased action will also interfere with the 
growth of its outward covering. The member may, under such injurious 
excitement, when long continued, eventually become deformed. 

The place of birth also influences the horn. Thus, a quadruped brought 
up on the fens of Lincolnshire, generally displays a flat sole, a weak, a 
low, and a slanting crust. The horse whose native land is dry or sandy, 
mostly exhibits the hoof high in the quarter and thick in its incasement. 
The creature with feet of the intermediate sort, which a few years ago 
were esteemed the model form, is generally the inhabitant of a moist, 
but not of a wet district. The horn, therefore, is indirect evidence of 
the rearing ; and the author has now to consider how far its condition 
can, by itself, be regarded as a positive proof of any other fact. 

There is one defect not generally observed, but which should always 
be studied in every examination of the feet. It may surprise the reader, 
when the author declares it to be very far from an uncommon circum- 
stance to encounter a horse with odd hoofs, or with feet of different sizes. 
Such a peculiarity is totally independent of the defective inclination of 
the toes, and may be seen in horn of any possible condition, or in feet 
of any variety of form. 

An animal becomes lame in the foot. If the lameness is removed in 
reasonable time, the affection disappears, and leaves no trace behind it. 
But let it continue for months, and during such a period the sufferer will 
throw little or no weight upon the diseased member. The part will be 
rested. The purpose or function of the organ will be counteracted by 
the will of the animal. The consequence of long disuse will be a pro- 
portionate decrease in size. Upon recovery, the loss of bulk is seldom 
restored ; for if the foot is then employed, so also is the sound one ; and 
the action being equal, of course it does not particularly affect one ex- 
tremity, but operates on both alike. 

The difference in the feet may not be so startling as to enforce atten- 
tion to the deformity. It is seldom of this nature. Most probably it 
will require some discrimination to detect it. In the last engraving, the 
author endeavored to depict the defect as it was generally exhibited. 
None of the hoofs there delineated positively match, though very prob- 
ably the reader had not remarked their differences. However, the 
slightest disagreement is an accepted proof that disease has been pres- 



*^4 POINTS. 

ent, — tit what time, whether recently or long ago, of what nature, whether 
structural or functional, the examiner cannot tell : he, however, assumes 
lameness has existed, has endured for some period, and he fears that the 
organ which has been afflicted may retain a liabihty to repeated visita- 
tions of a similar misfortune. 

The so-called model foot is very liable to change, and not less likely 
to exhibit disease. It is very pretty to look at ; but it does not, as a 
rule, undergo much work without alteration. This opinion, however, 
must be regarded only as announcing a general law ; for though the in- 
telligent Mr. Bracy Clarke puts forth engravings illustrative of the effects 
which work produces upon the model foot, nevertheless the writer of the 
present volume has seen hoofs of this description which have, without 
apparent injury, endured constant shoeing, as well as perpetual battering 
upon the dreaded London pavement. 

The slanting crust, weak heels, and low soles are, however, not to be 
commended. These are among the worst points which the equine form 
can present, and they are too commonly the forerunners of sad internal 
disease, as ossified cartilages, sand crack, pumice foot, etc. 

After long reflection, the author must express a preference for the high 
or the stubborn hoof When doing this, he is consciously opposing his 
unsupported opinion against the firmly and repeatedly expressed judg- 
ment of his professional brethren. He therefore can ask no man to 
agree with his decision ; but he humbly requests the reader to peruse 
the grounds of his conviction, before hastily condemning its declaration. 

The horse is a native of a dry and an arid soil. Such a region in- 
duces that which the inhabitants of this country stigmatize as an excess 
of horn or an abnormally high sole. This kind of hoof therefore would 
appear to be natural to the animal : at all events, such a foot must have 
been general before the invention of iron shoes. Moreover, when the 
immense weight of the creature's carcass is considered, and the manner 
in which bearing is increased by speed is also properly regarded, a 
necessity for the stoutest hoof must be fully apparent. 

In addition to the above inferences, the author may advance his own 
observation, carefully made through a number of years : that all animals 
exhibiting strong crusts are not, necessarily, cripples; but that the 
creature with such a development of horn is in consequence less, infi- 
nitely less, liable to pedal derangements. The contrary conclusion has 
been upheld, because most men thought the excess of horn must check 
expansion, and also severely pinch the internal structures. With regard 
to the last deduction, all outward developments are produced by and are 
governed by the inward organs which these shelter. The secreting 
member may be soft, and the secreted substance may be hard ; still, by 



POINTS. 415 

a wise provision of nature, the tender structure rules the insensitive 
material which it produces. Therefore the horn cannot press upon or 
pinch the internal portions of the foot, any more than the skull can com- 
press the healthy brain which it protects. 

Then as to the supposed want of expansibility. The hoof may appear 
stubborn when between the human fingers; but while supporting the 
body of a horse, it is exposed to the operation of a force altogether 
greater than any which man is able to exert. The question therefore is 
not whether the hoof is very yielding, but whether it is so obdurate as 
to resist the huge weight of the animal when aiding the mechanical force 
of speed and the vital action of muscular power. 

The author, however, while making the above declaration, supposes 
form to be united with stoutness. Where the heels have become "wired 
in," and the crust has assumed the upright figure, the internal structures 
must be in an altered condition, and the points of bearing for the different 
portions of the limb must be entirely changed. The quarters in the last 
kind of foot are, frequently, remarkably stubborn. They are rather in- 
clined to crack than to expand. Such parts will not, by their innate 
elasticity, fly inward on the leg being raised from the ground, and thus 
regulate the amount of blood which shall be poured into the hoof; 
neither will they expand when the weight is cast upon the foot, and thus 
allow free egress to the current which is violently expelled in consequence 
of the superimposed burden driving the fluid upward. 

The upright hoof and narrow heels are, generally, all but unyielding. 
They have lost their natural function, and the harmony of the whole is 
destroyed. In consequence, the blood, instead of being expelled from 
the hoof, cannot escape from the pressure of the bony structures. The 
vessels within which the fluid circulates are not formed to sustain unin- 
jured so vast a burden. They I'upture under the weight ; hence this 
peculiar form of foot is commonly accompanied with corns. Therefore, 
because corns are a disease, and because disease, being once generated, 
is not in its course or duration to be prognosticated with certainty, an 
upright hoof and wired in quarters are decided unsoundness : although 
stoutness, simply considered, is rather a recommendation than a defect. 

The author may not dwell at greater length on this portion of his sub- 
ject; but those who desire further information may with advantage con- 
sult Miles's works upon the horse's foot, which are the best, the cheapest, 
and the most lucid books upon this topic in the English language. They 
are written in a style which the most unlettered may comprehend; but 
when recommending them, the author, in his own justification, may state 
that the views therein expressed frequently differ from those opinions 
which are contained in the present volume. 



416 POINTS. 

Looking back upon such portions of the frame as have formed the 
subject of the late remarks, there are certain points which are invariably 
present in every well-made animal. A very broad, full chest is advan- 
tageous for slow work ; but for slow work only. Where speed or activity 
is desired, depth of thorax is indispensable ; yet the cavity should not 
be narrow or the sides flat ; while the exterior of the ribs should appar- 
ently encircle sufficient space. The general contour should, moreover, 
excite no idea of fixedness : the part should convey a notion of its capa- 
bility for easy and for rapid alteration of magnitude. 

The abdomen should neither be large nor small. The exhibition of 
either failing announces a radical defect. The belly ought rather to 
gracefully continue the line of the chest, than by its protuberance, or the 
reverse, to enforce its existence specially upon the notice of the spectator. 
All may be considered right when the form ehcits no remark ; but when 
it challenges observation, the fact does not indicate that everything is as 
the purchaser could desire. 

The position and the muscularity of the shoulder are the main points 
in the forehand. With respect to the limbs, these should leave the body 
as though they were parts of its substance. They can hardly be too 
large where they emerge from the trunk ; and the forearm can scarcely 
be too long. The knee-joint should be broad and flat ; while the bone 
which projects forth posteriorly should be well pronounced and evenly 
situated. The shin should be hard to the touch, and broad, when viewed 
laterally. The leg should seem straight and strong; the feet standing 
close together, and the toes pointing in a forward direction, rather than 
inclining to the outward or to the inward direction. 

Such is a general view of organs, all of which are of equal^ import- 
ance. Breathing and digestion are such vital functions, it would be 
supererogation did the author pretend to point out their importance. 
It may be otherwise with the fore limbs. Their use is not popularly 
comprehended ; those members are exposed to numerous accidents and 
liable to many diseases. This predisposition is generally explained, by 
saying they are nearer to the heart than the hind legs are, and the 
straighter form is more favorable to a descent of the arterial current 
than ia the angularity of the posterior extremities ; therefore this por- 
tion of the frame is more open to acute afi'ections. 

The facts stated are certainly correct. So is the less freedom allowed 
to the forelegs, by confinement in and fastening the head to a manger in 
a stall. Such, however, is not the whole truth. There are other causes 
in operation. The province of the fore limb is to uphold the trunk. 
Thus, at all times, the member has to support no inconsiderable burden ; 
but when that load is increased by the weight of a rider or is augmented 



POINTS. 411 

by the drag of the collar, the tug of the shafts, and the generally pend 
ent position of the head, the reader may conjecture the force with which 
the limb must be driven to the earth, especially during any rapid in- 
crease of motion. 

The continued battering to which the leg is subjected naturally ex- 
poses it to much suffering, which the comparative fixedness in the stable 
greatly aggravates. As the uses are severe, so are its afflictions painful; 
and it hazards nothing to assert that very much of the sorrow which visits 
the animal is dependent upon the diseases or the accidents which are in- 
separable from these forward supports of the body and of the load. 

When, however, the person called upon to exercise a judgment in the 
purchase of a nag is so new to the subject as to be incapable of forming 
an opinion, there is one primary test which seldom deceives ; and upon 
the evidence thus evolved the merest tyro is fully qualified to pronounce. 
Let such a man mount the animal, and, when seated in the saddle, he 
can surely decide whether he appears to be close upon the neck or 
placed far behind upon the back. A well-made animal, by the inclina- 
tion of the shoulder and by the amplitude of the withers, forbids the 
forward location of its rider; whereas a worthless quadruped, by the 
lowness of the first dorsal spines and the upright position of the blade- 
bones, allows the rider almost to rest upon its neck — thereby, because 
of the greater weight to be supported by the front limbs, increasing the 
natural liability of the forward members to exhibit disease. 

The reason why such a formation should be specially noticed is, upon 
reflection, made apparent. The hind legs, by their greater motor power, 
always have a disposition to throw the weight upon the forward member. 
When this tendency is augmented by the burden on the back, the conse- 
quence must be a destruction of any approach to an equilibrium. 

The horse's body is, by nature, given four props — one at each corner 
of the trunk. But when a human load is lodged almost over the fore 
limb ; when the front leg is placed far behind the chest ; and when the 
head swings in advance, — all approach to a proportionate amount of 
burden is destroyed. The forward extremities then take a position 
almost in the middle of the substance, a proportionate incumbrance 
being removed from the posterior extremities. The hind members have 
less to do, and excessive duty is imposed upon the weaker organs, the 
motor machine being deprived of safety during progression. 

While on the back, the rider should ascertain the shoulders are of 
equal bulk, or have not suffered injury, and that the trunk is sufficiently 
developed to afford a secure grip for the thighs of the master. Many 
animals are so narrow as to necessitate sensible muscular • exertion on 
the part of an equestrian, and thus materially to detract from the pleasure 

2t 



418 



POINTS. 



of horse exercise. This matter is the more important, because stoutness 
of the body allows a fair inference to be drawn as to the substance of 
the haunches. It is true, no absolute law may therefrom be deduced ; 
but as expectation is warranted, the fact should always be remarked 




A RIDER HAVING PLENTY BEFORE HIM WHEN 
IN THE SADDLE. 



A RIDER CLOSE OX THE NKCK WHEN 
IN THE SADDLE. 



The haunch is that portion of the frame upon which a capability for 
work is chiefly dependent. This region, therefore, should appear to be 
the embodiment of strength. It should not seem soft, or invite those 
pats which inexperienced horsemen are fond of administering to this 
portion of the body, but the aspect ought rather to suggest firmness and 
power ; for here resides the force which must propel the load or direct 
the bound. Always choose an animal with good haunches, and invari- 
ably regard the position of the tail ; as the situation of the dock, when 
on a line with the back-bone, denotes the greatest possible length, and 
therefore the largest amount of muscular activity to be present. 

Never purchase a horse which is recommended as fully equal to carry 
your weight; for the dealer who asserts this is, by his interest in the 
sale, incapacitated from forming a just opinion. But ostensibly appear 
to seek a horse for a friend — never for yourself — and state the nominal 
owner to ride at least four if not six stone heavier than the would-be 
purchaser. There is a saying, that an animal will run away with too 
light a load ; but that assertion is mere nonsense. Most vicious quad- 
rupeds are weakly creatures. The powerful frame is generally united to 
an even temper. Strength does not endanger the female equestrian, 
although ladies generally are mounted upon the best-made, the strongest, 
and the most valuable steeds. Indeed, this argument is never urged, 
save when a gentleman hesitates to accept a weakly quadruped, or 



POINTS. 



419 




A COARSE-BRED HAUNCH. 



desires to obtain the one which the dealer is not very anxious should 
be purchased. 

In illustration of this subject an engraving is inserted, which repre- 
sents better-made quarters than are commonly beheld on a native or 
coarsely-bred animal. But the reader can 
hardly fail to remark that though the devel- 
opments are not deficient in width, yet the 
general aspect rather denotes softness than 
expresses strength or suggests determination. 
The tail is well set on for this kind of quad- 
ruped ; still, the point of the rump-bone is 
not even indicated. The spectator must 
guess at its precise location, as he cannot, by 
the unaided vision, detect its exact situation. 
Bulk is not absent, yet that which should be 
its attendant is not prominent. The bones 
of the leg seem long, but the hocks are not remarkable for size or con- 
spicuous for form. The limbs are not moved with that independence of 
action which gives to the step of the horse its air of resolution, but they 
are advanced as though one was timid of proceeding too far without the 
other. 

Yet, the inquirer may journey long and travel far before he will meet 
the equal of the quarters here depicted. The generality of these parts, 
on the animals of the coarser breed, are much narrower; the tail is 
seldom encountered springing from a position so near to the level of 
the spine ; while, short as the extent of the posterior muscles may 
appear in the previous illustration, these are frequently to be seen of 
more circumscribed dimensions. 

In contrast to the foregoing, the accom- 
panying engraving depicts the quarters of a 
blood horse. In this illustration, symmetry 
and beauty are equally preserved ; but, with 
these qualities, also are blended other attri- 
butes, which ennoble and elevate the object. 
Strength, power, and determination are im- 
pressed upon the image. Every muscle goes 
direct to the part on which it operates. The 
posterior line, on being traced from the dock 
to the leg, does not seem to hesitate between 
the bone of the member and the stifle-joint. 

The leg itself is thicker, but its greater substance depends upon the 
presence of muscle. The hock is cleaner, and uses of the part are better 




A THOROUUil-LRtD HAUNCH. 



420 POINTS. 

characterized. The calcis, as the backward projection is technically 
termed, stands forth prominently and affords the greater leverage for the 
motor agents to act upon. 

When the quarters of the two breeds are contrasted, the difference is 
found to be extreme ; the pervading attributes of each characterizes the 
innate qualities of the animal to which the part belonged. The distinc- 
tions which divide the two are by these members well indicated. There 
was, some time back, a loud discussion as to what kind of horse was 
best fitted for ordinary purposes. The old staging days should have 
settled such a question ; for then fast coaches found the employment of 
the nobler quadrupeds to their interest. Where slow and heavy propul- 
sion is desired, the coarser animal is infinitely to be preferred. For all 
the gentler purposes of society, the thorough-bred is, in the author's 
opinion, to be recommended. Only, these fine creatures should be prop- 
erly reared ; they ought not, as now, to be produced with all the haste 
of greed, and cast upon the general public when found unsuited to the 
purposes for which they were generated. 

It is offensive, if not painful, to hear persons speak of certain horses 
as though particular quadrupeds were created only for special uses. A 
good horse is fit for nearly every purpose ; but such an animal is gen- 
erally employed for the saddle. A thorough-bred, with lofty and well- 
developed quarters, is too valuable not to be appropriated by the race- 
course. A blood, with so much bulk and stoutness as to indicate the 
qualities of endurance rather than of speed, is always destined to be- 
come a hunter. Horses of the purer breed are supposed not well suited 
for gentlemen's hacks. Good animals of this description are only too 
valuable for common purposes ; but no creature is, by its intelligence, its 
activity, its gracefulness or its beauty, so admirably qualified for the 
companionship of man as the noblest type of the equine race. 

The manner in which the racer trots is asserted to express the action 
which is natural to all of the thorough-breed. Before the reader agrees 
to that assertion, he should remember the trot is not a natural pace, nor 
one which the racer is broken to exhibit. Seen upon the course, the 
foot evidently moves too near the earth to clear the ruts of most Eng- 
lish highways. Yet, as there shown, the motion is not to be despised. 
During it, at each step the limbs are extended ; the reach is admirable, 
and affords a far better foundation for excellence in a hack than the 
up-and-down pounding motion which is so highly esteemed by the 
ignorant. 

The greatest possible speed, with the least possible amount of exer- 
tion, is secured by the thorough-bred trot. The ground is covered, while 
the pace is easy and pleasant to the rider. It is very opposite to that 



POINTS. 421 

which medical gentlemen occasionally recommend as a "hard-trotting 
horse." A child might. sit upon the back of a well-bred steed. The 
author recollects to have only seen one animal of this description em.- 
ployed as the riding companion of a gentleman. The master (a northern 
nobleman) was evidently proud of his possession ; for the hack abounded 
in energy and with fire. The life never appeared fresher in a colt ; but, 
on inspecting the teeth, the writer was pleasantly surprised to behold 
indications which denoted that at least twelve years had been passed. 
The following illustration will suggest to the inexperienced reader the 
more striking peculiarities which characterize the well-bred action. 




Any quadruped is supposed suited for the collar when it displays 
points which unfit it for the saddle. A prime saddle horse, however, 
always makes the best harness animal ; only, it is considered too valu- 
able for such a purpose. There is but one law which is absolute with 
draught horses. In them, the forelegs are pardoned a few faults ; but 
the hind quarters should always be powerful. That is desirable in all 
quadrupeds ; for draught of every kind it is essential ; it should never 
be overlooked, or the want of such a property ever be pardoned. 

There is another point of importance. Any gentleman purchasing a 
draught horse — no matter whether for cart, for carriage, or for phaeton 
— be it for any kind of vehicle, he should be certain, before the transfer 
is concluded, that the new possession stands high enough. Nothing 
looks worse than small horses before a tall carriage. The living power 
may be in excess — it can hardly appear too mighty — but an inch below 
the requisite size gives to the most elegant and the newest of "turn 
outs " a shabby and a mean appearance. The draught may be light ; 
the horses may not be overweighted; still, no fact or knowledge can 



422 



POINTS. 



recoii(;il6 the eye to the general effect, where animals are small for the 
machine to which they are harnessed. 

Of recent years there has been displayed a desire to infuse the East- 
ern blood into the heavier breed which is native to this country. The 
desire was commendable ; but its gratification has led only to evil. It 
has enabled the dregs of the race-course to be palmed off upon the pub- 
lic. A thin and lanky offshoot of thorough-bred stock can be of no value. 
These things should not be bought by gentlemen for any kind of service. 
The time has come, when it is simple prudence that the public should 
refuse longer to absorb the cast-offs of the stud farm. No doubt, before 
the breeding of blood stock became a general practice, the iu fusion of 
Eastern fire and activity was a national boon ; for a reference to engrav- 
ings of a few years back exhibits the animal suited only for a plow used 
as ladies' palfreys. The following copy from a figure, presented in the 
famous folio work by a former Duke of Newcastle, will give the reader 
some notion of the kind of horse once chosen to carry the fairest portion 
of creation in the British isles. 




LADT, HAVEINO. 



From the above illustration, which may be well supposed to embody 
the height of fashion and the cream of style shortly after the accession 
of Charles the Second, the reader can imagine the practical knowledge 



POINTS. 423 

possessed by those writers who speak of James the First as having 
greatly improved the native breed of horses, and quote the benefits 
conferred upon the national race by the more temperate but equally 
determined enthusiasm of Cromwell, operating in the same direction. 

At this place, the reader must have patience while the method of 
judging the limbs is pointed out. When the dealer exhibits an animal, 
the customer's eye always should endeavor to ascertain the bulk or sub- 
stance of the creature which he is expected to purchase. To do this, 
let the eye be directed toward the chest, to ascertain if the forelegs are 
separated by any breadth of thorax, or whether they spring from the 
body almost from the same point. This decided, a glance may be given 
to the line of the forelegs; these parts also can be viewed as the 
gentleman passes backward. Having reached the last situation, he ob- 
serves if the thighs are large and fleshy, keeping the legs well asunder ; 
also, whether the hocks are rightly placed, are huge, and are cleanly 
shaped. 

Such remarks are important, since the disposition to cut is generally 
decided by the width of the horse's trunk. Any deficiency in this re- 
spect indicates weakness, as well as declares a general unfitness for 
severe labor. This circumstance being observed, it is usual for the horse 
to be run up and down the ride. While the limbs are in motion, the 
spectator should notice the peculiarities of their carriage. A flexion of 
the front shin to the outer side warrants a belief in the existence of a 
splint. When the hind limb is not properly flexed, but the toe is allowed 
to graze the ground, it is a positive proof that the hock is disabled by 
the presence of a spavin. 

A worse evil, however, is, when the forelegs, during progression, 
crossing each other, the trot becomes a sort of "hand-over-hand" pace. 
This kind of action is accompanied by "speedy cut," or by a wound 
made upon one leg, immediately below the knee, with the shoe on the 
opposite foot. That defect justifies an instant rejection; for such a 
liability is incompatible with safety, as the blow too often brings the 
animal and its rider to the earth. The legs being close is the cause of 
"brushing" or of "cutting," — a most troublesome defect, which inflicts 
a wound considerably nearer to the ground than speedy cut. 

Before purchase, the hair on the inner side of the legs should be 
carefully examined. If a cicatrix or a bare spot is discovered near to 
the seat of cutting ; if any paint or coloring matter can be detected upon 
the part ; or if the hair does not lie perfectly smooth upon the place of 
injury, — have nothing to do with the animal. It is quite true that most 
fresh and nearly all young horses will cut — others strike only toward the 
end of a long journey ; but it is also true that particular horses, how- 



424 



POINTS. 



ever fresh or however tired they may be, never strike or cut. The 
quadruped which a gentleman desires, is one that does not contain evi- 
dences of a liability to accident or to disease. He wishes for a sound 




AN EXAGQEKATID VIEW OF A WEAK ANIMAL, WITH DANGEROUS ACTION. 



animal; and one disposed to strike certainly cannot, in the author's 
opinion, be so esteemed. Every man wants a horse for service; but the 
creature which may at any moment receive a wound that shall incapaci- 
tate, assuredly cannot be esteemed a serviceable possession, in any 
meaning of the words. 

While examining the legs, the gentleman should also notice the shoes 
upon the different feet. If these are rusty, the fact demonstrates that 
the horse has been wearing wet swabs, and has been long stationary in 
the stable. The circumstance is suspicious. In horse dealing a justifia- 
ble suspicion is always acted upon as an established fact. If the shoes 
are of rude make and much worn, it looks badly; and though it is no 
recommendation, it justifies no inference. But if the shoes be thicker at 



POINTS. 425 

one part than at another ; if the horse, being a nag, should wear verj 
high calkins ; if the toe be shortened, or one side of the metal is ob- 
viously narrowed, — it denotes precautions against clicking and against 
overreaching: the first being a most audible annoyance, which may lead 
to the forcible tearing away a fore shoe ; and the last causing a fearful* 
a terrible, and an incapacitating wound upon the heel of the foreleg 
Also, should the toe of the hind shoe be ground down, while the heel 
exhibits no obvious wear, the fact demonstrates the existence of a 
spavin. Either clicking, overreaching, or spavin is legitimate cause for 
rejection. 

The reader, from a perusal of the foregoing remarks, will comprehend 
a few of the difficulties which beset the purchaser of a horse ; and these 
may warn him, in some measure, of the dangers that surround a person 
so engaged. The author is a veterinary surgeon, of some experience; 
but he would be very sorry to buy a steed for himself upon his unsup- 
ported opinion. He would always have the animal examined by a pro- 
fessional man ere the purchase was concluded. How greatly, therefore, 
must the general public stand in need of such protection ! Especially 
when the known hazard of the transaction and the confusion necessarily 
accompanying a direct personal interest in the business help to confound 
the intellect and to overpower the judgment 1 

All persons complain of the roguery that is mixed up with horse 
dealing. The complaint is just; but it is not just that the public should 
vent it. It is the general abuse and the inhuman treatment to which 
animal life is subjected that renders such practices necessary. The cru- 
elty and the roguery are associated as closely as cause and effect. Let 
the provocative be discarded, and its result, of course, must cease. But 
no man should blame the conduct which his own deeds have willfully 
generated. To hurt and to injure a patient and an obedient animal is a 
positive sin, — a violation of the trust confided by the Creator to the 
creature. To defraud, in a money transaction, is simply a crime, — an 
offense committed upon the laws by man established over man. Then, 
what right has he who violates one of the ordinizations of nature, to 
point at and to sigh over the person who merely breaks a human insti- 
tution ? 

Christianity, if its benefits were exemplified in man's actions toward 
the creatures living under his dominion, would immediately operate upon 
society. The horse, under better treatment, would of course not be lia- 
ble to those injuries and accidents which roguery in the dealer merely 
endeavors to conceal. There would be no occasion for cheating when 
the creature exhibited no scar or defect which' the seller was interested 
to hide or to deny. Thus one stain upon the present civilization would 



426 POINTS. 

be abolished ; for, notwithstanding the numerous assertions to the con^ 
trary, the author has yet to see the man who practiced dishonesty from 
a sheer love of iniquity. 

The well-to-do may lament the immorality of the class below them ; 
but if gentility would look less leniently upon itself, probably the exhibi- 
tion of crime might be viewed as no more than the apex of a pyramid 
whose base is deeply planted in the frailties which are common to gen- 
eral society. 



CHAPTER XIII. 

BEEEDING — ITS INCONSISTENCIES AND ITS DISAPPOINTMENTS. 

There are very dissimilar kind of horses produced in this country, tlie 
breeding of which concerns many different classes of proprietors, and al) 
of which are ushered into this world with most opposite formalities; 
therefore no author may pretend he is qualified to write about every de- 
scription of animal, with any air of authority. The person, however, 
who has long thought upon the subject, and who, by education, is 
fitted to arrive at a just opinion, may reach a conclusion which, with- 
out appealing to the prejudices or interfering with the mysteries of 
any particular class, nevertheless shall, in its decision, apply with equal 
force to the entire body. 

The writer states thus much, because, though not absolutely without 
experience, he yet can put forth no pretension to be specially initiated 
into those practices and tricks which ignorant people suppose to be re- 
quisite for the essential regulation of particular affairs. Neither does he 
aspire to be esteemed a proficient in jockeyship, which the public appear 
to imagine involves everything concerning the equine race. The follow- 
ing pages are indited by an individual who, fond of the subject, and in- 
structed as a veterinarian, has now attained an age when the mind 
should be equally above the errors natural to schools and the supersti 
tious, which appear to be inseparable from general society. 

There is one fault which is exemplified with the like strength by all 
parties who, in England, assume they understand the breeding of horses. 
Every proprietor, when so engaged, endeavors to render the mare sub- 
servient to two or to three distinct uses. All will burn the candle at 
both ends ; then the public sympathizers raise a loud exclamation be- 
cause such willful extravagance does not specially serve any economical 
or any useful purpose. Nobody dreams of propagating from an animal 
until its body has been injured and its vitality has been weakened by 
services rendered to an exacting master. The results which labor can 
impress upon a living organism may be observed emphasized upon the 
manufacturing classes of Great Britain ; but much as has been published 

(42t) 



428 BREEDING. 

concerning the cruelty which man can practice on his fellow-man, such 
inhumanity cannot be compared with the torments which are, openly 
and without a sense of wrong-doing, inflicted upon the dumb existence 
that cannot plead its wrongs, and which the social code even permits to 
be maltreated. 

There may be an enactment applicable to extreme cases ; but the most 
acute anguish no statute touches. Where the law is operative, death is 
always near the extremity which mortal justice condescends to relieve. 
To prevent extraordinary agony, is not to soften the general treatment. 
No man hitherto has conceived there can be any outrage committed 
upon charity by breeding from the body which, through a life of service, 
had earned a right to rest. But most horse proprietors only "throw up " 
the animal they intend should perpetuate its race, after strains and pains 
have rendered longer life a larger misery. Work, in this land, appears 
with quadrupeds to be esteemed a necessary preparation for "the stud." 
No one in this country, famous throughout the world for its breed of 
horses, seems to be endowed with any distant conception of the age 
which fits the body for the reproduction of its kind ; but all appear to 
imagine the period is any time after the capacity for toil has diminished. 
What a comment is, by the custom, promulgated upon the Christianity 
which, after more than eighteen hundred years of doctrine, the inhabit- 
ants of many places besides Great Britain may point to in illustration of 
their belief! 

Bodies crippled by too early labor, or carcasses disabled by disease, 
are generally found among the breeding stud of a modern establishment. 
The foals of nearly all breeds are injured before the little creatures see 
the light; it is, therefore, no matter for surprise that a breeding mare is, 
by the majority of farmers, esteemed to be a losing concern. In the 
case of blood stock, both sire and dam are submitted to the trainers' pro- 
cesses ere the second stage of equine babyhood has been perfected. 
Certainly where an amusement is pursued with a reckless defiance of 
economy, a little longer grace might be accorded to the animals employed 
to promote it ; or where the topmost prize is estimated not by tens but 
by thousands, it might be prudent to speculate with a little forbearance 
for such a reward. 

Has it never occurred to a nobleman, or to any gentleman, that it 
might probably be as profitable to keep the most promising foals sacred 
to breeding purposes ; that, simply as a paying speculation, it might 
answer to do for the course what agriculturists have done for the land, — 
only with this difference, that whereas one desires bulk, the other should 
aim at courage, strength, and speed ? Animals, if well cared for, and 
never placed in the trainers' hands, would in all probability bring forth 



BREEDING. 429 

finer specimens of horse flesh than either their parents or their progeni- 
tors. These foals, being selected and kept apart until the sixth year, 
might generate young which should sweep the land; and a stud of 
" clippers " would, assuredly, prove a pretty private property. 

Such a plan includes much more care than is at present bestowed. 
The author well remembers, some years back, going through the straw 
yard of a "stud farm," in the depth of a severe winter. The place was 
covered with mares and their newly-born progeny. Separated only by 
a few open rails, was a flock of yearlings, whose staring coats and ragged 
manes told emphatically of exposure and of neglect. This should not 
be. The animals should, from their birth, be securely sheltered and 
liberally nurtured. He who first accomplishes this, would most probably 
convert that which at present is a hazardous speculation into a certain 
gain. 

How far a youth passed in running improves the reputation of some 
quadrupeds, is well known ; but how far it is a good preparation for the 
offices of paternity, is exemplified by most blood mares and stallions be- 
coming famous through their progeny only after years of repose have 
mitigated the chronic evils of their early life. Prejudice, however, takes 
no heed of such teaching ; but maintains the absolute necessity of proving 
both, before sire or dam are allowed to perpetuate their kind. The con- 
sequence of this system is shown in the deformed and the misshapen 
dwarfs which are now ruining the once-prized native breed of English 
horses. 

A huge error also distinguishes the plan adopted by most breeders 
for the general market. The prevailing opinion discards the compact 
and close-knit female, in favor of the long-backed and loose-bellied mare, 
which is praised as a "roomy" animal. But all the supposed advantages 
of this selection are more than counterbalanced by the food which is 
consumed during the months of gestation. A grass diet promotes 
dropsy, besides necessitating so much of the poor and watery nutriment 
to be swallowed that, before the quantity requisite to sustain life can be 
eaten, more than the difference of space between the shortest and the 
most expanded abdomen must be occupied. 

The stabled horse employs but a brief period of each day in feeding. 
The same animal, when turned into the field, nearly occupies both day 
and night collecting the food needed to satisfy the cravings of its appe- 
tite. This difference of habit is not explained away by stating that in 
the stable only so much sustenance is placed before the quadruped; 
whereas, when at grass, the produce grows on every side of the creature, 
which it is always at liberty to consume. Many an animal will not 
clear the manger ; therefore the quantity of food devoured in the field is 



430 



BREEDING. 



only to be accounted for by that opinion wliicli justly states grass to be 
a poor and innutritions sustenance. 

The distinction which divides the two kinds of provender is, perhaps, 
best shown by the condition which each produces. The horse supported by 
the concentrated nourishment of the stable is commonly, while the natural 
powers are uninjured, characterized by energy, by firmness of body, and by 
fineness of limb. Whereas the quadruped is seldom long an inhabitant of 
the fidd ere it becomes windy, loose, flabby, dropsical ; the walls of the ab- 
domen are unnaturally distended ; the digestive canal grows thin and pal- 
lid ; the belly becomes pendulous with fluid ; while worms crowd the intes- 
tines and bots cover the lining membrane of the stomach. All this takes 
place as the consequences which generally follow the act of turning out to 
grass. The animal in the field commonly performs no work ; but when 
within the stable is rarely idle. Stables are badly victualed, badly ven- 
tilated, and almost slaughter-houses to the majority of steeds. Yet in 
the cold and humid climate of England horses cannot thrive upon ex- 
posure. Some few may thus exist in an approach to the wild condi- 
tion; but these rapidly diminish in stature and soon become very 
shaggy coated. The sheltered horse, when driven forth, grows dull and 




BLOOD MARE AND FOAL. 



ragged; its coat stares; the spirit droops; the eye loses luster; the 
carriage grows mean; the legs fill; and the outcast often experiences 



BREEDING. 



431 



sucli a shock to the system as ruins its utility. While agricultural 
teams, which are mostly pastured, are not unseldom the victims of 
numerous diseases, as broken wind, etc. 

The common country sire probably is injured from an opposite cause. 
Its food, during the early months of spring, is generally of too stimu- 
lating a natui-e. These creatures are to be seen led about, very much 
too fat for the proper performance of their functions. Obesity in other 
animals does not increase fruitfulness, but rather suppresses its develop- 
ment; and the author can perceive no reason why the heavier horse 
should be an exception to a rule of almost universal application. Com- 
mon stallions, as beheld at fairs and markets, are weakened in order to 
please the ignorant farmers who employ these enervated animals to per- 
petuate the thews and muscles of the mart for English horses. 




ATTENDS AT FAIE8 AND ON MARKET DATS. 



From dams suffering under the consequences of an exhausted youth, 
injured by the consumption of an innutritions diet, and debased by the 
absence of that care and cleanliness which a northern climate makes 
imperative, is the common breed of English horses replenished. Stal- 
lions, however, afford a convincing proof that abundant food and perfect 
rest, when unaided, will not impart vigor to a debilitated system. Few 
racers are famed for their stock, till time, which weakens the powers of 
the body, has effaced the consequences of early training. 



432 BREEDING. 

From sires groaning under accumulation of fat, and of course equally- 
pining under deterioration of the muscles, enervated by sloth, excited 
by stimulants, weakened by age, or with constitutions broken by pre- 
mature exertions, are the claims of British thorough-breds at present 
maintained. 

What are the results of such a system ? Distances have to be short- 
ened. Many start; but few return, contesting the race. Ages have to 
be altered ; while boys have to assume the cap and the whip. Useless 
weights are sought to suit the failing strength ; but more animals break 
down in the training than come to the post. 

Yet racing is maintained, not for the amusement of a few, but to im- 
prove the national breed of horses/ How far does it answer its purpose ? 
Let the public markets testify, A stout hack is a rarity. Such an 
animal was once all but universal. A brougham horse — one looking 
fit to pull a house — was formerly to be found in every yard. Now Lon- 
don shall be searched through before the shadow of the original can be 
encountered ; when discovered, the price demanded will be far too heavy 
for the generality of purchasers. The horse flesh of England is becom- 
ing weedy under a forced system. Poor "bloods" are everywhere 
present. In the sphere to which this breed should be confined, a few 
foals are retained; but the majority are discarded. Many are born that 
do not return the first expense which called them into existence. Those 
rejected are to be seen drawing cabs, carrying riders, pulling carts, and 
performing every office, which is at once a proof of their utter want 
of value and the hollo wness of the pretense which perpetuates such 
degradation. 

The glut of worthless "bloods" serves to check the raising of the other 
and the better kind of animals. The refuse of the stud farm being dis- 
posed of to the highest bidder, so far keeps down the price of common 
horses that what are termed serviceable quadrupeds have become scarce 
throughout the land which once produced them in abundance. Thus 
blood stock is contaminating the native breed of the country. Even 
with particular breeds — or with the Cleveland bays — the horses which 
dragged the cumbrous vehicles of our ancestors are lost to the present 
generation. Carriages are built lighter ; but the animals, being nearly 
pure blood, lack strength and want substance. They are now a leggy, 
a washy, a soft species of creature, which gentlemen find it cheaper to 
hire than to buy ; while only by keeping a herd large enough to allow 
some to be nursed and others to rest, does any person find it profitable 
to retain these quadrupeds, even though the money paid for three years' 
loan should double the usual price given for an average pair of such poor 
and abject deformities. 



BREEDING. 433 

The consequence is, that many gentlemen drive small horses, while 
omnibus proprietors, etc. prefer the coarser breeds. People are now 
aware that the lesser size renders the purchase easier, enables the horses 
to last longer, while sickness is not only less frequent, but the consump- 
tion of fodder is altogether smaller in quantity. Carriages are now built 
of diminished height and of lighter draught ; therefore the expense of 
such a convenience is in many ways lessened. Indeed, the custom has 
become so general and has so many advantages to recommend it that 
dealers cannot afford to trade in Clevelands, the sale and the possession 
of which quadruped is, by the modern salesman, without a murmur 
relinquished to the job master. 

The entire system must be changed, or, while it continues, men should 
consult the Calendar only to learn what sire to avoid. The blood stock 
has been bred too fine : all the properties which formerly distinguished 
it are now deteriorated. As greyhounds were improved by being crossed 
by the bull-dog, so does the English racer demand the infusion of little 
"cocktail" into his lineage. The Jockey Club must not perpetuate the 
weakness of that animal which this society pretends to conserve. Dis- 
tances should be lengthened, weights increased, and ages made not to 
favor the maltreatment of mere foals. Nothing would do more to pro- 
mote an improvement in the breed of English horses than a stoical 
determination which should render useless the present abundant crop 
of "weeds." Sires should be chosen beca,use of their stamina, their 
make, their thews, their muscles, and their general soundness. The 
quadruped should be treated naturally; not enervated by first being 
trained, and then debilitated by being pampered. 

At the same time, that excessive obesity which is remarkable in all 
existing stallions of the ordinary breeds should be avoided; nor should 
the stimulants now in general use ever be employed. No animal should 
ever be kept in solitude and in darkness, as though its worth were de- 
pendent on the amount of mystery by which it can be surrounded. Such 
treatment is cruel; therefore it is needless. An entire horse is not, 
necessarily, a savage, though many, being spirited creatures, are made 
dangerous by the tricks played upon them and by the restraints to which 
they are needlessly subjected. In several countries emasculation is un- 
known. Though in India, native rudeness and European prejudice may 
engender ferocity, the author can boast of having made friends of animals 
that had undergone no deprivation ; and the memories of such friend- 
ships are cherished with something more than the recollections of mere 
equine gentleness. 

To illustrate this subject, the author must be pardoned if he intro- 
duces an incident which occurred to himself. He was of middle age 

28 



431 BREEDING. 

when he entered as a student at the Royal Veterinary College. His 
mind became confused by the new sort of companions which he encoun- 
tered ; by the novel objects which surrounded him ; and by the strange 
kind of knowledge he was required to master. This confusion was the 
greater, because previous habit in the writer had not rendered him 
familiar with horse flesh. An animal, therefore, was needed, so that 
reference might be made to its body for an explanation of the books 
which the pupil was expected to comprehend. At length, in the corner 
of a back yard was discovered a lonely, loose box. Inside there was a 
quadruped ; and to this place the volume was daily taken, with various 
morsels of bread or vegetable. Thus, between feeding, reading, examin- 
ing and caressing, many an afternoon was most pleasantly whiled away. 

It was necessary to indulge in certain intimate familiarities. Some- 
times to change the position of the animal, or to finger its lower extremi- 
ties. When doing this, the author possessed no jockeyship to protect 
him, neither was he conscious that any protection was necessary. He 
used to shut himself up with the companion of his studies; and the 
hours thus spent he now remembers as among the very happiest of his 
existence. 

More than a fortnight's leisure had been pleasantly occupied, when, as 
the writer was one afternoon stealing to the being which lightened the 
tedium of his studies, and was in the act of opening the door, a number 
of fellow-students detected him so engaged. "Mayhew! May hew !" 
the group shouted, as with one voice, "where are you going? Don't 
open that door! '.Yan Amburg' is there! He's a kicker and a biter! 
You'll be killed ! Don't open the door !" 

Van Amburg was the name of the thorough-bred racer, which had 
been sent to the College "for operation," because of its supposed ferocity. 
Yet I, a novice, had passed many an hour in its society, and assert I 
could not have desired a more gentle companion. We have often laid 
long together side by side ; or, as I reclined upon the straw, reading, the 
head would rest upon my shoulder, while a full stream of fragrant 
warmth would salute my cheek. Still, such a creature, so open to ad- 
vances, so grateful for little kindnesses, was a reputed savage ! Proba- 
bly its real disposition continued to be maligned, and remains now 
unknown, save only to him whose ignorance was made happier by a dis- 
covery of the truth. 

A training stable is not calculated to develop the true disposition of 
a high-spirited animal. A horse generally retains the character which 
is earned in such a place. When no longer running, but kept for 
"service," — boxed up and chained, debarred from all freedom of motion, 
highly fed, and teased to the performance of his office, — such a creature 



BREEDING. *^* 

cannot be good tempered, or long continue very sound. Such usage is 
parent to many an ailment and to many a disease ; but, nevertheless, 
when surrounded by mystery, the stallion may for years continue profita- 
ble to its proprietor. It may be the means of transmitting malformation 
to its descendants; yet the attendant who could best describe its real 
condition has, in the money which is always paid to the groom, a direct 
pecuniary interest to uphold the public ignorance. 

The thorough-bred mare fares even worse. The animal may get one 
or two feeds of corn each day; but its chief support is grass, which 
crams the viscera without satisfying the appetite or nourishing the body. 
The creature, when "thrown up" for stud purposes, exchanges an over- 
heated stable for an open shed. From the exhaustion generated by 
closeness, it has to endure the coldness of all but absolute exposure. 
The coat is no longer dressed ; the mane is left uncombed ; the animal 
gradually turns to a pottled deformity, the resemblance of which may be 
generally witnessed near to every gipsies' encampment. 

All animals which are intended to perpetuate their race should be 
comparatively young, and only subjected to such easy toil as will repay 
the difference between the stable and the field. The quadrupeds should 
be daily groomed, and ought to be supported by fodder of an extra nu- 
tritious character. Gentle labor and a warm, loose box will only keep 
the body in good health. When not required to work, the animal should 
be left at liberty to roam about a piece of bare pasture, especially during 
the night, when the flies are not abroad, and when the vision of the 
horse enables it to move with perfect safety. 

This treatment should be continued almost to the time of foaling; 
when the period is very near, three weeks or a month of perfect rest may 
be accorded,' duration being regulated by the condition of the animal. 
Kest, however, does not imply that the expected mother is to be turned 
into a straw yard, or is to be exposed to the inclemency of the season. 
One month subsequent to birth, the work may be gradually resumed ; 
but the mare and her foal should not yet be made to travel on the high- 
roads. The little life may, in the fields, safely gambol by its parent's 
side. The exercise will benefit the youngster, while its eye will become 
accustomed to the toil with which it will have to be associated hereafter. 
But the tender hoof of the newly born is not, at the expiration of the 
fourth week, so formed or so hardened as to endure the grate of the 
common highways, although the feet may sustain the wear consequent 
upon moving over meadow land. 

The foal, before it saw the light, would be sustained by the good food 
consumed by its mother; the mare would not, by gentle work, be so 
lowered as to unfit the quadruped for the offices of maternity. By se- 



436 



BREEDING. 



lecting llie jobs to be executed, these need not require greater exertion 
than would bb necessitated by healthful exercise. Thus a suggestion, 
which to many minds may appear a heartless exaction, being explained, 
becomes no more than a conservative recreation. Something of the kind 
is needed, because gestation and lactation naturally dispose to sloth, and 
half the danger of parturition springs from the debility which idleness 
engenders. 




THE MANNER IX WUICH A MARE MAY EARN IIS KEEP, DURING THE PERIOD OF LACTATION. 



To render this subject more easily understood, let the reader ask the 
family medical attendant who is blest with the strongest child — the 
wealthy lady, who can afford to repose throughout the day upon a sofa, 
or the tradesman's wife, who is necessitated to bustle about, and to assist 
in the lighter portions of the household duties ? Or, if a more direct 
illustration be needed, it is afforded by the contrast presented between 
the swarming cabin of an Irish laborer and the often heirless mansion 
of the English aristocrat. 

Were such a custom only pi*evalent as has been indicated, those 
"stud farms," where mares are taken in and confined in the straw yard, 
with newly-born foals by their sides, would be thrown out of use. The 
animal, being daily harnessed, would be constantly inspected. There is 
always plenty of light employment for one horse, if a farm be kept in 
order. These odd jobs are now either neglected altogether, or are suf- 



BREEDING. 437 

fered to accumulate until a wagon-load of rubbish encumbers the soil. 
To remove such heaps and obstructions from time to time, the mare and 
a boy might be profitably engaged, doing quite work enough to pay for 
corn and to recompense for grooming. The necessary handling would 
prevent that condition of semi-wildness into which too many mares de- 
generate; while the nature of the labor would not render it profitable 
for a proprietor of land to keep more than one quadruped for breeding, 
which is the number that most farmers could find leisure to attend to 
without neglecting other things. 

In the author's opinion, the measures at present pursued in the breed- 
ing of horses are altogether wrong. They are expensive in their opera- 
tions and are deceptive in their results. They seem to be regulated by 
no consideration for the animal, but shaped to the utter convenience of 
man. The use of "stud farms" or breeding establishments has increased 
with the degeneracy of blood stock. The horse is by nature too inti- 
mately associated with its master to be profitably reared in flocks, like to 
sheep or oxen, which, being unsuited for the active purposes of life, and 
of duller dispositions than the equine race, can thrive on mere tran- 
quillity, increasing in the state of semi-domestication. The horse is 
gifted with a spirit which refuses to vegetate, to fatten, and to multiply, 
being content simply with an abundance of provender. Where success- 
ful speculation is dependent upon the value of the produce rather than 
upon the number of foals born, a man may certainly be richer, who shall 
in two years obtain one prime birth ; and he may be much poorer, who 
is annually the owner of various yearlings, none of which shall be suited 
to the higher purposes of the breed. 

The proper place for the horse is the homestead of the proprietor. 
It is the servant, and should be the companion of its owner. There is 
no other living creature which is so entirely blended with man. It is 
unknown in the wild state, — the flocks of horses spoken of as wild being 
merely animals which are turned out on uninhabited plains, but which, 
nevertheless, are strictly private property. The distinguishing mark of 
wildness — or a tendency to return to a particular color — is lost in this 
quadruped. Wild sheep and goats are common. Oxen, as an undo- 
mesticated race, are largely represented. But on the face of the globe 
the horse — though the most intelligent and the fleetest of its genus — is 
not to be discovered unassociated with humanity. 

The creature, thus distinguished, merits that the gentleness of civili- 
zation should characterize its treatment. During the months of gesta- 
tion, the animal should be fondled and caressed. Any kindness which 
may be now lavished upon the submissive slave will be certainly repaid 
hereafter. The hour is approaching when a familiarity with man may 



438 BREEDING. 

soft«n restraini, aud render less perilous the time of danger. The mare, 
being more intelli/^ent than the cow, feels more acutely, and does not 
suffer so apathetically. It is more demonstrative in its behavior; but 
the generous quadruped will, in the utmost wrench of agony, recognize 
the step or the voice of one who has been kind, and will even be sus- 
tained by the presence of him who has earned its confidence. The 
animal is by gentleness wooed, as it were, to submission. It learns to 
associate happiness with the person of its superior; and willingly sub- 
jects itself to his assistance. Moreover, there is a depth in nature which 
humanity has not fathomed, and the indulgences bestowed upon the 
mother, in some mysterious manner may serve to tame the progeny 
that is not yet numbered among the host of this world's inhabitants. 

Then, following the author's proposed mode of treating a mare, w-liich 
shall be profitable for brood purposes, let the most promising female foal 
be destined from its birth for this function. It should never be placed 
in the hands of a "breaker," or have its back strained by being mounted. 
The creature should be rather coaxed to toil than coerced to labor ; it ia 
astonishing how much more can be accomplished by such means than 
will be effected by the harsher methods. Subsequent to the fourth year, 
the quadruped may earn its keep ; but it should never be urged beyond 
that point, and where a difference must exist, the balance should stand 
in the animal's favor. Only the lightest jobs should be chosen — the 
mare being treated more like a favorite slave than regarded as the servile 
drudge, whose exhaustion will tend to the profit of a harsh proprietor. 

In this manner the first six years should be passed, when the mare, 
being matured sufficiently, and uninjured by work, may be put to the 
destined purpose ; similarity — not sameness, but more decidedly not 
difference — regulating the choice of a sire. In the selection, allow one 
to amend the faults of the other ; but in seeking this, avoid absolute con- 
trast, as the union of opposites is too apt to produce deformity. 

When choosing a mare for breeding, endeavor to discard the much 
which has been printed on this subject. Let compactness of form, 
strength, and an aptitude for exertion decide the choice. The legs 
should be stout and short, — declaring bone and tendon to be present. 
The upper portions of these members cannot be too bulging, thick, long, 
or muscular. The crest should be highly arched, and characterized by 
substance ; for the movements of the body are much controlled by the 
muscles of the neck. The shoulder cannot be too fleshy, so it shall 
slant properly, is firm to the touch, and is situated below withers suffi- 
ciently lofty. For hunting or for ordinary purposes, high withers are 
imperative. For racing they are no recommendation, as lofty action 
delays speed and lessens the length of stride. The back should be 



BREEDING. ■^39 

short, save only in the racer. The loins ought to be broad. The hips 
cannot appear too ragged or be too wide apart, while the quarters must 
seem large in every direction ; nor is it to be considered a fault, should 
these last parts stand higher than and appear disproportioned to the 
other regions. Above all, see that the channel is wide, the mouth large, 
and the nostrils ample. 

Do not, according to the prevailing notion, search after a long or 
roomy trunk. Most people like such a shape, because the carcass 
which they seek after is wanted to contain, with a foal, the enormous 
quantity of grass which the animal is forced to consume before life can 
be sustained. The mare just described is not supposed to live in the 
field, but to be as carefully tended and as liberally nurtured as the best 
horse in the stable. It is, during gestation, desirable that nourishment 
should occupy as little compass as possible ; while it should not corrupt 
the body's natural juices. This last effect is consequent on the con- 
sumption of dry fodder. The moisture of the mother's body is ab- 
stracted from the foetus, to soften the harsh and hard food which op- 
presses the stomach. But when grass is eaten, an excess of Avater 
renders that which should support the growth of the future foal weak 
and devoid of nurture, while it engenders dropsy in the dam, and also 
compresses the dawning life in its primary home. 

When the period arrives, the time occupied by the mare in "foaling" 
will be short. The cow is usually slow in these matters. The mare is 
always speedy, and far less patient under pain. Therefore when the 
signs, which are well understood, declare the time to be rapidly ap- 
proaching, send immediately for the nearest veterinary surgeon. How- 
ever, previously ascertain that he is apt in this kind of business ; and, 
above all things, be sure he is a feeling man. A coarse and noisy prac- 
titioner is of no service about horses. The words may not be under- 
stood, but the manners are quickly interpreted. The quadruped, at this 
period, wants support, encouragement, and kindness. A harsh com- 
mand or a threatening gesture may so alarm timidity, in its hour of ex- 
citement, as shall retard the event they are intended to facilitate. Se- 
verity, however, does not always lead to any immediate result ; but it 
may so flutter the mother or disturb its system as will assuredly be 
fruitful in after disorder. 

Should the animal be properly formed, and have been well selected, 
but little aid will probably be required ; yet it is always prudent to have 
assistance at hand, as the mare on such occasions admits of no delay. 
Do not, however, allow the animal to give birth in a field or in the open 
air. Such may be the prevailing custom ; but custom is always a bad 
leader for a prudent man to follow. Numerous children are born under 



440 



BREEDING. 



hedges or in gipsy tents; but, nevertheless, such places are not to be 
preferred for ladies; and the horse, now under consideration, has not 
been reared upon a common, or is it one that knows only comfort during 
the presence of sunshine. Lead the quadruped gently into a thickly 
littered loose box, having trusses of straw carefully poised against the 
inner walls of the building. 



^' 



ma fi««i«' HI m HI 




FREFARINQ THE LYING-IN CHAMBER. 



The proprietor, however, must not be regulated in his measures b} 
any rigid attention to dates. These afford nothing like an absolute rule 
worthy of being implicitly obeyed. Neither need he be thrown into a 
fluster, because the mare heaves at the flanks. Such a symptom, when 
unaccompanied by other signs, merely denotes a passing spasm, which 
may generally be removed by the following drink. Should the pain not 
yield, the dose may be repeated in half an hour; for, at this critical 
period, no bodily disturbance can be without importance. These attacks 
are said to be produced by drinking largely of cold water, by imexpected 
excitement, etc. 

Drink for heaving of the flanks. 

Sulphuric ether One ounce. 

Cold water Three quarters of a pint. 

Mix. Stir till the ingredients are blended; then give as gently as 
possible. 



BREEDING. 



441 



The hour of labor being near at hand, a pair of light hobbles should 
be attached to the fetlocks of both hind legs. This should be done bj 
the person in whom the animal has the greatest confidence, as the near 
approach of a stranger, at such a moment, is very far from desirable. 
From each hobble should proceed a stout, short rope, the ends of which 
should unite with a longer cord. The man whom the quadruped most 
likes should pass the longer rope through the forelegs, and, taking his 
position near tlie head, he should hold the end, not so tightly as to in- 
convenience the mare, but always so firmly as will be ready for any 
sudden surprise. Mares are apt to be impatient on these occasions; 
under the strong tension of agony, they will sometimes "lash out." 
Should such be the case, the man's strength may not be powerful enough 
to check the action ; but when aided by his voice, it may distract the 
animal's attention, break the force of the blow, and save the veterinary 
surgeon from any very serious injury. 



.,lTf9;_t, ..*,-.._ 







tKEPARAlION FOR IHE ETEM. 



When the foal is born, let it be received in the arms of the groom, and 
with care laid upon the straw. This done, all present had better retire, 
for the mother and its offspring may with confidence be left to nature. 
There should be no peeping through crevices, for the eye of maternity is 
cunning at detection. Neither should the slightest noise be permitted 
around or near to the building, as the nerves are always morbidly ex- 



442 



BREEDING. 



cited during this particular period. Silence is a good medicine to quiet 
a disturbed system. The creature will do well, if left to itself. The 
cleansing of the foal may be confidently trusted to the parent's affection. 
All she immediately requires is a pail of milk- warm gruel; three hours 
afterward, she may accept a meal of prepared food. 




THE NEWLT-BORN FOAL. 



Should the after-birth not be immediately ejected, resort to no purg- 
ing ; neither adopt any mechanical contrivance to expedite its expulsion. 
These old methods are altogether wrong. The retention is caused by 
the weakly condition of the mare, which allows the uterus to remain re- 
laxed. The fittest physic, in such a case, is a quart of strong and sound 
ale. Give three doses of this medicine, each administered after a lapse 
of three hours. Should no effect have resulted subsequent to another 
pause of the like duration, inject into the part a full stream of cold water, 
permitting the fluid to return unchecked. Continue to do this till a 
spasm appears ; then leave off, for your object is accomplished : the pain 
announced the viscus has contracted. 

Dry the mare ; give another pail of gruel ; place a feed of softened 
food in the manger, and leave the creature to luxuriate in that rest 
which will now be enjoyed. 

Animals soon get over such affairs. The foal requires nothing beyond 
a sheltered abode and its mother's attention. Should, however, the 



BREEDING. 



443 



source of the young one's nourishment prove unprolific for more than 
twenty-four hours, a httle skimmed cows' milk, first boiled and ther 
slightly sweetened, being afterward diluted with its amount of warm 
water, may, if sufficiently cool, be presented. The human hand is in- 
serted into the fluid, and two fingers only allowed to protrude above the 
surface ; these are generally seized upon, the nourishment being easily 
imbibed by the hungry foal. More than a single feed is seldom needed ; 
even that had better be withheld until evident weakness necessitates its 
administration. 




FEEDING THE NEWLT-BORN FOAL. 



Do not bother the mare or be tempted to thwart the course of nature 
at such a time with the impertinence of ball or drink. All physic should 
be withheld. The common Parent is very indulgent at such seasons ; 
unless opposed by mortal ignorance, his kindness generally proves the 
best restorative. However, should the bowels continue decidedly cos- 
tive, some abdominal irregularity may be suspected, and then a bran 
mash, into which some softened corn should be thrown, will commonly 
afford all requisite relief. With regard to the newly born, it is better 
not to interfere. So the parent be kept in health, the offspring usually 
has all the medicine it requires. Liberal, not too stimulating diet, a 
sheltered abode, a dry ground, and a kind proprietor embrace the chief 
if not all the wants of an animal in this condition. 



444 



BREEDING. 



The mother, after her title is confirmed, should always receive her 
food out of some vessel, which a man should hold during the time it is 
consumed. Much good is thus effected by allaying the fear natural to 
maternity ; the person so occupied should carefully abstain from any act 
which might alarm the anxiety of a newly-made parent. The same in- 
dividual should not always present the meal ; but different people should 
assume this office, so the animal may be thus trained to regard men as 
friends, and taught to depend upon the generosity of its superiors. By 
degrees, the foal should be coaxed to accept morsels from the hand of 
its attendant; advantage should then be taken to pat and to fondle the 
timid youngster. The puiijort of such lessons is quickly understood ; 










PEEDINQ THE DAM. AND COAXINQ THE FOAL TO EAT. 



for the horse appears naturally to value, far higher than is its worth, any 
act of condescension from the appointed master. There seems to exist 
a yearning toward its custodian, and it is surprising to witness with 
what persistency the human race repel this instinct. The sole object of 
man — who should by right of moral appreciation and of intellectual cul- 
ture subdue, tame, and domesticate the creatures of this earth- -appar- 



BREEDING. -^45 

ently being to make his presence dreaded by the lives which long to 
love and are anxious to serve him. 

It is usual to reintroduce the male a few days, generally three, subse 
quent to delivery. But such a custom is far too saving to be profitable 
How does man imagine that one poor body is, besides extracting sus- 
tenance from grass, to yield milk to the living and to sustain the growth 
of the futui'e offspring at the same time ? It has been well declared that 
no organ is equally fitted to perform two offices ; but surely either of 
the functions alluded to is a sufficient drag. If the reader has any 
interested motive for concluding otherwise, the countenances of most 
women, during the latter stages of pregnancy, and the shout of the 
pot-boy at the human mother's door, are evidences in favor of the 
author's correctness. Moreover, to demonstrate how these functions 
are opposed, a fact of common occurrence, among the lower order, may 
be mentioned. When failing wages render an increase of family un- 
desirable, it is usual for the married women to suckle the last child even 
for years, thereby delaying the advent of the next intruder. 

To afford the nutriment which shall maintain two growing lives and 
to support itself, is obviously too great a tax to be readily sustained by 
one body. The drain must be the greater, because each will demand 
the more as time progresses ; thus the unborn has a portion of its sus- 
tenance diverted, while the milk, on which the living foal should be 
matured, is impoverished by the necessities of the maternal system. 

Therefore, when entering upon the speculation of breeding horses, it 
should be remembered that though a foal is a foal, nevertheless a good 
and a bad foal are very different beings, when tested by figures in an 
account book. One good foal, every two years, will pay far better than 
four bad foals every year; as the eight indifferent creatures may be well 
sold at £20, whereas a promising produce may be purchased at a very 
reasonable price if it should be parted with for no more than £50. 

When depicting the habits of most breeders, however, it must be 
recollected that the greater number of mares get no corn. A few receive 
from their liberal owners a little of the damaged produce of last year's 
crop; while thorough -breds generally obtain half the quantity allowed 
to most working animals, and to each the grain is always presented dry. 
The majority of mares are turned out to grass, with the foal running at 
their sides, and the enlarged abdomens showing that "one off, another 
will come on," which seems to be a ruling maxim with Enghsh breeders. 
Green herbage has a tendency to induce ascites ; such an effect declares 
the food to be deficient in nourishing properties. The mare, then, while 
suffering from a most exhausting malady, excited by unwholesome diet, 
is expected to suckle and to breed ! The body thus engrossed is, more- 



446 BREEDING. 

over, anticipated to yield its owner a profit. To uphold such a foolish 
system, there are large establishments scattered over the country ; while 
gentlemen and men of education publicly vent their lamentations, because 
so senseless a plan does not prove a remunerative amusement ! 




BREEDING, SUCKLING, AND UVING ON GRASS. 



Witli the silly method of breeding should also be discarded another 
general rule, the two regulations evidently forming part of one system. 
Be the foal healthy or weakly, it is permitted to run at its mother's side 
oaly for an arbitrary period. Should the young one be well developed, 
its good points may, nevertheless, be confirmed by a reasonable enjoy- 
ment of the maternal attentions. Often the too early weaning will prove 
a serious check to the growth. Could man only control his impatience, 
the settlement of such matters might be left to nature. The pair should 
not be divided, so long as their company is mutually agreeable. The 
animals, however, as age advances, should be carefully watched, and the 
two separated so soon as the mother shows she has received nature's 
command to stop the supplies. 

It is a common occurrence for the breeder to delay " operating " upon 
the male colt, because the body needs further development. A week or 
two of early comfort will do more for the future points than will months 
of delay, after the deficiency is all but confirmed, or when time has given 
a certain direction to the growth. The author has never beheld any 



BREEDING. 



44Y 



benefit result from these periods of exemption, which are, however, 
usually granted as a kind of forloi-n hope. There is another prevalent 
custom, which is equally objectionable. All men, in this country, first 
use the animal Avhich is subsequently to propagate its race. The higher 
breed is broken, trained, and run, before it is "thrown" into the stud. 
In lower life, the farmer, after having hacked and hunted a creature till 
existence is worthless and spirit gone, says, over his jug and his pipe, 
" That ould mare has proved a downright good bit of stuif. I should 
like to have a foal out of her before she is knocked on the head." So 
he procures the service of some led horse, and turns the aged animal on 
to the common, to endure the inclemency of our climate without protec- 
tion, — "to rest herself," he asserts; but the author declares such food 
and shelter to be almost starvation. This conduct would seem to be 
the climax of possible folly ! Nevertheless, the farmer acknowledges 
nothing wrong in his behavior; for he is as bold and as loud in his 
lamentations as other people, when a weakly foal results from his want 
of consideration — the blame always being cast upon the sire. 




IRE OULD MAR. 



The foregoing chapter has not been so much an ex]DOsition of existing 
customs, as a consideration how far the prevailing habits reasonably 
admit of amendment. The views which have been announced may, to 
many minds, appear as purely theoretical, and, as such, to be deserving 



448 BREEDING. 

of no consideration. But before the reader jumps to such a conclusion, 
he is entreated to reflect that the period of gestation in the mare occu- 
pies nearly the space of an entire year. Having weighed this fact, let 
him learn the gestative season required by other animals, and determine 
whether there is any living creature whose capabilities are taxed with 
an equal severity to those of the equine tribe. At the same time, he 
should appreciate the circumstance that the offspring of the horse is 
esteemed only as its body is developed, or is capable of labor; whereas 
the young of many other creatures are kept for amusement, or valued 
only as articles of food. Surely, where perfection is the object, a greater 
patience might be reasonably displayed in the mode of securing its 
attainment J 



CHAPTER XIY. 

BREAKING AND TRAINING THEIR ERRORS AND THEIR RESULTS. 

However much the English nation may have advanced in civilization, 
as regards the horse, its habits, its subjugation, and its training, two 
centuries would appear to have introduced no important change or 
material improvement. Some minor alterations, undoubtedly, have been 
adopted ; but the benefits conferred upon the animal by such innovations 
are more than questionable; and these variations seem to have been 
regulated far more by obedience to the progress of society, than to have 
been recommended by the slightest sympathy for the quadruped. 

A reference to the copper-plate engravings which ornament the old 
work, in two volumes folio, by William Cavendish, Duke of Newcastle, 
entitled "^ General System of Horsemanship," will demonstrate the 
present formal mode of sitting in the saddle, which is now regarded as 
imperative by the military profession, to be no more than the ancient 
fashion of riding which was common with our ancestry. In language, 
manners, costume, or in any of the many things which mark a people^s 
advance, fixedness has not been allowed to check invention ; but, where 
improvement was most needed, not only to ameliorate the condition of 
the slave, but to confirm the progression of man, by rendering impos- 
sible those sights which degrade and which debase the reasoning faculty, 
it has apparently been absent. The creature, during these years, has 
altered in form, and has become milder in character. The spurs and 
bits of former times are no longer in general use, because these are no 
longer required. They assuredly were not cast aside from any con- 
sideration for the life to coerce which they were employed, although a 
simple regard for property may have banished such ready instruments 
of torture and of injury. In justification of the foregoing remarks, the 
portrait of the Marquis (only of a much reduced size) is inserted on the 
next page. 

The lunging of the existing horse-breaker is obviously nothing beyond 
that circular practice which constituted the chief portion of equine edu- 
cation with our forefathers. It is in the book just named depicted over 
and over again, until tho image, from repetition, grows tedious. It 

29 (449) 



450 



BREAKING AND TRAINING. 



seems vary difficult to understand the useful or rational purpose which 
this peculiar lesson is now intended to support. Some persons assert 
it is of much service in taming, as it assuredly must tire, the colt. Others 
declare it teaches the animal to bear properly on particular limbs. A 
third party assures us it is of infinite service, because it instructs the 
young horse in leaning toward the rein, and, by not permitting the eyes 
to be wholly engaged in directing the feet, il obliges the quadruped to 
employ "high action." 




COPrED FROM THE "SYSTEM OF HORSEMANSHIP" BY THE DUKE OF NEWCASTLE. 



The use of the limbs is governed by the natural formation of the body; 
this last no breaker will undertake to improve. It certainly is assum- 
ing too much for any art to pretend it can alter that which nature has 
decreed. A well-formed creature, although it should never have ex- 
perienced the breaker's instruction, will, of necessity, exhibit grace in 
its movements. The action of a badly-made quadruped may be tem- 
porarily disguised, but it will permanently retain only the mode of pro- 
gression it is fitted to exemplify. By forcing a faulty horse to trot in a 
shallow stream, or by obliging the animal to move briskly with sand 
bags attached round the fore fetlocks, a badly-made colt often will, for a 
space, adopt a higher action; but it is always certain that this step, 



BREAKING AND TRAINING. 



451 



wliicli has been acquired at personal inconvenience, will not be long 
maintained, when the inducement no longer operates. 

But, to take a practical view of the good likely to result from lunging. 
Horses sometimes are obliged to move in circles: mill horses pass theii 
lives in such educational employment. The only effect produced by this 
long course of instruction is that the poor victims become sightless. 
Traveling round and round soon causes giddiness, or induces a determ- 
ination of blood to the brain. Young animals often stagger when re- 
lieved from their monotonous course of lunging duties. Old quadrupeds, 
we are told, grow used to the motion ; but such familiarity is purchased 
with the deprivation of one "precious sense." This termination is 
hastened with the rapidity of the movements. Mill horses walk their 
monotonous rounds ; but the breaker, dreading no results, makes the colt 
trot when describing this, his favorite figure. 



" !=rs^S(i-i5ii=^_ £ys&^s. ri^'C?'-=5iw5?>5AtS5- '= : : ' vajrii 





ii^:^.v>. :. 




Blood, therefore, rapidly loads and oppresses the brain of the young 
animal thus abused ; and this consequence is the quicker as the pace is 
more excited, because the circulation is not only faster, but it is also 
more under subjection to external influences in the young than in the 
matured. The optic nerves originate from the sensorium, being a direct 
continuation of the substance of the brain itself; whenever the nervous 
center is congested, sight is the first sense that suffers, or the first that 



452 



BREAKING AND TRAINING. 



tells the eordition of the organ. Frequent repetition of this result upon 
the delicate structures of growing life appears to be an antiquated cus- 
tom, which modern civilization should immediately abolish. It is not 
prudent in man to hazard the injury of his most valuable possession, 
when he simply intends to render the animal better suited for his service. 
Gentlemen no longer delight to disport on "the grand horse;" neither 
is it esteemed any part of a liberal education to exhibit an ability to sit 
in the "high saddle." It is, then, impossible to understand the motive 
which reconciles the present generation to an injurious form, the inten- 
tion of which was exploded many years ago. No direct result appears 
to favor of habit. The people who profess to "break in" colts may 
vaunt their capabilities; but the author cannot remember the quad- 
rupeds which, by force or cunning, however unscrupulously employed, 
had been in any degree improved. On the contrary, he has seen several, 
and has heard of more animals, which are reputed to have been injured 
by having been improperly "broken." 




CIBCBLAR PRACTICE. A3 ILLUSTRATED BY A FORMER DDKE OF NEWCASTLE. 



The horse is the most patient servant intrusted to mortality. Man 
can only spoil, when he essays to amend the perfection of Heaven's gift. 



BREAKING AND TRAINING. 453 

It is good enough in its natural state. It was sent upon earth with a 
disposition which adapted it for that position it was destined to occupy. 
It was created with a spirit that yearned to love, that was happy to 
serve, and that was proud to obey. Must it not be the fatuity of weak- 
ness which tempts mankind to waste the strength, to distort the limbs, 
and to hazard the sight of their most precious possession, by a senseless 
adherence to an antiquated form ? 

Every gentleman was intended to be his own horse-breaker, in the 
same manner as it is now acknowledged that all men should exercise 
authority over those families at the heads of which they are placed. 
The qualifications for such an office many gentlemen may be inclined to 
dispute ; at their investment with such a novel duty many individuals 
may express unqualified surprise. This, however, is only the announce- 
ment of man's want of appreciation for the blessings which surround 
him. Could humanity exalt its vision, it would perceive in its increased 
duties the boundless mercies which have fitted it to rule on earth ! 

The horse is, essentially, the servant of man. The greatest indul- 
gence cannot elevate the quadruped out of its real position. The foal is 
born to its fetters, happy in the bravery of perfect inexperience. Doubt- 
ing nothing, but too timid to display much trustfulness. Gracefully 
pliant in its nature, therefore prepared for subjugation; but soon won to 
love, thereby fitted for domestication. In fact, the horse is the slave of 
its reverence and its affection. The breaker injures the quadruped by 
operating only upon its fears, and by not appealing to its higher or its 
better qualities. The horse, when not guided by its attachments, is a 
ferocious savage. It is not prudent in man to treat such a gifted creat- 
ure as though it were a piece of crude metal, which will bend only to the 
employment of force ; but it would be wiser, did he receive and shelter 
the youthful spirit prepared by its Maker to appreciate the rule dic- 
tated by a milder impulse than one of brutal severity. 

The equine race are rendered capricious or obstinate by injudicious 
petting; but they are made dangerous and ferocious by the opposite 
kind of treatment. The animals which are most valuable, or those 
with feelings most readily kindled, are the quadrupeds which the breaker 
quickly and irremediably spoils. Thus was poor Cruiser rendered dis- 
trustful, and taught to regard all mankind as enemies. The breaking 
and training inflicted upon the thorough-bred made an impression which 
no time could obliterate. The animal became dangerous, and continued 
so till it encountered Mr. Rarey. His gentleness, blended with an abihty 
to instruct, conquered and subdued the rebellious spirit. In its surprise, 
the creature rose from its bonds to worship and to love forever the being 
who had overpowered, but had not pained the "man hater." To him it 



454 BREAKING AND TRAINING. 

became gentle and familiar as a dog ; but toward other representatives 
of humr^nity it still was urged by that dread which had been established 
in its colthood. 

The quadruped, being thus susceptible to impressions, of course re- 
quires a treatment dictated by wisdom and originating in humanity. No 
maudlin familiarity must ever be indulged, which may cause the slave to 
forget it is in the presence of its master. Love delights in humility; 
but the feelings are traitorous which tempt mortality to assume such a 
character before its equine dependent. The aptitude for being spoilt 
pervades all animal life. It is only more strongly marked in the horse 
than in other creatures. The dog, when too much indulged, loses its 
aflPection in its sense of power: it will often snap at the hand which 
feeds it. The horse requires, at all times, a conviction of authority to 
restrain its strength. If permitted to indulge its own will, — ^to stop 
when the voice says "go on," — it changes from the most subservient of 
slaves into the most capricious of masters. Therefore man, in his inter- 
course with the equine race, should, from prudential motives, never be 
cruel ; but, to anticipate the necessity for punishment, he should remem- 
ber that nature had created the horse to serve and given it a disposition 
to obey. 

Kindness, however, is essential. When training a racer, excess of 
fluid is assuredly inimical to condition. But it is not therefore desirable 
to place the animal where a morbid longing is certain to be generated. 
That, however, is now always done. The stable is heated with impurity: 
fever is the consequence. Food is given dry : the raging thirst of dis- 
ease is thereby aggravated. Still, the trainer laments many of his horses 
will not eat, while more fail during his efforts to promote their condition. 
Could he be persuaded to amend his ways, possibly he would have less 
occasion to sorrow over imaginaiy misfortunes ! 

Place the horse in a warm, but airy, loose box. Give the water min- 
gled with the food, or soak the fodder before presenting it. The creature 
naturally consumes little liquid during health. But if the body be dis- 
eased, morbid appetites are excited. Now, condition is the perfection 
of possible health, and the author only complains because modern train- 
ing is not calculated to attain the end at which it obviously strives. 
Therefore, much is ruined and little perfected under the prevailing sys- 
tem. The measures are wrong, simply because they are cruel. They 
are calculated to provoke resistance rather than win obedience from a 
simple being. Severity never shows itself so abhorrent as when ex- 
ercised over the meek and the submissive. 

At the same time that man's power may be perfect, it should be as a 
law of existence : it should be exercised from the hour of birth, not sud- 



BREAKING AND TRAINING. 



455 



denly imposed upon an unbroken spirit whicli had previously been per 
mitted to enjoy the wildest freedom. It should govern from the earliest 
consciousness, not, as now, be plumped upon a young life which hay 
hitherto been permitted to roam, knowing no restraint. The foal should 
not run entirely free by its mother's side : the colt should not be turned 
into some handy paddock to feed and grow, till it is old enough "to be 
wanted :" the life should not exist without a need or a care, until a cer- 
tain age is attained, when the young creature is to be suddenly parted 
from its enjoyments, and the happy spirit is to be literally "broken" 
unto the most servile obedience. 

Let the education commence with the birth. Let a man always pre- 
sent the vessel from which the mother feeds. The mare will obey the 
instinct of appetite ; the behavior of its dam will instruct the impulses 
of her young. At the expiration of a week or two, the semblance of a 




CAST BY THE HEAD-STALL. 



head-stall may be put on the foal ; but this should never be worn when 
the groom is absent, as animals may cast themselves, by getting the 
hind hoof entangled when endeavoring to scratch the ear. That part of 
the body the friction of the straps generally causes to itch ; the conse- 
quence being almost certain, the result is likewise fatal. Several valua- 
ble horses have been sacrificed, through grooms turning the creatures 
into the field without removing the halters. These last were left on, be- 
cause the quadrupeds, when thus caparisoned, were more easily caught 
by an idle domestic. This subject has, in a previous part of the work, 
been illustrated ; but to prevent the inconvenience of a reference to a 
former page, the engraving was reproduced. 



45fi 



BREAKING AND TRAINING. 



4.fter a space, a cord may be attached, and the young may be held 
while its parent feeds. Then something like a surcingle may be fixed 
round the body; such things should be made of strips of cloth or of 
calico, the intention merely being to indicate those articles which must 
be assumed hereafter. Subsequently a juicy piece of any root the creat- 
ure may dehght in — of marsh-mallow, of aniseseed, or of liquorice — 
should be Inserted between the lips as a mimic bit, from which should 
depend two short reins. If these things are properly made and carefully 
introduced, every addition will be accepted with pleasure as a new orna- 
ment. No sense of restraint will interfere with an innocent amusement; 
but the little animal, conscious of no pain, will soon exhibit gratification 
when arrayed in the representatives of future fetters. 




a HE FIRST HARNESS PUT ON A FOAL. 



At the same time the hand should be frequently passed over the body, 
and occasionally carried down the limbs, although nothing approaching 
a regular grooming can, as yet, be necessary. The fluff of the mane, the 
tail, the forelock, and the fetlock should, subsequently, be combed out 
very gently, the attendant taking care to praise the foal during the pro- 
cess, and feigning to feel ecstatic admiration after the performance of 
each operation. All animal life — even does the truth extend to the 
birds — is peculiarly susceptible to human flattery; for the German peas- 



BREAKING AND TRAINING. 



451 



ant teaches the bullfinch to pipe, by dancing before its cage, playing to 
the captive, and only pausing after each tune to indulge in the pretense 
of a most extravagant delight. 

The youngster should then be led about a meadow by its tiny reins : 
when perfect in this lesson, it may be fastened to its mother's head while 
the mare goes to or from its labor. But it must not be forgotten that a 
harsh word, hastily spoken, may efface more knowledge than a month 
of tender tuition can communicate. Gentleness and equanimity are of 
all value, when the confidence of young existence has to be won ; for 
such a capacity, patience becomes something more than an ordinary 
virtue. Some shyness or show of resistance must be expected when the 
little foal finds itself first fastened to its mother's side, near the shafts of 
a light cart ; but this will speedily disappear. The tiny feet should, at 
length, be raised, and afterward the horn be gently tapped or rapped 
against. These things should be repeated, till they are submitted to 
without any evidence of fear having been excited by the liberties. Such 
preparator}^ lessons ought to be given before the strength is sufficiently 
matured to be dangerous. 




HANDLING THE FEET. 



When the weaning has, by the process of nature, been accomplished, 
the colt should not be turned out and neglected until a determined timo 
for " breaking in " comes round. It should still be sheltered and nour- 



458 



BREAKING AND TRAINING. 



ished ut the home, the previous lessons being enforced with greater em- 
phasis as the age progresses, and the animal being taken occasionally to 
the forge, there to stand among other horses, but not to be shod. From 
its earliest day, man should appear as the necessary companion to every 
movement. It will soon learn to follow like a dog ; thus it may enjoy a 
partial degree of freedom. But no weakness should betray its custodian 
into any resemblance even of over-indulgence, although the little creature 
will regard its tutor with affection, so he does not by his severity repel 
its advances. 

When, however, the animal is no longer permitted to run by its 
parent's side, the education ought to assume the character of earnest. 




EECEIVING TUE FIRST LESSON. 



A small snaffle should be attached to a regular bridle ; when the 
youngster is led out to exercise, this harness should be put on. The 
surcingle should be exchanged for something resembling a saddle ; ulti- 
mately, a dumb jockey ought to be mounted on the back. Upon the 
extended points of the last machine, an old hat and a cloth may be 
affixed. These objects will at first excite terror; but fear not being jus- 
tified and the colt not being hurt by the dreaded presence, confidence 
will return. A sack, stuffed with straw, and moulded somewhat into 
the shape of a man, should then be placed over the dumb jockey. Little 
stirrups and a pair of representative legs should hang on either side, 



BREAKING AND TRAINING. 459 

wliile, to complete the whole, reins may be fastened to the bit ; a por- 
tion of these last being formed of India-rubber, for not a few mouths are 
permanently destroyed by the unyielding tug of the heavy-fisted breaker. 

i^ll these liberties being permitted, if the instruction has been prop- 
erly communicated, the pupil will have been rather pleasurably excited 
than permanently alarmed by the varied progi'ess of its tuition. Such 
lessons, however, should be daily given, until the colt has attained its 
second year. It should then be regularly groomed ; but nothing 
weightier than a dumb jockey being placed upon its back before the 
third year has been completed. 

This age being attainded, a very diminutive lad may be put into the 
colt's saddle ; but as boys are too apt to spoil the mouth by hanging 
back and holding on by the reins, the India-rubber had better be con- 
tinued, and the jockey instructed not to interfere with the bridle, save 
when his so doing is necessary to guide the animal. Then the teaching 
of different paces may begin, the quadruped being always instructed in 
company with a perfectly trained old horse. All feeble intellects are apt 
at imitation, and a colt shall readily learn from example what coercion 
will fail to impart. 

By the fourth year, the animal may be placed between the shafts of a 
very light gig, should its form indicate the creature not to be adapted for 
the saddle ; at first it must be walked about a meadow. When the 
sound of the wheels is not listened for with evidence of fear, the pace 
may be quickened. Subsequently a boy may get into the vehicle, while 
the man remains at the colt's head. Succeeding this, the course should 
be directed by the driver ; ultimately, after a man has for some weeks 
assumed the office of director, the vehicle may be taken upon the road. 

Most harness horses are very imperfectly broken. The education is 
too hurried, and seems to be considered as perfected whenever the ani- 
mal will merely take to the collar. The consequence is, there are more 
bad harness horses to be met with in London than creatures of any 
other description. Some have all spirit lashed or jaded out of them ; 
these have become "slugs," or the poor wretches are almost dead to 
command and insensible to the gead. Others are rendered incurable 
kickers by the treatment to which they have been subjected. A third 
class are ruined by the unscrupulous use of the reins; and some of these 
will take long journeys, all the time holding the bit between the teeth. 
A fourth set are rendered cripples by the unfeeling employment of the 
bearing-rein, which disables the organs of respiration, and renders the 
lightest draught a terrible burden, by throwing the work upon the mus- 
cles of the limbs, while it compels these agents to contract at a fearful 
disadvantage. 



460 BREAKING AND TRAINING. 

Those who delight in a lofty crest may accomplish more by attention 
to the health and diet than by the absence of humanity. The strongest 
bearing-rein and the sharpest bit cannot exalt the head of a spiritless 
horse. Clover, tares, beans and peas, by i^romoting the strength and 
lending tone to the muscular sj^stem, will do more to raise the neck and 
promote gayety of spirit than the harness-maker can accomplish. Bear- 
ing-reins are disgraceful cruelties, and do no more than expose the moral 
condition or the pecuniary meanness of those parties who employ them, 

In corroboration of the importance of the neck as an aid to motion, 
the reader must pardon the author if he refers to a well-marked circum- 
stance which has hitherto escaped observation. A horse with a thin or 
narrow neck, measuring from the cfest to the wind-pipe, should always 
be avoided. It denotes bodily weakness, and testifies to an absence of 
spirit. The cervical region always first exhibits the token of approach- 
ing emaciation. If the reader will hereafter test the remark by observa- 
tion, he will find all poor, exhausted animals, which carry the head as 
though its weight was oppressive, invariably have the neck much im- 
poverished and altogether attenuated. 

In short, a mere catalogue of the evils engendered by the injudicious 
breaking of draught horses, would occupy more space than the author 
has at his command. For this reason, the driver of a young animal 
should never be intrusted with reins made entirely of leather; a part of 
the length should be composed of India-rubber. Neither should he be 
permitted to flourish a whip. All severity is but an indulgence of the 
controller's temper; it is unnecessary with a life which is eager to learn 
and is anxious to obey. The sound of the voice or the gentlest indica- 
tion should be sufficient to excite the ability of such a pupil. No one 
can doubt this, who has beheld its activity of ear whenever the horse is 
addi'essed. 

After the foregoing fashion the education may be perfected, without 
allowing any professing brute, under the name of a "horse-breaker," to 
spoil the temper and to lay the seeds of future disease, by ill treatment 
of a few weeks' duration. Some j^ears ago the author remembers meet- 
ing a man, who must have weighed more than fourteen stone, seated on 
a side saddle, and having a horse rug dangling about his heels. He was 
supposed to be "breaking in" a colt, rising three, for a lady equestrian. 
His employer must have been excessively developed, or her repi'esenta- 
tive coiid only spoil the creature which was, ostensibly, preparing to 
receive a lighter burden and a more delicate hand. An accident was 
thus almost rendered certain, whenever the oppressed quadruped should 
be relinquished to its future mistress. 

The matters which have been already pointed out being attended tri, 



BREAKING AND TRAINING. 



461 



and the force having been increased with the growing strength of the colt, 
the creature, after its fifth year, (if intended for the higher purposes 
of the saddle,) should be taught to leap. To place a rider on an animal'si 
back and then to expect a bar to be cleared, is very like loading a youno 
lady with a sack of flour as preparatory to a dancing lesson being re- 
ceived. This folly is, however, universally practiced ; so is that of 
teaching the paces, when the quadruped's attention is probably engrossed 
by the burden which the spine has to sustain. 




EISING TO THE LEAP. 



Leaping is best taught by turning the horse into a small paddock 
having a low hedge or hurdle fence across its center. A rider should, 
in sight of the animal, take an old horse over this several times. The 
groom, who brings the corn at the meal hour, then goes to that side 
where the animal is not, and calls, shaking up the provender all the time 
his voice sounds. The boundary will soon be cleared. When half the 
quantity is eaten, the man should proceed to the opposite compartment 
and call again. If this is done every time the young horse is fed, the 
fence may be gradually heightened ; after six months of such tuition, a 
light rider may be safely placed upon the back. 

Instruction, thus imparted, neither strains the structures nor tries the 
temper. The habit is acquired without those risks which necessarily 
attend a novel performance, while a burden oppresses the strength, and 



462 



BREAKING AND TRAINING. 



whip 01 spur distracts the attention. The body is not disabled by the 
imposition of a heavy load before its powers are taxed to the uttermost. 
The quadruped has all its capabilities unfettered, and, in such a state, 
leaping speedily becomes as easy of performance as any other motion 




CLEAKIKG THE FENCE. 



Irish horses, all being excellent jumpers, are much esteemed in Eng- 
land. In Ireland, however, the fields are of small dimensions, and gates 
leading to them are uncommon. It is not unusual for a quadruped to be 
obliged to clear numerous walls before a certain pasture can be gained. 
Thus, to leap is rendered a prominent necessity of equine existence, for 
the steed must either jump or starve. By such a condition of their resi- 
dence is the Irish breed "made conspicuous for that activity which espe- 
cially excites the admiration of Englishmen. Hunting, moreover, is a 
favorite pastime with the natives of the sister isle ; therefore, while most 
Irish horses become admirable English hunters, the best of the English 
breed would be sadly thrown out by a short run in the adjacent king- 
dom. There can be, however, no reason why an English colt, if prop- 
erly trained, should not become as fine a performer as the most expert 
or celebrated of those animals which are generally supposed to be born 
"fencers." 

The seventh year should witness the horse taken into the active service 
of its master. Too early work, certainly, cripples the majority of ani- 



BREAKING AND TRAINING. 463 

Dials; but there is not a circumstance of the many, rebuked in these 
pages, which does not aid powerfully in producing that miserable effect. 
All the customs about the equine race seem to be antiquated and injuri- 
ous. An animal is taken up, is cast, is operated upon, is shod, is broken, 
and is sold often in the course of a few weeks. What a change has to 
be submitted to ! Every incident of life is altered — the creature is sud- 
denly called upon to endure a new existence. Is it a matter for surprise 
that nature occasionally rebels against so wholesale an innovation? Is 
it not a proof of the sweetness of the disposition which graces the equine 
race, that the majority can yield themselves up to the barbarity of such 
a terrible mutation ? 

The author does not imagine that any person will immediately delay 
the breaking of his horse up to the period which has been suggested. 
To take a colt only every second year, and always allow seven years to 
pass before the animal is brought to market, would, assuredly, double 
the present cost ; or, in other words, it would displace those animal weeds 
which now cheapen the price of horse flesh. No proposal generally suc- 
ceeds in the modern age, in which expense is decidedly ignored. The 
reader is, therefore, not expected to alter his plans because the present 
volume has been published. Something, however, will have been gained 
if the book causes him to question his existing behavior, even though he 
should not modify his proceedings. A writer, however, is bound to state 
that which in his conviction is the truth, and to pay no regard to motives 
of mere expediency. Then, putting probability and expense, convenience 
and existing arrangements out of the question, let the reader deliberately 
say, whether very much of what he has read was not right in theory. 

Then, as regards money expense, this might not be increased; for if 
the animal would cost twice as much, it would endure under a belter 
system four times as long. The outlay, consequently, reckoned against 
the years of service, would be smaller; nevertheless, many a decade 
must elapse before that which the book declares is practically carried 
out. Still, if a few only are convinced, and none adopt the plans pro- 
posed, good will ultimately result ; for the right must be known before 
it can be practiced, and man generally, in the end, does that which hia 
better sense has acknowledged to be just. The impulse which urges 
him to such a course may be resisted ; but it will, as a necessity of his 
existence, at length operate; for by such an irresistible power are 
thrones upturned, are institutions amended, and all human progress is 
ultimately controlled. 

The animal being educated according to the foregoing description, — 
not being forced to strain its thews and to distort its limbs before the 
frame has fairly been perfected, but being gradually brought to the 



464 



BREAKING AND TRAINING. 



mark of its requirements, and also permitted time to comprehend, before 
it is lashed to perform — being allowed the benefits of practice prior to 
being expected to exhibit its accomplishments — being simply treated 
after a manner that every grade of reason must recognize as just, — would 
come forth in the full possession of all its natural powers, and would 
distance the swarm of equine babies which now disgrace the thorough- 
fares, encumber the field, and ruin the race-course. It would be fitted 
to carry a man in any manly sport ; and it would be able, not being 
distraught by bodily pains, to sympathize in the pleasures of its rider, 
and to share the amusement in which he delighted. 

One peculiarity, illustrative of the present mode of preparing quad- 
rupeds for exertion, is to be witnessed in most hunting fields. The 
young gentleman who pays hundreds, perhaps, for his "mount," and 
whose horse has been long under the trainer's care, is usually '^no- 
where " at the death, although he is at liberty to choose his way and to 
regulate his pace according to his pleasure; whereas the huntsman, 
seated on a screw which has been hacked throughout the summer, is 
generally foremost in the chase. 




''''»--Jw^,//-' 



THE OLD HDNTER AND THE TODNQ STEED. 



This seeming inconsistency evidently favors those notions which the 
author has presumed to promulgate. The wealthy scion of aristocracy 



BREAKING AND TRAINING. 46S 

usually sits upon the young beauty, while the huntsman generally be- 
strides the aged animal. The older steed may be of little worth, and its 
blemishes may be numerous; but it has not been exhausted under a 
pretense of fitting it to endure; it has been hacked or ridden through 
the months when the younger quadruped was imprisoned in absolute 
idleness. The cheaper horse has been in constant requisition to exercise 
the dogs, etc., and therefore its health has been better preserved than is 
that of the gentleman's steed, which is either new to the sport, or has 
recently been taken from the supposed enjoyment of a summer's rest. 

Training of hunters and of racers, as at present conducted, is neither a 
strengthening nor a refreshing process. The animal that has recently 
been relinquished by the trainer, instead of being able to endure extra 
exertion, is generally debiHtated by those measures which were designed 
to produce a contrary effect. In the first place, three doses of physic, 
which are given under a belief of their tonic efficacy, are quite sufficient 
to disable any creature, that, like the horse, is possessed of a very large 
and a very long digestive track, or which nature, as a protection, had 
rendered almost safe from the purgative operation of medicinal agents. 
Before the bowels of the horse can be loosened, the primary effects of 
poisoning must be established. Aloes is the favorite purgative of the 
stable ; but so nearly related are the quantity which relaxes and the 
amount which kills, that probably aloes has poisoned more horses than 
all other drugs in the pharmacopoeia. 

The reader, to whom such a subject is a novelty, may inquire what 
the intestines have to do with the muscular action. Supposing such a 
question possible, the author replies, that although the animal body is 
made up of numerous parts, and composed of various organs, neverthe- 
less the whole is so united that no part or structure can be diseased, but 
the whole is affected. The intestinal track is lined with mucous mem- 
brane. When this surface is involved, prostration or debility ensues. 
Cold and sore throat are ready instances of this result; for both are cen- 
sequent upon small portions of inflamed mucous membrane. Imagine, 
then, the utter prostration which must ensue upon the morbid excite- 
ment of so large a mucous surface as that which covers the digestive 
canal of a horse. Yet the trainer thrice induces this consequence, under 
an ignorant conviction that by so doing he confers upon the sufferer 
extraordinary nervous energy 1 

Purging is, however, only slightly more weakening than sweating. 
Perspiration acts differently on different specimens of the same species. 
One person is nearly always bathed in moisture ; another invariably 
presents a dry skin. This shall hardly be moved without the surface of 
his body being loaded with copious drops of fluid exudation ; that will 

30 



466 BREAKING AND TRAINING. 

endure the utmost exertion, grow heated at any employment, but will 
not sensibly lose a particle by transmission. The trainer, nevertheless, 
treats all animals alike. He gallops every quadruped submitted to his 
care, as though the consequence was invariably beneficial. In vain does 
one horse break down, another refuse its corn, and a third exhibit swollen 
legs or crippled feet, while a fourth shall be only rendered more lively 
by the process which disabled its fellows. To sweat is a part of the 
trainer's system, and all the creatures which he is to train must therefore 
be violently sweated. 

With racers, to these modes of debilitating is united a third, — exces- 
sive labor. The horse is tried at its topmost speed. These trials are 
frequent ; although it is a common saying that a horse may be trained 
until it cannot move, still the practice is continued. The pace is quite 
as severe as it is in a public race ; the weight is usually pretty much the 
same. It is well known that these trials are often run in less time than 
the contest for which they are thought to be only a preparation. Not 
withstanding the repeated disappointment and the frequent injury in- 
duced, such prejudicial experiments are continued, though not in every 
sphere of training. Men train as prize fighters, but they do not, before 
entering the ring, engage in numerous pitched battles. There is, as- 
suredly, something wrong when the same law is stringent in one case 
but is inoperative in another, although both instances are supposed to 
be governed by the similar regulations. 

The trainer of late years has somewhat changed his customs. For- 
merly, animals, while in training, were taken out of the stable twice each 
day. Now they are allowed only to smell the air once in twenty-four 
hours ; but the period of labor is lengthened. The pace and the extent 
of time over which it ranges are important considerations when young 
life has to be dealt with. No less deserving some reflection is the bur- 
den to be carried during such exertion. Last of all, and probably as 
important as any, is the particular hour during which the natural habits 
of the colt fit it to sustain extraordinary fatigue. 

The trainer's horses, ranged in Indian file, are now abroad from eleven : 
sometimes they return by twelve ; at other occasions it is half-past twelve 
before the bridles are slackened ; but generally one o'clock has struck be- 
fore the saddles are removed. From eleven to one is the precise period 
when the sun attains its greatest altitude. At this time, those insect pests 
which torment the equine race are busy and abroad. It is true, the eye 
of the animal fits it to encounter the glare of the desert, but instinct dis- 
poses the quadruped to roam only when the atmosphere is cool, when 
all its annoyances have retired, and when moisture hangs upon the earth. 
The eye can better sustain the effects of hghtin its excess tha,n the feet — 



BREAKING AND TRAINING. 467 

than the horn of the hoof can endure the results of dryness or the 
hardness of a baked English clay. 

Yet the training horse is housed in stables the temperature of which 
is oppressive, the foulness of which must be most injurious to the pris- 
oner. It is there shut in stench and in darkness to recruit its strength, 
and to gain fresh energy to endure further reduction. Exercised, when 
nature would dispose the animal to rest; forced to submit to a fainting 
warmth, when instinct would induce the creature to seek the coolest 
shade ; ridden, till it almost fails ; physicked, till it reels ; and sweated, 
till the process makes it fear the opening of its stable door, — how is the 
trained quadruped nurtured ? How is it supported, to fortify the body 
for bearing up against such numerous trials ? 

It is compelled to consume hard corn and fibrous hay. Water is 
stinted. The measures just described must generate a raging thirst; 
but the trainer, according to his system, refuses drink. The contents of 
the manger must aggravate the dryness of the throat; but the trainer 
begrudgingly permits the animal to imbibe the contents of the pail. 
The mode of feeding is productive of other evils. Purging and sweating 
are excused, as necessary to remove accumulations of fat. Corn and 
hay are those very substances which induce the accumulation of fat ! 
Then, according to the present trainer's pretended system, one thing 
does that which another undoes. Whether nature is invigorated by 
such a process, the reader must decide. But, in the author's opinion, 
the existing method i§ a prejudice, which reason condemns, and which 
man is not justified in compelling any creature to undergo. 

All the foregoing customs are, in the author's judgment, decidedly 
wrong. The stable should be cool — not cold — sheltered and airy. The 
loose box should be large enough for the limbs to be stretched and for 
the position to be varied, according to the inclination of the inmate. 
The kind of equine residence which the writer approves of has already 
been described ; for information upon this subject, the reader is referred 
to the chapter treating of " Stables as they should be." 

The food should not be such as requires stone or steel to comminute 
it. Horses' jaws are not machines urged by steam, by wind, or by water ; 
but they are only bones acted upon by the contraction of muscular fiber. 
The exhaustion of a part must, as has been already explained, afiect the 
whole ; the exertion of extraordinary power in the head will, therefore, 
not refresh the limbs. Feed the animal, while being trained, upon soft- 
ened, not upon watery substances. Do not oblige the body to supply its 
own moisture, for that is to deprive the system of part of the nourishment 
which should be devoted to uphold the strength. 

As concerns the articles of food, these should not consist of oats and 



468 BREAKING AND TRAINING. 

hay, although a portion of either may form a part of the sustenance. 
There are certain substances the nutritive qualities of which are ex- 
pended in the formation of muscular fiber ; other materials are devoted 
entirely upon the adipose tissues. Among the last prominently stand 
the favorite provender of the English stable. A little of such nourish- 
ment is needed to supply the exhaustion of activity : so much should be 
presented. Of the other description — as beans, peas, vetches — there is 
a numerous tribe of legumens or plants, which present their seeds ip 
pods.t Hay should be made of these substances, by the seeds being sown 
broadcast and mown when only in flower. It is unfortunate that there 
exists a belief such articles are of too stimulating a nature to form the 
larger part of the stable diet. That, however, is a point which can only 
be decided by experiment ; and the best proof that no trial of the kind 
has been made, is afforded by the needful preparation required for its 
institution being unknown. However, the general custom of maintain- 
ing agricultural teams upon green vetches certainly does not countenance 
the notion that peril necessarily attends the adoption of such a form of 
diet. 

The hours of exercise should be amended. The morning's work should 
be performed at the earliest dawn, when it is getting light. The even- 
ing's labor should take place at dusk — :after sunset. The dew will then 
moisten and refresh the feet; the cool air will brace and revive the 
spirits. At such hours horses are always full of animation. At mid- 
day the creatures incline to repose. The animals, during the greatest 
heat, congregate under trees, hang the heads, and only by the nervous 
stamping of the feet or the lashing of the tails, testify to being conscious 
of the myriads which buzz around them. 

No animal should be trained with a weight upon the back. It should 
be led by a man, mounted upon an older horse. The exercise should 
never be carried beyond that which is needed to support the health ; it 
cannot possibly be otherwise than injurious, when it is pushed to the 
point of exhaustion. It betrays the folly of the present system, when 
we hear a trainer assert that the legs and feet cannot endure the work 
necessary to promote "condition." Condition could be induced without 
a single gallop. Trotting — easy motion — is all that is absolutely im- 
perative; only the exercise should continue longer than is at present 
usual on training ground. A horse thus conditioned would be brought to 
the post with its energies fresh for the trial — not lamed, nearly crippled, 
nor thoroughly enervated. 

Breaking and training both require serious revision. The first needs 
to be made level with the improved civilization and gentler habits of the 



BREAKING AND TRAINING. 469 

present time ; wliereas it is now almost that which it has been from the 
earlier period of authentic record. 

No notice is taken of the presence of railways ; of the general custom 
of using fire-arms; of discharging fire-works, or the almost universal 
habit of gas illumination; not to mention the various strange sights 
and novel exhibitions which the modern streets and highways fre- 
quently display. Accidents, neither few nor far between, are provoked 
by these things ; but the breaker, nevertheless, refuses to acknowledge 
their existence. He views his duties as perfected, and as needing or 
admitting of no improvement 1 

So also the trainer. His system has been only influenced by the evils 
generated through the customs which he obeys. Beyond the race-course, 
he sees and acknowledges nothing. Railways bring crowds down to all 
the great contests ; but he still trains his horses to run in stillness and 
in solitude. Many quadrupeds "shut up," when the people shout; the 
cause of this conduct the trainer refuses to recognize. Numerous ani- 
mals only show their qualities after age has familiarized them with the 
tumult of the mob ; still, the trainer can see no intimation in so evident 
a sequence, although intimately associated as cause and effect. 

Then, with respect to aloes. This drug should be discarded altogether. 
Neither should any of the different nostrums, now common in the stable, 
be employed. Supposing the abdomen to be larger than is desirable, its 
amendment should be controlled by condensed diet, and sufficient but 
easy exercise. An occasional drachm dose of iodide of iron, which 
medicine is both an absorbent and a tonic, may, at long intervals, be 
exhibited. Where costiveness prevails, a bran mash or two, with a 
bundle of green meat, would counteract the symptom. To improve 
the coat, liquor arsenicalis, in ounce doses, should be administered ; for 
this preparation operates upon the integument, by strengthening the 
body. 

The trainer may exclaim against green meat; but it does not retard 
condition or generate weakness like aloes, and if employed as a medicine, 
it is of all importance. Beyond the drugs mentioned, nothing should be 
given, save under professional advice : the lockers should be cleared of 
all medicinal agents. Other compounds are not quite abolished; but 
these should be exhibited only by the veterinary surgeon — the quad- 
ruped being physicked as little as possible. When trained after the 
method which has been indicated, all the dangers of the process would 
be avoided : the health, not the judgment of any interested individual, 
would declare whether the instructions had been obeyed, or the orders 
had been violated. Mystery and impudence would be rendered inoper- 
ative, and every animal started for a race should return to the post. 



*tO BREAKING AND TRAINING. 

Many of the starters should not, as now, be left, blown, crippled, or 
exhausted, in the middle of the course. 

There is an enemy which the trainer little suspects, but which affects 
the health and the honesty of his establishment. No regulation can be 
rigidly carried /out, when its adoption is dependent upon the whim and 
the humor of those undersized lads who lounge about the door of every 
training stable. These boys are not half employed : they delight to 
excel each other in "larks," in daring, and in mischief. They are very 
seldom trustworthy. The reason which causes them to be retained, is 
the lightness of their bodies. Their duty is to groom and to ride the 
animals which are placed under the trainer's charge. But the first busi- • 
ness is lightened by a series of unfeeling antics ; the last is the act which 
very few of these youths can properly perform. They get into the 
saddle and manage to remain there ; but how far they study anything 
more than that, is demonstrated by so few of the urchins being pro- 
moted to jockeys, for which calling the trainer's stable should be the 
regular entrance. 

Many a horse will refuse to win a race from stubbornness of temper. 
When the way is clear before it, the racer not unfrequently "shuts up," 
and cannot be induced to exert its abihty or to win. Whence is derived 
that perversity which loves to thwart the power a slave lives but to 
obey ? It is not natural to the breed or to the tribe. Pass through a 
flock of yearlings, and the path is interrupted, positively impeded, by a 
host of velvet noses, each demanding to be noticed. Way is difficult to 
be made through so much importunate affection ! However, walk down 
the gangway of the two-year old stalls in any trainer's stable, and " 'ware 
horse," "'ware heels," is frequently shouted out, while the excess of 
white displayed by each animal's eye palpably denotes the reason of the 
warning. 

The trainer may as well break the leg of a colt as ruin its temper. 
The spirit cannot be right, when the temper, which governs it, is per- 
manently warped. The power to win is of no service, if the inclination 
to exert it does not also exist. The boys tease and plague the creatures, 
whose fate is, by the rules of training, not so blissful as to admit of such 
insults being patiently endured. The act offends, and engenders a 
desire of resentment, which constitutes the "jolly fun" of the lads. 
The more excitable a colt may be, the more valuable it is likely to prove 
to its owner ; but in proportion to its value is the animal exposed to the 
pranks which may ruin its chances in the struggle. These things, of 
course, are not practiced with the trainer's knowledge ; but, nevertheless, 
they are all but universal, and will become more general if the custom 
of employing uneducated boys is not abolished. 



BREAKING AND TRAINING. ' 4Y1 

Another foolish practice is the starving all animals when most in need 
of support. This is common with racers and with hunters. When 
extra energy is imperative, the trainer, by his conduct, pursues the 
measure best calculated to destroy all inclination for exertion. The 
plea urged in defense of such folly is, that a loaded stomach oppresses 
the breathing. This is true enough ; but the evils which result from 
gluttony do not establish that good only can ensue upon starvation. 
Let the trainer experiment upon himself, and decide whether a lighi 
meal or no meal at all is the better preparation for an extraordinary 
performance. Many trainers assert that a full stomach rests upon the 
diaphragm, and thereby is detrimental to the respiration. This is a 
mistake. The digestive sac is pendent beneath the respiratory agent • 
a fact which an inspection of the annexed engraving will amply illus- 
trate. 




DIAGRAM, TO ILLUSTRATE THE RELATJVE POSITIO^fS OF THE STOMACH AND OF THE DIAPHRAGM. 

1. The lungs. 2. The stomach. 3. The intestiaes. 4. The diaphragm. 5. The bladder. 

If the horse is about to follow the* hounds, let a meal of concentrated 
nourishment be presented. This may consist of a quart of softened 
malt, or a two-pound stale loaf, moistened with fluid, or a few soaked 
ship biscuits, or anything of the like nature. This quantity must drive 
away the pangs of hunger, and the languor attending the sensation ; 
but the author confidently asserts the impossibility of such a repast 
• proving detrimental to the respiration. Then, let every gentleman, who 
follows the chase, put into each coat-tail pocket a penny loaf. When a 
check occurs, the rider should dismount, and, having soaked one portion 
of the bread in any brook or pool, present it to his steed. Such a quan- 



4'72 



BREAKING AND TRAINING. 



tity would be indeed only a snack ; but it would be a welcome refresh- 
ment. It would serve to repel the approach of inanition, and enable the 
quadruped to join with spirit in the next " break away." 

On the course, excess of weakness has lost many a race. TV hy should 
such a system be longer pursued ? Why are famishing; animals, when 
prostrated by the want of nourishment, enervated by actual hunger and 
by thirst, only considered qualified to exhibit fleetness ? Is not the idea, 
when plainly stated, a self-evident fallacy ? Nor is it the only error 




FED BETWEEN THE BURSTS. 



which besets the antiquated customs of the trainer. It is usual to 
change the shoes, in which the animal is to run, for what are termed 
"plates," or, in other words, for shoes so light that fearful accidents are 
reported to have occurred from these inadequate protectors of the hoof 
Such things have broken during the violence of the contest. Is there 
not a foppery in the notion of making a horse's shoe so slight that it 
shall lose its property of protection, to gain which advantage alone 
caused the animals to be shod ? » 

All men who have written about the horse agree in regarding the 
shoe as an evil only to be endured because of its necessity. Its chief 
injuries are accomplished by fettering the quarters as well as the heels, 
also by throwing the elastic frog out of use. Upon the action of these 
very parts of the horse's foot the bound, the spring, and the grace of the 



BREAKING AND TRAINING. 



4T3 



animal in no small degree depend. The operation of such organs should, 
therefore, be of more importance to the thorough-bred than they are to 
any other description of quadruped. Were these structures never fet- 
tered, but the colt left to comprehend their use, its agility would be 
increased, its stride would be lengthened, and its speed augmented. 

The racer chiefly employs the toe to bear weight upon, or this part 
has to endure nearly all the stress sustained by the hoof while the 
creature is running. Now, there are shoes known as "tips" which pro- 
tect the forward horn, but which leave the elasticity of the backward 
portions of the foot unfettered. This form of shoe is no novelty. It is 
no crotchet of the author's, pufifed into notice by a morbid fancy. It is 
very humiliating, but it is necessary to make such an acknowledgment, 
to take from a •recommendation all suspicion of the personal or inter- 
ested motives which are too frequently urged against those who advocate 
any improvement in stable practice. The author is impelled to make 
the suggestion simply by his interest in the subject. That the reader 
may comprehend the difference between the two forms of shoe, and re- 
spectively denominated a plate and a tip, the illustrations of each are 
here reproduced from the article on Shoeing. 






A MODERN RACING SHOE. 



AN ANCIENT RACING SHOE. 



A greater injury is inflicted, however, than has yet been named. 
Blood horses are often affected with brittle hoofs. This condition of 
horn renders the nailing on of shoes, even in ordinary cases, a matter 
of some difficulty. It is a principle with smiths never, if possible, to 
drive a nail twice into the same hole ; and these fastenings being made 
to pierce the hard outer covering of the wall, the hold is, at all times, in 
danger of breaking away ; but when the horn is abnormally dry or brit- 
tle, the nails can scarcely be rendered secure by any possible artifice. 

The kind of hoof which prevails among the breed renders it very 
desirable that the shoes generally worn should never be changed. Tips 
being of smaller size especially, if a bit of steel were let in upon the toe, 



474 



BREAKING AND TRAINING. 



if tlie shoe was formed of the very best metal, as the animal is invaria- 
bly exercised upon turf, need not be much heavier, if at all weightier, 
than the present racing plate. Any difference which possibly should 
exist would, however, be counterbalanced by a healthy condition of horn 
induced by the greater freedom that must be consequent upon an adop- 
tion of the proposed plan; while if a slight additional burden be im- 
posed, that must be much more than counteracted by the new organs to 
be brought into activity. The frog and the heels, which are now made 
useless, would lend lightness to the tread, and an ease of motion would 
thereby be secured. 

Another evil is produced by the peculiar notions which the order of 
trainers have for ages stubbornly adopted, and which gentlemen of edu- 
cation seem to have implicitly accepted. Man himself is not more gre- 
garious than the horse. Men congregate in towns ; but it is not unusual 




SUMMERED. 



to encounter the individual whose delight is solitude. The equine race, 
when free to exercise a choice, are always seen in flocks ; and a solitary 
animal is never to be met with. Yet it has been found that the severity 
of eight months' solitary imprisonment cannot be sustained by human 
culprits. The trainer, however, permits his countenance to radiate un- 
der the smiles of benevolence, when he talks of turning an animal into 



BREAKING AND TRAINING. 4*75 

a loose box and of granting the prisoner more than half a year of rest. 
He never appears to think, nor does his employer seem to think for him, 
whether such a notion be possible. No one, apparently, questions 
whether stagnation can be a punishment to the living embodiment of 
muscular activity ! We see the heads of quadrupeds, wearing the im- 
press of dejection and looking the images of hopeless misery, hanging 
over the doors of their cells ; but no one reads the lessons which such 
melancholy spectacles plainly indicate. The language of truth is not 
understood, and cruelty is perpetuated by ignorance. 

When such things are general through the land, is it not justice which 
has stigmatized England as "the hell of horses?" Does not the heart 
shudder, as it contemplates the sufferings which have for ages been per- 
petrated upon the most generous and most self-sacrificing of man's 
many helpmates ? Why doom a quadruped to months of positive stag- 
nation? What is it that converts the intended generosity, where the 
horse is concerned, into an excuse for actual torture ? Why is every act 
and every intent, when directed to this creature, made to augment and 
to increase its present load of most unmerited suffering ? 

Wherefore should the hunter, when the season is over, be shut up or 
cast aside, as though its life or its feelings were unworthy of considera- 
tion ? It would be better for the quadruped's health and its happiness, 
if the attentions to its personal comfort were continued. It would repay 
the trouble, were it regularly groomed, and fed upon the stable proven- 
der. Not turned into a box ; its body being, for half a year, uncleansed, 
and its health being debilitated by a superabundance of green fodder. 
It would thrive better, were it gently hacked by a considerate proprietor. 
Taken out occasionally, and quietly ridden down the shady green lanes 
of the neighborhood. Never bustled, but sometimes breathed over an 
even piece of turf Ridden always for pleasure, but never saddled when 
business is to be transacted. Such a life might not allow the groom so 
much leisure ; but it would materially lessen his labors when the hunting 
season approached. The animal would need but little "conditioning.''^ 
Improper sustenance would not have induced dropsy; nor would the 
joints have stiffened by a long period of enforced inactivity. 

In conclusion, no horse should be considered fit for general purposes 
until it has been educated to stand fire, — to hear the rush of sudden 
noises without alarm, and to remain quiet while a railway whistle is 
sounded by its rider. Were such things taught, how much misery 
would be avoided 1 But the public, as a body, have no faith in good- 
ness, although they profess to believe that the All-good is the All-wise. 

Does it not sound like a fabrication, to say that in the land where 
many barbarities are openly practiced by the higher orders of society, 



4Y6 BREAKING AND TRAINING. 

there should exist a combination, supported bj the rich, established to 
suppress cruelty when perpetrated by the lower classes ? The society 
alluded to should not be abolished. As an institution, it is right. But 
are the patrons in their proper positions, when punishing cruelty to 
animals? The highest personage heads both the doings of the race- 
course and the corporation which professes humanity. But which is 
worst — ^the sin which, for its pleasure, tortures the young, or the want 
which, hardened by adversity, disregards the pangs of the aged ? Let 
the society be continued; but let the race-course also be amended. 
Render it a rational amusement : let it no longer remain the dominion 
of vice, upheld for gambling purposes, and maintained by the heartless 
waste of that life of which man, in gratitude, should assert his right to 
be the natural protector. 



CHAPTER XV. 

CARRIAGES — THEIR COST, THEIR MAKE, THEIR EXCELLENCES, AND THEIR 

MANAGEMENT, 

The following particulars are derived from the highly respectable 
establishment of Edwin Kesterton, (late Horn,) a well-known firm which 
transacts business at No. 93 Long Acre. The writer is directly indebted 
for the facts now stated to the generosity of Mr. John Ronald, the gen- 
tleman to whose intelligence is intrusted the conduct of the before-named 
business. If an extended observance, assisted by years of experience, 
can lend value to information, certainly Mr. Ronald may advance a good 
plea to be heard when speaking upon such a topic. And the editor can- 
not forbear expressing a profound sense of personal obligation for the 
unreserved and satisfactory manner in which all statements were com- 
municated, and unhesitatingly submitted to the writer's discretion. In 
short, Mr. Ronald's mode of communicating his knowledge speedily 
gained the confidence of his listener; but as individual characteristics 
cannot be embodied in a written declaration, the circumstance is only 
mentioned, to assure the reader that the following details are worthy of 
his acceptance and deserving of his consideration. 

Carriages are of various kinds ; they diifer very widely as to cost. 
Every maker will manufacture every variety which may not be under 
the protection of the Patent Office. Certain houses, however, may be 
famed for a certain description of conveyances, — as that of Tilbury for 
the gig, which is known by the name of its inventor. 

The following statement of charges is to be regarded only as a prob- 
able approximation to the cost of those articles which are specified. 
Nothing assuming the form of a definite figure could be named, because 
the orders given by gentlemen are so essentially opposite. Thus one 
may be contented with a simple crest or two ; but another will insist 
that his vehicle shall display the fullest heraldic adornments. Such 
differences in taste regulate the extremes which divide the charges 
made for the same description of article when furnished by two equally 
respectable manufacturers. 

The gentlemen who profess Herald painting are remunerated accord- 

(47T) 



1T8 . CARRIAGES. 

ing to the time occupied, the amount of "work done, and the elaborateness 
of the design which has been executed. The scale maj, to the unini- 
tiated, appear to be gifted with a great power of expansibility ; but this 
quality must reside in every form of art. Heraldic painting demands 
extreme exactitude ; for no liberty is allowable in this practice. Every- 
thing is strictly defined. All examples must be rigidly followed. Con- 
sequently, such a pursuit must be no inconsiderable tax upon the 
memory, while occasionally it necessitates the most laborious research. 
Such qualifications, moreover, should be paid for, when exercised merely 
for the gratification of another. 

To convey a rough idea of the expense of heraldic ornamentation, it 
may be stated that two simple crests painted on a gig might, probably, 
be executed for fifteen shillings. Coats of arms — such as were usually 
seen on the panels of carriages — begin at two guineas ; but the more 
elaborate embellishments of this description — even should they demand 
no research and require no particular skill — cannot be executed at a less 
cost than eight or ten guineas. State vehicles, however, generally abound 
in fanciful adornments. These have exceeded, for heraldic painting alone, 
four or sometimes five hundred guineas. Such a sum has been paid for 
the time, the labor, and the talent bestowed upon a single carriage which, 
when thus embellished, could be seldom used ! 

The foregoing figures possibly may surprise most readers ; but there 
are several circumstances to be considered as tending to justify such 
charges. In the first place, the community of Heraldic Painters are few 
in number ; and the uninviting character of their studies, with the pro- 
longed probation to be undergone before the novice is permitted to prac- 
tice the art, will probably prevent the body from ever becoming a large 
association. Then, the employment of the proficients is very much regu- 
lated by fashion, which does not, at present, appear disposed to favor 
the display of family honors. The pursuit, when regarded by itself, 
may be liberally recompensed. Yet it is not an every-day necessity ; 
but, being once finished, the work will probably endure for years, while 
the vehicles upon which the resources of the art are most expended are 
not articles of general use. Few heraldic painters, therefore, accumulate 
fortunes; but the great majority live to repent having adopted that 
which the reader may have felt inclined to regard as an extravagantly 
remunerated calling. 

Also, connected with the carriage builder's trade is a still smaller body 
of industrious and of deserving persons known as Coach Draftsmen. 
These are the artists who labor upon those neat and picturesque draw- 
ings which are always submitted for the approval of that gentleman 
who may order a new vehicle to be built. 



CARRIAGES. 479 

The primary requisite for such a profession is firmness, combined with 
extreme delicacy of touch ; an eye capable of appreciating the nicer rules 
of art, united to a mind fully endued with the elements of grace, or with 
that flow of line which is inseparable from all elegance of design. None 
of these qualities can be dispensed with in the person who embraces the 
pursuit. Much of the drawing is, no doubt, executed according to 
measure and to rule, or is purely mechanical; but the qualities which 
alone can fit an artist for eminence in his peculiar calling are assuredly 
governed by something very different from and far higher than the 
patient employment of the compass. 

Prior to considering the cost attending the manufacture of various 
vehicles, it may be proper to state some of the reasons that render an 
admirably built carriage apparently so expensive. While this is being 
done, the reader is requested to remember that the present time has 
frequently been designated as that of competition. Artificers are said 
to have become too numerous for all the members of any trade to live 
by the practices of honesty. The people following a particular business 
are reported to be more than half employed in cutting one another's 
throats. We are told that no sooner does the tradesman establish a 
thriving traffic, than another starts an opposition, and under-sells him. 

Certainly there is no realizing those snug profits which our fathers 
talked about having secured, during the termination of the last and the 
beginning of the present century. Carriage builders are not few in 
number, neither do they constitute a close society. They are numerous 
as a trade, and each member of the calling is eager to transact business. 
Still, the prices are not lowered by the spirit of competition. A good 
article is yet worth nearly the same money which it has always cost; 
and the patience of the reader is earnestly requested while an attempt 
is being hazarded to explain the cause of so prominent a peculiarity. 

Before a carriage can be properly built, the conjunction of many dis- 
tinct callings is imperative. They must all work together, and should 
all be actuated by harmony of spirit. The various parts are almost in- 
numerable ; but each must be adjusted with the minutest nicety. To 
collect, to retain, and to practice a body of men in such united labor to a 
common end ; to entice artisans, who can exhibit the perfection of their 
crafts, to relinquish all idea of individuality or of independence ; and to 
induce such people to blend their efforts or to allow only one spirit to 
actuate a large society, — is no mean undertaking. Yet this must be 
accomplished; nor is that all, for such contrary elements must be re- 
tained, each mutually assisting the other. 

As the proprietor succeeds in accomplishing this object, so will be his 
success in the coach building business. Let the reader, howeverj under- 



480 CARRIAGES. 

stand that a good set of workmen is not the only necessity required for 
this business. The tradesman must be himself distinguished by the 
loftiest of human attributes. He must be also willing to sink his indi- 
viduality in his pursuit, and must be ambitious only for a general result. 
The coach builder works with very expensive woods, the original cost 
of which is materially increased by the lengthened periods that these 
articles have to be kept before being used. The time required to season 
thoroughly a piece of timber, for the choicest of ordinary trades, would 
be altogether insufficient for the coach builder's purposes. Wood must 
not only be seasoned, but it must be rendered so perfectly hard or dry 
as shall make shrinking or warping, even in the slightest degree, totally 
impossible. 

Such a necessity compels the coach builder to keep a large stock of 
the timber which he employs. This wood, when introduced to the work- 
shop, must be in a state of the utmost perfection. It must be possessed 
of the greatest strength and the most approved hardness which its fiber 
is capable of exhibiting. Those characteristics can only be attained 
where the material is particularly fine in grain. Of course, such a 
quality makes the substance specially retentive of that moisture which 
circulated throughout every product of the vegetable world. This last 
property gives rise to the necessity which obliges every log to be so long 
kept before the tradesman dare have the wood admitted within the pre- 
cincts of his estabhshed manufactory. 

The tools employed to cut such timber must needs be of exquisite 
temper, and of course are equally costly to purchase. Moreover, the 
simple cutting of wood almost as hard as metal is not sufficient. The 
workmen must be capable of adapting the various parts so closely that 
these shall, when put together, possess the strength of one entire piece. 
The several junctures must be imperceptible either to sight or to touch; 
the different portions must fit as though they grew together. No 
amount of jolting, no possible shaking should cause the work to yield 
even a hair's breadth. Should the carriage be injured, though of course 
the paint must be damaged, nevertheless the frame should remain firm. 
Every part of the vehicle should be formed to endure the rudest treat- 
ment; should be able to sustain, uninjured, the long rattling over the 
roughest of country roads. Unless his products can bear such usage, 
no tradesman need write "Coach Builder" subsequent to his name. 

The tools sold to carriage builders are quite distinct from those manu- 
factured for the cabinet-maker or the joiner. The first articles are known 
by diSerent names, and are kept as a distinct class of superior goods. 
An ordinary chest of such tools, possessed by every average journey- 
man, could not be purchased under thirty, or probably forty pounds. 



CARRIAGES. 481 

This price, in order that it may be justly appreciated, must be regarded 
in connection with the class of men to whom it refers ; also it must be 
considered in association with the facts — that workmen provide their 
own tools, and that each man is confined to one particular species of 
toil ; that the members of every shop often borrow and as frequently 
lend; and that every tradesman is educated to adopt various resources, 
Thus one instrument is often compelled to serve several uses. 

An ordinary carriage builder can generally command two guineas a 
week. That sum, however, does not fairly represent the earning of all 
workmen, when view;ed as members of one body. Most clever artificers 
will not engage by the period ; but they prefer to be paid by the piece. 
A person of no more than average talent, when employed at piece-work 
on the ordinary run of jobs, can gain from two to three guineas by six 
days' toil. Thus every man in the trade has a direct stimulus to im- 
provement, the higher wages being a constant spur to excite the work- 
people, none but the better sort of whom are engaged on the more 
remunerative labor. 

Then, of the many trades which the coachmaker employs, each must 
be the perfection of its order. The upholstery must not be merely tacks 
or tacking. All must be sewn with the stoutest thread, and nailed with 
an intention that it should never loosen. The smith's work must be 
forged with an exactitude which is little expected in the general sphere 
of the anvil. The painting and the varnishing must be carried to the 
refinement of possible finish. In short, the best of many opposite call- 
ings must be united before a carriage manufactory can be instituted. 

The business which necessitates the junction of such adverse kinds of 
perfection, of course cannot be conducted cheaply. The climax of ability 
is a commodity which will always command a ready sale, and for which, 
in every market, there is never a lack of bidders. He who wishes to 
obtain it, must not, therefore, haggle about remuneration ; but be pre- 
pared to meet its demands with liberality. That circumstance, taken in 
conjunction with the expensive nature of all the materials he employs, 
disables the coachmaker, who is anxious to do justice to his patron and 
to himself, from producing a cheap article. 

A full dress coach or chariot, such as once were the only conveyances 
permitted to approach St. James's Palace on a Drawing Room day, 
cannot be properly made for a less sum than four hundred guineas ; if 
the taste of the customer should be very fastidious, either article may 
cost seven or even eight hundred guineas. A state carriage must be 
charged for according to its adornments, which can almost be carried to 
any extent. 

The state carriage which was built to order for a particular monarch 

31 



482 



CARRIAGES. 



had solid silver let in upon its exterior ; while the ground was composed 
of the choicest colors, overlaid by the most exquisite decorative painting. 




A DRESS CAERIAOE. 



A CHARIOT. 



The charge for this toy was seven thousand guineas. The Sheriffs of 
London, however, manage to ride in a state carriage at a more economi- 
cal rate. Their vehicles are commonly hired for the year of office ; and 
the expense is only varied by that amount of adornment which each new 
dignitary may please to command. The ordinary charges are seldom 
lower than eighty guineas, and are rarely higher than one hundred and 
sixty guineas. 




A BAROUCHE. 



A LANDAU. 



A neatly -built step-piece barouche is certainly an elegant conveyance, 
though, at the present moment, hardly so popular as it was a few years 
ago. Yehicles, like most other things, are subject to the arbitrary dic- 
tates of fashion, and this circumstance renders the coachmaker's stock, 
which must at all times be costly, particularly hazardous. However, 
the risk which is inseparable from the character of the trade must be 
covered by the profit account when the books are balanced. A good 
barouche is an expensive luxury; since this conveyance cannot be 
manufactured under one hundred and sixty guineas, while it may, with- 
out much extravagance, be easily made to cost two hundred and twenty 
guineas. 

The landau, which has now become almost the exclusive property of 
the ladies, is even more expensive than the barouche. But with this 
fact it may be necessary also to state that the landau requires to be 
especially well built, and. must be highly finished in every part. It 



CARRIAGES. 



483 



ought to be particularly light in appearance, and so nicely balanced 
upon its springs that, though perfectly firm, the touch from a finger 
nevertheless could set the body in motion. Such properties necessitate 
the very best workmanship which can be procured, even in the carriage 
trade. Consequently, this kind of conveyance cannot be properly raised 
for a less price than two hundred guineas; but as the feminine taste 
appears to be more cheaply satisfied than are the masculine desires, the 
cost of an ordinary landau seldom rises above two hundred and fifty 
guineas. 




A CAKRIAGE WITHOUT C SPRINGS. 



A BROUGHAM. 



A coach without the circular springs, or C springs, as they are com- 
monly called, and also wanting a dickey or seat behind, is now manufac- 
tured according to various patterns. This kind of conveyance is, at 
present, frequently encountered in the streets of London. Of course, it 
is difficult to name the price of an article which is generally built in ac- 
cordance with some arbitrary command, and which is not governed by 
any acknowledged regulation. The cost, therefore, can only be controlled 
by the time, the labor, and the materials which are expended in the con- 
struction ; but this may be roughly calculated at something between one 
hundred and ninety and three hundred guineas. Such, however, are 
light and pleasant carriages, sufficiently roomy to ride at ease in, and 
not difficult to propel. They are rapidly ascending on the scale of 
public favor. 

Broughams seem to be made of various forms : some vehicles bearing 
this name are very little better than the more cleanly order of street cabs. 
But such a brougham as no gentleman need be ashamed to own, or need 
blush to see his crest emblazoned on, should be built for one hundred 
and thirty to one hundred and eighty guineas. These vehicles have 
been much improved of late. They were formerly manufactured of 
a weight which was a severe tax upon the strength of one horse, and 
they were at once vulgar both in appearance and in size. The draught 
has been greatly diminished, while the aspect has been so far improved 
ds to advance a claim to elegance. Those proprietors who still cling to 
a brougham which can accommodate more than two persons usually 



484 CARRIAGES. 

have tte equipage drawn by two small horses. The carriage, thus pro- 
pelled, looks showy, and is moved with perfect ease. 

A mail phaeton may occasionally be seen driven through the park. 
But this form of vehicle is not now so mtich used as it was a few years 
ago ; but when well appointed, it certainly has a most aristocratic ap- 
pearance. Few ladies, however, like to ride in such a conveyance, 
unless they occupy a seat in the front compartment, and are accom- 
panied by the husbands, who are driving. Such a prejudice consigns 
half of this carriage to the servants, while the length of the phaeton 
renders its draught so heavy as to necessitate the employment of two 
horses. Custom, therefore, makes these vehicles expensive to the pro- 
prietors, although the first cost is not so large as the style suggests. 
One hundred and forty guineas or one hundred and sixty guineas will 
generally cover the purchase of the mail phaeton. 





A MAIL PHAEION. A FOUR-WHEELED BOO CART. 

The four-wheeled "dog cart" has lately come into general use. Such 
conveyances possess a more gentlemanly, and have an infinitely less 
dangerous appearance, than the two-wheeled "turn outs" bearing a 
similar designation. When driven with a pair of spirited horses, they 
may proceed at almost any pace with perfect ease and safety ; running 
very light, yet affording ample accommodation for every portion of the 
load, and looking the perfection of a sporting "concern." They are, 
moreover, when compared with the sums at which the more showy 
properties of most carriages are purchased, not to be esteemed expen- 
sive. A good article of this description can be bought for seventy 
guineas, and the most elaborated seldom costs more than one hundred 
and twenty guineas. 

Gigs of different denominations are mostly of one price. This figure 
ranges from forty to seventy guineas. It matters not the shape, whether 
it be a Stanhope or a two-wheeled dog cart, the expense is pretty much 
the same. The last form of vehicle is now coming into very general 
use ; but when fully loaded, it appears dangerous, and is a severe tax 
upon animal strength when driven at the rate which most drivers seem 
to prefer. Hence the obvious origin of the four-wheeled dog cart, which. 



CARRIAGES. ^S^ 

when harnessed to a pair of horses, is free from those objections that the 
original form of this conveyance invariably suggested. 





A TWO-WHEELED DOQ CART. 



A well-built carriage is, consequently, a rather expensive convenience ; 
but, unfortunately for the honest tradesmen, few persons are qualified to 
advance an opinion upon the conveyance. The reader, therefore, must 
accord his indulgence while the author endeavors to explain the points 
which characterize a well-manufactured article. In the first place, the 
wheels should revolve without perceptibly varying from the line which 
they indicated when the carriage was stationary and the tires were 
viewed from behind. They should not, during rotation, incline either to 
the right or to the left, for if they, when in motion, alter even a hair's 
breadth from such a line, it is proof positive that the wheels are faulty. 
They should move slowly and quickly without making the slightest 
sound : they should glide noiselessly over all even surfaces, and with no 
more audible disturbance than is unavoidable, they should travel, at the 
most rapid pace, over the roughest highway. 

The body should be poised so evenly as will answer to the gentlest 
force, and be readily swayed by more violent action ; but however ex- 
cited it may be, the body should never lean to either side, and, the im- 
petus being arrested, it should speedily become stationary. All the 
parts should be firmly united. When violently urged, the movements 
should elicit no creaking ; the steps should not jingle ; the windows 
should not rattle ; and, above all, when the outlets are shut, a person 
inside should be incommoded by no perceptible draught. 

That time may not injure such properties, the coach-house should be 
warm, should be well aired, and should be perfectly dry. Damp is 
ruinous to the paint, to the ornaments, and, in short, to every part of a 
conveyance. As the most used carriage must be a greater number of 
hours within its house than it can possibly be abroad, so for the larger 
portion of its existence is it exposed to the operation of those enemies 
(when any exist) which will be silently destroying. The length of time 
which a vehicle improperly housed may endure, will of course greatly 
be dependent upon the amount of evil with which it has to contend ; 
but only a moderate degree of moisture will so speedily tarnish as shall 



486 . CARRIAGES. 

necessitate restoration at least twelve months prior to the usual season 
for that renovating process, 

A good coach-house should neither by door nor by window communi- 
cate with the stable. Such openings are usually present in most London 
buildiags, and are evidently allowed either from thoughtlessness or from 
a greater feeling for the servant's convenience than regard for that which 
the servant is engaged to keep in order. The fumes of the stable prin- 
cipally consist of ammonia or of the volatile alkali. These emanations, 
from manure made pungent by the exclusion of atmospheric air, are 
very insidious in their effects, and are much more destructive than either 
of the fixed anti-acids, potash or soda. 

Most coachmen are aware that the employment of soap, in any form, 
is injurious to paint and to varnish. Soap, however, is a salt, or consists 
of an alkali, which is neutralized or combined with a fatty acid. Still 
alkali, even in this shape, should not be applied to any conveyance. 
The idea of dissolving potash or soda in water, and then employing the 
liquid to cleanse the family carriage, appears to be so preposterous as to 
be rejected even by the ingenious ignorance of the stable. But a single 
application of the last agents would do less damage than the long ex- 
posure of a vehicle to the more penetrating fumes of gaseous ammonia. 

Another subject of much importance to the carriage interest — but 
one not generally considered by the majority of proprietors — is the kind 
of water with which the stable is supplied. Coachmen commonly think 
to counteract the ill eff'ecta of bad water upon the horses, by exposing 
pails filled with the liquid, for some hours, within the tainted interior of 
the stable. But the fluid is more likely to become foul from the impuri- 
ties which it can there absorb, than for the action of ammoniacal gas to 
amend the properties or to correct the evil qualities of the liquid. 

Hard water, especially that which is impregnated with a solution of 
any mineral substance, is equally prejudicial to the health of animals and 
to the beauty of vehicles. Such should never be employed in any stable. 
Soft water or river water is alone suited for either purpose. Pipe water, 
or water which has traveled far in leaden tubes, is frequently impure ; 
while pump or well water should always be avoided. 

This may to many readers appear a trivial matter to be so energeti- 
cally enforced ; but as all the comforts of life are only secured by atten- 
tion to those particulars which surround existence, certainly the pocket 
of the master is concerned in the conditions to which his carriage is 
exposed. 

Many gentlemen, however, will permit the servants to ruin the best- 
made carriage, and then blame the builder, because his work is capable 
of being abused. When the family returns home at midnight, after the 



CARRIAGES. 481 

necessities of the horses have been attended to, the vehicle should be 
thoroughly sluiced with cold water, so that not a speck of dirt remain 
clinging to the paint. At whatever hour the residence may be reached, 
this operation should never be neglected. The free and copious employ- 
ment of fluid floated over the varnish is imperative, and (as will be 
explained hereafter) prevents serious damage. 

There is no occasion, at so late a period, when extreme hours have 
probably indisposed the servants for exertion, that the carriage should 
be regularly cleansed with brush, mop, and pail ; but a large watering- 
pot, kept ready for such uses, will, in a very brief space and without 
much trouble, pour forth a steady stream of liquid, and float off the 
loose fresh mud by the simple action of gravitation. This done, the 
superabundant moisture will have run off the varnish, which was first 
sluiced, and the surface may be roughly dried with a sponge. All being 
accomplished, the coachman may safely delay his regular routine of 
duties until he rises on the following morning. 

The reason which necessitates a carriage to be immediately washed, 
whenever it returns home soiled, is quickly stated. If wet mud be per- 
mitted to continue and to dry upon the surface, a white, opaque spot 
will afterward indicate the place to which the dirt adhered. Moreover, 
a vehicle which is invariably left in its coat of filth until the following 
morning, always requires repainting and revarnishing twelve months, 
and very often two years, before the general period for restoration, when 
the opposite and the more careful measures are adopted. 

Should a carriage have to wait the convenience of its master, it should 
never rest in the full blaze of the sunshine. Where a choice is possible, 
the careful servant always withdraws into the shade. It is even worth 
while that pride should so far sacrifice its feelings as to sanction such a 
precaution ; for the cool shadow is not only more pleasant for the horses, 
but is infinitely better than the extreme of glare and heat for the convey- 
ance to which the animals are harnessed. 

The excess of light causes the varnish to crack, and removes the gloss 
from the smartest vehicle. The smooth and the highly polished surface 
suffers ; this, of course, injures the deeper structures. Should the carriage 
have been purchased from an honest builder, there is small danger of 
any degree of warmth affecting the main structure ; but if the custom 
of standing in the sunshine is sanctioned, the paint will not last longer 
than three years, while, even for that period, the effect will not be good'; 
since the cracks in the varnish serve as gutters wherein soil will ac- 
cumulate. 

The well-built body of a regular carriage should remain together 
while three sets of wheels are used up. The arbitrary dictates of 



i88 CARRIAGES. 

fashion, however, interfere with the economy which was, formerly, gen- 
erally observed. Few, save the titled or the old aristocratic families, at 
present keep what once was the recognized build of every private car- 
riage. The conveyances now manufactured for the moneyed and the 
respectable classes are built according to no common model; but the 
forms are moulded by the dictates of most arbitrary caprice. The article 
therefore which, when it was newly built, excited surprise and kindled 
emulation, shall, before it has existed eight years, provoke contempt, 
as a lumbering concern altogether behind the spirit of the age. Con- 
sequently, the duration being limited, (and a set of wheels being cal- 
culated, with ordinary work and care, to last four years,) not many of 
the lighter and more novel vehicles can be used for a longer period than 
suffices to wear two-thirds of the stated number. 

A set of wheels hardly ever cost the same price, when made for ve- 
hicles of different descriptions. A brougham and a carriage both 
possess four wheels ; yet the charges made for each kind are very op- 
posite. The wheels proper for a carriage cost fourteen or twenty 
guineas ; whereas those which are fittest for a brougham can be made 
for ten guineas. Then, again, the gig requires only two wheels ; but 
the pair are generally sold at six guineas. These variations are regu- 
lated by the extent of the circumference, the substance necessitated, and 
by many particulars which the reader can readily imagine. Wheels are, 
therefore, somewhat expensive; a fresh supply is rendered the more 
costly, because the newness of one part makes imperative the renovation 
of the whole ; although some persons avoid such a consequence by 
having the wheels and the body of a carriage of different colors. How- 
ever, such piebald affairs always betray the intention, and the idea of 
exposing a personal meanness has, hitherto, prevented the practice from 
being generally adopted. 

The good and the careful coachman can only display the value of his 
services when there is no stint of those appliances which are imperative 
for the proper exercise of his calling. It is always necessary that the 
master's economy should afford no ready excuse for neglect of duty in 
the servant. This is important, because no domestic, excepting the 
groom, has such valuable and such perishable property intrusted to his 
discretion. Paint and varnish are not enduring commodities. Most 
London houses are redecorated every third year; with all care, a car- 
riage will appear respectable but one term longer. 

For the proper discharge of his duties, the coachman requires three 
sponges and three leathers for the body of the vehicle. One sponge to 
cleanse the coarser dirt from the carriage ; another to remove any linger- 
ing soil; while the third serves to render the surface somewhat dry, 



CARRIAGES. 



489 




A WHEEL SETTER. 



previous to the employment of the leathers. For the wheels a setter, 

or a machine to raise them from the ground, cannot be dispensed with ; 

a mop and a pail to remove the dirt; a 

brush to cleanse the angles ; also sponges 

and leathers to thoroughly purify or polish 

the surface — all are needed. There should 

also be a superior brush for the lining; 

and another brush, with an additional 

leather, to brighten the brass or plated 

ornaments upon the exterior. 

To polish the last, no preparation ex- 
cels prepared chalk, when mixed with soap 
and water. It thoroughly removes every 

impurity, without sensible wear of the substance to which it is applied. 
In this last particular, it possesses an immense advantage over the gritty 
pastes sold for the purpose of polishing metals ; for this material acta 
chemically and mechanically on such surfaces. The prepared chalk may, 
moreover, be purchased at every chemist's, the charge commonly being 
a shilling for the pound ; while the other ingredients are found -in every 
household. 

In one respect, few servants are sufficiently careful. They imagine 
whitening and other filths are indispensable when glass is to be cleaned. 
The prejudice originates in ignorance ; for glass requires nothing except 
two leathers, or a sponge and a leather, to render it perfectly bright. 
The first article should be merely moist, the intention being to loosen 
or to remove the superficial dirt. After this has been accomplished, the 
dry leather is brought into play to cleanse and to polish the metal. By 
such an easy and so simple a resort are prevented those accumulations 
round the edges of windows, and the soiled condition of the frames 
which disgrace too many carriages, and which certainly would generate 
no regret if rendered altogether impossible. 

The lining does not need so much care as might be imagined. Unless 
the weather be hot and the roads very dusty, it will hardly require more 
than a single brushing. A brown hoUand cover for the interior has 
become general ; but such a thing, when soiled, should never be sent to 
the family washerwoman. The article may come home washed, starched, 
and ironed to perfection ; but in these processes it is sadly stretched and 
pulled out of shape. The holland never sets well afterward, and very 
speedily requires the cleansing to be repeated. 

The proper method, and not the dearest in the end, is to return such 
things to the carriage-maker, by whom such matters are understood; 
the article will be returned cleansed and calendered, looking like new 



490 



CARRIAGES. 



materiul and with no part strained or stretched till it does not fit into 
its lelative situation. 

When speaking of cleaning, it may be as well to caution the reader 
against purchasing the requisites for cleaning his carriage of the nearest 
tradesman or at the cheapest shop. Such goods should all be of a supe- 
rior description, or of a kind which is not encountered in the stock of 
most dealers. They cannot be purchased for a less sum than three 
pounds ten shillings, if the quality is to be excellent ; and it is always 
better to commission the carriage builder to procure them than to risk 
obtaining worthless articles. 

Most vehicles, whether mounted upon two or four wheels, are furnished 
with mats or small carpets, though the nature of these articles are better 

"represented by such things being desig- 
nated "rugs." These "rugs" are com- 
monly of two sorts : one kind being 
known as "Brussels," the other being 
termed "pile." The last, of any figure, 
always strike the beholder as not hav- 
ing been specially made for the situation 
which the article occupies. The Brus- 
sels are not open to the same objection, 
having an ornamental center, surrounded 
by a complex border. However, the 
coachman should always carefully at- 
tend to the rug every morning; because, as the pavement has to be 
crossed every time the passenger leaves or enters the conveyance, that 
upon which the feet rest is more likely to be soiled than any other 
portion of the interior. 

Moist mud upon the surface of the rug should never be interfered 
with. The soil should invariably be permitted to become dry prior to 
its removal being attempted. Then the offending patch is more quickly 
displaced by rubbing the sides smartly together, or by passing a clean 
besom briskly but not heavily over the place, than by those numerous 
gentler measures which occupy more time in performance and are more 
wearing in their operation. All dirt being removed, no further brushing 
is required ; but the rug, after having been beaten against any door post, 
(but that of the stable,) may be replaced in the carriage. All rugs should 
be similarly treated, and should be always removed every morning; be- 
cause grit will necessarily accumulate upon the floor, and thus cause 
much more wear than can be occasioned by the feet alone. 

As concerns those things which the wheels require, the coachman 
should observe three matters, which are all specially important : screw- 




A PILE AND A BRUSSELS CARRIAGE CARPET 
PLACED TOGETHER. 



CARRIAGES. 491 

ing on the box or the central cover; oiling the axletrees; and perpetu- 
ally noticing the wear which the tire, or the marginal rim of metal, 
undergoes. With regard to the box, that should be screwed until the 
wheel turns steadily, evenly, and pleasantly. Should sensible effort be 
requisite to put the wheel in motion, the necessity for force is proof posi- 
tive that the box has been screwed too tightly, or that it has been made 
to press too hardly against the wheel, which it should merely help to 
retain in its position. Such a compression, acting upon all four of the 
wheels, will increase the draught threefold, the action being the same as 
a break when it is applied to check the perilous downward progress of 
any vehicle. 

Inferior axle-trees soon wear with the friction of the wheels which 
rotate upon them. Colins's (expired patent) are, perhaps, the best; 
though the choice is somewhat extensive, and there is no article of this 
description which does not possess some merit. When the box will not 
screw steadily, and the case-hardening of the axle has worn off, the 
wheel is not, as many persons imagine, imminently dangerous; but its 
rotation becomes uneven, and the motion of the carriage is rendered less 
pleasant to the rider. The greasing or the oiling of the wheels, when 
the work is of the ordinary duration and character, is performed suffi- 
ciently often, if done once in three months. Quicker progression neces- 
sitates more constant attention; and the axles of a conveyance driven 
notoriously fast had better be inspected every week. 

Coachmen are not commonly negligent concerning such particulars. 
Neglect, however, would cause the grease to assume a solid form, and 
impede the motion. This effect causes an extra drag upon the collars 
of the horses ; and gentlemen, when the vehicle moves slowly, should, 
upon reaching home, see that the axles are properly greased, and the 
boxes are not screwed too hardly. 

The tires will sometimes outlast the wheels; but all depends upon 
the distance covered, the weight drawn, and the pace at which the 
vehicle is driven. Some gentlemen — especially medical gentlemen in 
full practice — will wear through a set of tires in eight or nine months, 
when the orders given are to move fast, and four changes are required 
to get through the daily visits. However, no person should risk riding 
in a carriage when the tires become perceptibly thin or loose. 

Small lamps are a mistake. Diminutive lanterns may in some eyes 
look prettier during daytime ; but when they are used, the confined space 
does not allow the amount of oxygen to enter the interior which is re- 
quired to support the flame. The consequences are, diminished brilliancy 
and an abundance of smoke. The glasses become speedily soiled and 
the reflectors deadened. A lamp of sufficient size is not without its 



402 



CARRIAGES. 




A LARGE AND A SMALL LAMP. 



recommendations, as, even in daylight, it lends purpose and dignity to 

the vehicle which it adorns. At night it 
will nourish the flame, and cause the re- 
flectors to shine forth with almost dazzling 
eff"ulgence. 

That it may do this, however, it is im- 
perative the proper kind of candles be con- 
sumed. Of candles, there are two kinds 
sold for carriages. One, which is the 
cheaper, is a composition that soon soft- 
ens under the combined effect of confined 
heat and strongly reflected flame. The 
light is not bad, but, nevertheless, is far 
from brilliant ; while the want of an essential property makes the candle 
dear, even when purchased at a lower price. The other light is the old, 
stout, wax candle, which, if procured from a respectable dealer, will kurn 
brightly, and scarcely be affected, with regard to firmness, after the longest 
night journey has terminated. 

The carriage, when in the coach-house, should be covered and pro- 
tected from soil by a large brown holland envelope. Under such a pro- 
tection, it is usually placed with every door and window closed. The 
consequence is, that too many vehicles strike cold when entered, and 
communicate to the passenger a damp or musty smell. The interior is 
foul with imprisoned air ; and custom conserves the moisture natural to 
confinement. The appendage suggestive of luxury is thus rendered a 
dangerous possession. 

The brown holland covering will exclude the dust. Always, there- 
fore, leave the windows wide open whenever the carriage is in the house. 
The atmosphere of such a locality should be warm and dry. It will 
sweeten the interior, within which four people may have been seated 
and breathing for upwards of an hour on the night before, when the rain 
fell in torrents. It will freshen up the padded linings, and the mistress 
will be grateful for the care which the coachman has bestowed upon her 
comfort. 

The owners of carriages are not sufficiently careful when engaging 
the stable attendant. They often will, if there be a vehicle to look after, 
without hesitation hire a groom to perform the duty. When this is 
done, the gentleman infers that the man who can dress horses must 
necessarily comprehend everything that concerns the carriage to which 
horses are harnessed. Such an inference is certainly not warranted by 
fact. A good groom professes to understand only horses ; and servants 
of this description are the coachmaker's aversion. It would assuredly 



CARRIAGES. 493 

be better for many parties could proprietors condescend to exercise a 
little more caution in this particular; as a capable dependent alone 
ought to be created potentate over all the contents of the stable. 

All that essentially concerns a carriage having now been stated, the 
subject, as the reader will have perceived, is not remarkably difficult to 
understand. A few questions, therefore, put to the candidate for a situa- 
tion, would speedily elicit whether the applicant comprehended the duties 
of that office which he aspired to undertake. Ignorance can by its mis- 
doing prove quite as harmful as the most designing malice. Much money 
and no little vexation would be spared could gentlemen practice a rea- 
sonable precaution before trusting in the discretion of a stranger. 

It was formerly a rule among the trade to allow five per cent, every 
year off the employer's bill as a gratuity to the servant. This custom 
was general, not only with the carriage builder, but with all persons who 
had dealings with the stable. It even extended to those whose services 
were only occasionally retained, involving the veterinary surgeon, the 
shoeing smith, etc. The reason upon which such a habit was based 
being a desire to bribe the coachman, that he might damage what the 
trades-people would be required to repair ; or, at all events, it was a fee 
commonly paid, hoping it would encourage the extravagance which it 
was the master's interest to restrain. "The good old days," however, 
are past I Most carriage builders have learned, from experience, their 
best interests are promoted not by the fragility, but by the enduring 
quality of those articles which they supply. Most proprietors also know 
how long a sound conveyance should endure, as well as what ought to 
be the average cost for repairs. 

The more respectable houses, even now, certainly give trifling presents 
to the deserving domestics whom they encounter ; but such presents are 
bestowed rather to induce care than to encourage willful damage of the 
manufacture, for the tear and wear of which the donor is responsible. 
In proof of this, the head of an establishment may frequently be seen 
walking about, restless with pleasurable emotions, when a vehicle which 
was built by his house shall last a month or two over the regular period 
for renewal; and the servant would therefore find he had embarked in a 
losing speculation, who should damage his master's property with the 
intent of increasing his occasional gratuity. 



CHAPTER XVI. 

SADDLERY, HARNESS, AND STABLE SUNDRIES — OF WHAT THESE CONSIST; 
THEIR AP^ICATION AND THEIR PRESERVATION. 

The ensuing particulars were communicated by Mr. Thomas Sains- 
bury, Junr., the skillful foreman to a well-known and old-established 
firm — Messrs. Gibson & Co., of Coventry Street, Leicester Square. 
Proceeding from so trustworthy a source, the information cannot other- 
wise than merit implicit confidence ; for when descanting on the above 
subject, the author, being anxious to state only facts, deemed it better to 
seek instructions from an established tradesman rather than to employ 
such knowledge as he himself possessed; since, not being acquainted 
with every branch of the business, his opinions must necessarily be more 
or less speculative, or based upon probabilities. Having enjoyed the 
benefit of Mr. Sainsbury's unreserved communications, the writer rejoices 
at the resolution which he had formed ; and can only tender his sincerest 
thanks to Messrs. Gibson & Co. for the extreme liberality they have 
evinced throughout the transaction. 

Saddlery and harness making are two distinct branches of one occu- 
pation. Saddlery strictly implies only that furniture which fits a steed 
for the uses of its rider. Harness making signifies the manufacture of 
those trappings which are employed upon animals of draught. There 
are, also, other subdivisions recognized by the trade ; but on the present 
occasion these need not be particularly enlarged upon. 

Many men are expert at either kind of manufacture ; but the best 
workmen are those who devote themselves to one particular branch of 
the trade. Such can only find remunerative employment with the 
masters who can afford to keep an artisan constantly employed at the 
work in which he excels. 

Saddlers justly complain that a horse cannot be accurately fitted when 
the animal is fresh from a dealer's stable. A good saddle should be so 
exquisitely adapted to the body on which it is placed as scarcely to be 
moved, even by the action of the limbs. A tradesman approaches per- 
fection, therefore, in proportion as his trappings cleave to the trunk for 
C494) 




SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 495 

which they are manufactured. Such a desideratum necessitates that a 
precise measurement should be taken. Not only is length and breadth 
required, but the curves or shape of the body are also needed. The 
material employed by saddle-makers to ascertain such particulars is 
equally simple and effective. It consists merely of a narrow slip of 
pliable sheet-lead, about two feet long, and doubled in the center, like 
a pair of compasses. Such a material will preserve the outline of that 
body on which it may be compressed,, and is sufficiently solid to retain 
any indentations made upon its substance ; thus it possesses those 
attributes which to the saddler are essentials. 

With such an article, the shape of the barrel, the sweep of the shoul- 
ders, and the hollow of the back can be accurately moulded, while even 
particulars can be ascertained; for lead 
demands little pressure to assume the 
figure of any substance over which it is 
bent, and will subsequently remain suf- 
ficiently fixed to permit of the lines, 
which have been modeled, being traced 
upon a sheet of paper. This process a sabdie-tree with the spring stirrup 

,111 11 11, ^^^ ATTACHED. 

should always be observed ; but when 

a saddle has to be made, it does not constitute the "be all and the end 
all" of the tradesman's duty. The tree, or the wooden base of the future 
article, should invariably be tried on the horse before the furnishing is 
proceeded with, because a saddle cannot possibly be perfect when the 
foundation of the structure shall prove defective, and any error is more 
easily corrected before the article be further complicated. 

Nevertheless, it is obvious folly to have a saddle or a harness fitted to 
a quadruped while the body is loaded with fat, as the majority of horses 
are when fresh from the dealer's yard. At first no part should be accu- 
rately adjusted, but margin should be allowed for those subsequent alter- 
ations which are always imperative. After three or four months the 
dealer's "make up" usually subsides. Then each article will require to 
be overlooked, and may be amended to the animal's form, which probably 
will be preserved after it has been taken into regular work. 

The choice of leather is of primary importance to the manufacturer of, 
and to the dealer in, equine furniture. After the goods are made up, no 
man, excepting he be a regular workman, can possibly form an opinion 
concerning the material of which it is composed. Certain tradesmen, 
not of questionable respectability, are in the habit of ticketing cheap arti- 
cles to entrap chance customers. The dealers, however, do not always 
know the precise nature of the trash which they become the means of 
circulating. They, nevertheless, must guess its character, for it is bought 



496 SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 

of the scamps who, shut out from all honest employment, exist by prac- 
ticing upon the ignorant, or by pandering to the selfishness of the reckless 
portion of society. 

The fellows purchase faulty leather. This, when made up, necessarily 
has the under surface concealed ; it then requires a sharp and an edu- 
cated eye to detect the nature of the fixed and highly polished material. 
The men, however, are fully aware that, with most gentlemen, stoutness 
is the test of quality. The prejudices of the general public are therefore 
propitiated, only the well-known shops being solicited by the peculiar 
order of workmen now under consideration. It is a common trick with 
the fraternity, before using, to line the flim*sy stuff which they employ. 
This artifice is practiced as a bait to catch the notorious weakness of 
those persons in whose parsimony they find their most profitable cus- 
tomers. 

Stoutness, however, may frequently deceive, even where excellence is 
really present. A good piece of leather is not always characterized by 
its bulk. The article which possesses the greatest strength may be thin, 
but it will feel supple and mellow to the hand. A skin of such a nature 
may confidently be trusted to wear. Persons, however, who are not 
educated to understand these qualities, would do well to avoid the showy 
harness which, in leading thoroughfares, is stuck prominently forward, 
and is very low in price. This generally fails when stress is put upon it. 
A fair proportion of all accidents reported spring from that cause, a com- 
mon form of which is snapping of the reins when these are subjected to 
more than ordinary tension. Such things are either cut from unsound 
leather, or made of imperfectly manufactured material, or the furniture 
of the harness is designedly deficient in some most essential quality. 

By the furniture of harness is strictly implied that portion which is of 
metal, and which is always added to the leather before the fabric is com- 
pleted. The best metallic ornaments are a London product, and are 
always forged or cast, but never stamped. The best quality of iron 
alone should be used for such a purpose. Recently a very superior 
article has been adopted by the trade. This is made of the metallic 
combination known as German silver. That substance was, when first 
brought under public notice, far too brittle to be employed by the har- 
ness-maker; but late improvements have endowed it with a strength 
and a tenacity equal to that exhibited by the very best Swedish iron. 

After the furniture has been shaped, it has to be plated. It is as a 
plated article that German silver is most valuable. The butler's pantry 
is characterized by greater delicacy than commonly distinguishes the 
stable, though, in both places, goods the same in kind may have to be 
operated upon. When the thin coating of silver is removed, of course 



SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 49T 

the substance upon which it is overlaid must be exposed. The duration 
of a modem ornament cannot be accurately stated ; but when the chief 
body was of iron, the contrast presented by the coarser metal and the 
silvered surface rendered repeated renewals unavoidable : whereas the 
integrity of the superficial layer is not so important when the bulk, botb 
in color and in aspect, is a fair imitation of the more precious invest- 
ment. For this reason, Messrs. Gibson always recommend the use ot 
plated German silver, which, if a trifle dearer to the purchaser, proves 
in the end the most economical, besides being a superior article from the 
commencement. 

Buckles are of much use, a^these allow the harness to be adjusted ; 
but no buckles can adjust that which is not properly made. The tight- 
ening or loosening of a strap may improve the set ; but a suit of well- 
constructed harness should be so accurately proportioned as to fall into 
its proper place without the aid of manual strength or the repeated 
alteration of the various fastenings. When harness does not fit, the 
collar either pains the shoulders or the saddle galls the back. An animal 
cannot progress steadily when its attention is engrossed by bodily suf- 
fering. The sight is no longer employed to guide the steps. The foot 
is incautiously placed upon a stone ; the steed stumbles over the first in- 
equality ; or, the mind being excited by pain, any object may alarm or 
startle the quadruped. The animal is blamed, and has been destroyed 
because of such accidents ; whereas the real cause of the mischief was 
a badly -made set of cheap harness, which was probably worn for the 
first occasion, and which the owner may have journeyed forth specially 
to display. 

Such mishaps should caution the public always to have the trappings 
of a horse made for the quadruped ; or, at all events, altered by a proper 
tradesman, before allowing them to be employed. The difference of cost 
between the ready-made -article and the goods which are manufactured 
to order is not more than a third of the outlay ; while the products of 
any respectable house will, upon an average, last twice as long as, and 
need infinitely less repairing than, the rubbish which is sold "cheap." 
Therefore, by true economy, by durability, and by safety, the public 
should be urged to a particular selection. "^ 

The gentleman, however, who contemplates "starting his horse," must 
not conceive the expenditure has terminated with the purchase of the 
animal. There are stables to rent and a groom to hire. Then there is 
the building to provide and to furnish ; a saddle and a bridle to procure ; 
with a set of harness and a vehicle to obtain. Rent and servant neces- 
sitate no immediate outlay. Hay, oats, and straw may possibly be ac- 
quired upon short credit; but stable furniture, saddlery, harness, and 

32 



498 



SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 



vehicle should be paid for on delivery ; otherwise more than a fair per- 
centage for time and for money may be added to the account. 

The articles requisite to furnish a stable are rather numerous ; cer- 
tainly they are somewhat expensive. Because of that circumstance, 
everything should be purchased of the stoutest kind and of the best 
quality. On no account should the servant receive extra wages to 
supply such necessaries. The man, when making such an agreement, 
of course contemplates a profit, and, as he concludes the bargain, calcu- 
lates how few accessories he can contrive "to get along with." The 
smaller the number the greater must be the pecuniary gain. The horse 
is, therefore, inconvenienced, if not tortured, by certain processes being 
accomplished with inefficient instruments, the grooming being performed 
rather to please the master's eye than to conduce to the comfort of his 
animal. 

The consequences of such an arrangement are, the gentleman is 
cheated, the horse is maltreated ; while the only gainer by the transac- 
tion, should he be suddenly discharged, of course carries away the many 
et ceteras he has been paid to provide. The stable is in a great measure 
stripped of its furniture. The new-comer may not enter upon his situation 
immediately. A helper, who must in the interim be engaged, will not 
feel disposed to adopt any artifice for the convenience of his employer. 




Moreover, the new servant may agree to certain conditions, without 
comprehending the outlay these involved. Grooms, when they enter 
upon a fresh situation, seldom possess cash in any abundanco ; therefore, 



SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 



499 



several expedients are imperative, eacli of whicli implies the imperfect 
performance of some necessary duty. 

Supposing one horse only to be kept, stable furniture embraces — 
clothing. Of this, the first cost of the blanket kind certainly is the 
lowest; but the sort denominated "kersey" last much the longer period, 
and therefore must, in the end, prove by far the least expensive. The ani- 
mal's clothes consist of several pieces, each being known by a distinct 
name : as, quarter-sheet ; breast-piece ; hunting-piece ; pad-cloth ; hood ; 
body-roller, and knee-caps. 

To these are added a moderate sized and coarse blanket or horse rug 
few the night, as well as a night roller to fasten it upon the body. 




NIQHT CLOTHINa. 



Among the stable furniture, which is more directly employed about 
the horse, ranks the head collar, the manger log, and the manger rein 
or the rope rein. Of which last, the leathern fastening is not much the 
dearer; while in appearance, in utility, and in wear, it will be found 
altogether the superior. 

Of articles required by the groom for use, are the scraper; the hoof 
picker; the curry-comb; the dandy, or dandruff brushes and water 
brushes ; combs ; straight and crooked scissors for trimming the mane 
and tail; sponges; bandages for the legs ; cloths; leathers; a rack chain; 
the pillar reins; the exercising bridle; hard and soft brushes for clean- 



^00 SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 

ing harness ; a burnisher ; a brush to clean the bit ; an oil pan and a 
brush; a dung basket; pails and forks. All these articles, that they 
may survive the usual treatment of such things, should be supplied by 
some reputable tradesman. 




BOUE OF THE ABTICLES REQUISITE FOR THE GROOM'S USB. 

The above goods, being designed to endure hard wear, should each 
be of the best possible quality. More order than is commonly observed 
ought to be maintained in the arrangement of the stable. A place 
should be allotted for every article when not in use. That this may be 
accomplished, stables should be built with better accommodations for 
storing than it is customary to provide in such erections. Bottles, jars, 
and implements are now thrust into any ready corner ; the interiors of 
these places consequently present a littered appearance; but such an 
aspect is unavoidable, when there exists no receptacle where such arti- 
cles might be placed until again required. There is now no help for the 
nuisance : forks, brooms, pails, and boxes must incumber the gangway, 
since the architect never provides a situation where such properties 
might be more safely lodged. 

Another essential should be attended to by every gentleman who 
values the condition of his horse, the comfort of his stable, or the pres- 
ervation of those accessories with which the last-named place must be 
stocked — this is, the temper of the servant. Some people favor a 
strange prejudice, which asserts irritability and industry are frequently 
associated. Anger, however, does not open the heart to sympathy, 
and its habitual display assuredly unfits its victim for the exercise of 
authority. 

Evil passion will render a servant disobliging, and cause him to be- 
come an expensive retainer. The manner in which the failing will act 



SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 501 

upon the groom may not be very apparent to the reader, therefore his 
indulgence is requested while the author proceeds briefly to explain the 
matter. 

Nothing can possibly be more extravagant than passion. It is heed- 
less of consequences, and destruction is its delight. The author formerly 
knew a gentleman who used to indulge in the most violent fits of un- 
bridled temper. He made his home miserable, and a moderate income 
was sadly crippled by expenses resulting from gusts of constitutional 
irritability. The last consequence, it is melancholy to relate, alone in- 
duced thoughts of amendment. When this individual, in later life, became 
conscious that what he termed his cloudy mood threatened to darken 
his intellect, he would retire to some solitary apartment : there, he would 
station himself before a looking-glass, and begin simpering and blandly 
talking to his own image. He would then tear or break something, 
generally a wooden or a paper match, and, having thus gratified that 
which he named his destructive impulse, after a few more antics would 
return, all smiles, to the bosom of his family, exclaiming, "Thank 
Heaven ! It's all over now !" 

But the great majority of grooms, imbued with the pride of ignorance, 
cannot afford to acknowledge a failing. Conceit makes them rather lend 
strength to an affliction by striving to conceal its existence. The master 
may never discover, if he cares not to search for, the truth. But the 
servant is necessarily empowered with absolute control in the stable. 
The implements speedily are damaged ; certain duties are either neg- 
lected or .imperfectly performed ; the horse loses its fat ; the coat never 
looks well; the eye becomes restless from the natural timidity of the 
animal being perpetually awakened. Nothing promotes thrift in a quad- 
ruped like the placidity of its attendant; whereas the constant alarm 
excited by the habitual anger of its superior is inimical to that glossy 
outside and blooming aspect in which the larger number of horse owners 
so much delight. 

The groom, in most situations, is greatly trusted with valuable prop- 
erty. In a large stable the cost of the trappings alone would form no 
inconsiderable possession to a needy man. There must be either sad- 
dlery or harness. There is no one to overlook the treatment of either. 
Such articles are expensive, and each is composed of numerous compli- 
cations. Harness for one horse consists of a bridle, of a collar, of a pad, 
of a martingale, of reins, of traces, of a breeching or of a loin strap, of a 
crupper, etc.; all of which should be solidly and well constructed. The 
whole should be formed of the very best leather, for any defect in this 
%miture may be fruitful with the greatest danger. Hence the advantage 
of dealing with a maker whose warranty represents more than a wordy 



003 SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 

iDducement to purchase ; and hence the necessity for care in the servant 
to whom such perishable property is intrusted. 




Oia HABNESS WITH KICRINQ-STRAP. 



For the gig horse, a set of harness, if embellished with plated orna- 
ments, is generally charged about thirteen pounds. For a pair of car- 
riage animals, the harness possessing similar adornments will commonly 
cost nearly thirty-three pounds. If brass is preferred in the place of 
plated goods, a slight reduction is the result. Yet even the foregoing 
figures do not include crests and other fanciful items, which are invariably 
paid for as extras, since no estimate could possibly embrace articles con- 
cerning the size, the number, and the elaboration of which the tastes of 
scarcely two individuals perfectly agree. 

The harness for a brougham is generally more expensive than that 
sold for the gig. Extra strength is required, and where work and leather 
are concerned, of course strength represents money. The trappings also 
should be more showy and more embellished when intended for a serv- 
ant's use. Most gentlemen prefer the animal they control should be so 
caparisoned as to attract no attention. This feeling causes the differ- 
ence in price. Ornamentation, where the horses are to be adorned, of 
course necessitates expenditure, though the degree in which the last 
quality shall be exhibited necessarily depends on the taste of the pro- 
prietor. 

Carriage harness, however, is viewed as the perfection of its particular 
craft. It is astonishing how nice is the adjustment required, and how 
perceptible any fault or deficiency becomes to the least observant spec- 



SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 503 

tator. The carriage may be new, the liveries of the smartest kind, but 
unless the harness be excellent, the general effect will be deteriorated 
The pace of the horses is rendered uneven, the coachman becomes nerv- 
ous, and the vehicle is not drawn smoothly onward when any sensible 
defect exists. Gentlemen cannot imagine how much danger is hazarded 
by the endeavors often made to procure an expensive article at less than 
a fairly remunerative price. 




FULL BDII OF BROUGHAM OB PHAETON HARNESS. 



Harness is thus expensive because its uses demand excellence in every 
part. It is subject to daily trials ; it must be manufactured to sustain 
perpetual tests as well as to endure constant supervision. A good set 
of harness should wear eight or ten years, although during the length- 
ened service repeated repairs must be expected. The mendings, or per- 
haps the partial renewals, will of course grow heavier as the age of the 
material increases. If done by piece-work, the repairs will average from 
one pound to four pounds yearly ; but if a contract be entered into with 
the maker, the terms usually are from thirty shillings to two pounds per 
annum ; the agreement dating from the commencement of the wear. 

The endurance of such things, however, is greatly governed by the 
uses to which they are subjected, and by the manner in which they are 
treated. When harness is seldom at home, of course it wears faster than 
when it is rarely or is moderately employed. The industry and habits 
of the person who looks after the articles have also to be considered. 
Some lazy men will ruthlessly wash the leather in a pail of water and 
afterward hang it upon the most convenient paling to dry in the sun 
shine. Such a proceeding will prove quickly ruinous : harshness is in 



5J4 



SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 



duced ; all suppleness is destroyed ; a disposition to crack is engendered ; 
while the plated ornaments speedily become tarnished. 

The proper method of cleaning is, to employ as little water as possible. 
A moist sponge, well soaped, may, when very much soil exists, be 
quickly passed over the surface, but each part should, without loss of 
time, be immediately dried after the dirt is removed. All the mud 
having been thus obliterated, the several pieces should be most carefully 
gone over again with a dry cloth, so as to absorb any possible moisture 
which, during the first cleansing, may have escaped notice. In fine or 
during dusty weather, no fluid is necessary, nor should the employment 
of any be suffered. A pail of water will, doubtlessly, save labor ; but 
the servant's leisure, which is thereby secured, is a severe burden upon 
the master's income. A good brush, not too hard, but one having 
springy hair, will soon remove all dry impurities ; and with that the 
harness, when not made moist by the road or rendered wet by exuda- 
tion from the animal's body, should always be cleansed. 



.^ .^^.A ^ ^ 



\Ajh 




A FULL SlIlT OF CAEKIAOE HARNESS. 



This being done, apply Harris's jet-black oil, but not thickly ; enough 
has been laid on so that the application lies upon every portion of the 
surface. No long time need be allowed for the oil to dry in ; but the 
first piece is generally ready to receive the next application by the time 



SADDLERY AND HARNESS. ^05 

the last part has been properly finished. Then apply a little of the 
compo., which being polished to a lustrous black, the entire process is 
perfected by a final wash of Harris's harness fluid. 

The appearance will be longer preserved when harness is cleaned after 
the foregoing directions, while its lasting properties are not injured by 
the process. Instead of being deteriorated every time it is cleansed, the 
leather is nourished, its strength and its aspect being renovated. The 
plated ornaments, of course, are not alluded to in the above instructions ; 
to polish these, some prepared chalk, fine brushes, finer than are generally 
employed, and a wash leather are imperative. 

An inefficient groom is, perhaps, more readily detected by his manner 
of cleaning harness than by any other stable operation. Practice alone 
confers aptitude in handling the various pieces. Use enables the dif- 
ferent articles to be rendered smart without staining the flesh or soiling 
the dress of the operator. When the servant is new to the occupation, 
particular portions are invariably scamped ; others get more than the 
requisite attention. Certain of the ornaments are left with the crevices 
full of powder, while some parts are wholly neglected ; but, above all, 
the linings to the various pieces are always smeared and impressed with 
dirty finger-marks. A good groom apparently will not trouble himself 
to avoid such errors, but, when he has finished, each portion is equally 
clean, while the ihsides are untainted and free from the smallest soil. 

The linings should be cleansed in the same manner as the other parts, 
only the blacking and the polishing are unnecessary. In most situations, 
leather is employed to cover the under surface ; where this substance is 
present, no beating is then required. Where cloth is used, as in the 
lining of a saddle pannel, this should be daily beaten with a small cane, 
and subsequently brushed till all hairs and dust are removed. The bad 
servant invariably strives to hide his laziness under a pretense of exces- 
sive zeal for his master's interest. When ordered to attend to the lining 
of his harness, he will endeavor to escape from the command by pleading 
the wear which attends the constant friction occasioned by continual 
beating and by perpetual brushing. 

A collar placed on the horse should be firm, falling easily into its 
proper situation. It is stuffed with straw or flock, and is Kned with 
leather. That the lining may not be stretched and that the stuffing may 
not be hardened in parts but may feel equally firm upon every portion of 
its inner surface, the article should never be used when moist, even in the 
remotest degree. When removed in a wet state, it should be dried 
either in the sun or before the kitchen fire, prior to again being taken 
mto service. When doing this, of course the nature of the material 
should be considered ; it should only be exposed to such a heat as will 



506 



SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 



cause the moisture to evaporate, and if that end can be attained by a 
brisk current of air in a shady place, such a situation is to be very much 
preferred to any natural or to any artificial warmth. 

The collar should pass into its situation without requiring the force 
which careless grooms seem to delight in exerting, or ignorant servants, 
possibly, may regard as necessary to the proper fulfillment of their 
duties. Any violence, when daily repeated, must eventually damage 
the horse's appearance by removing hair from the prominences of the 
head, and by causing the naturally placid countenance of the animal to 
assume a worn or a ragged expression. The collar should be turned 
when put over the face, the widest part of the opening being passed 
over the ears. When the head is through, and before the article pro- 
ceeds lower than the topmost portion of the neck, it should be righted, 
or the pointed part should occupy the most elevated situation; after 
which it is slid down upon the shoulder. 

The collar, when fitted to the neck, should sit firmly and closely. The 
bearing should be equal and even, because the entire draught is from 
the collar ; in proportion as the bearing is accurately distributed, so the 
weight will be easily propelled. Some people have endeavored to 
render the collar more steady by attaching the traces to hames with 
double eyes. The hames are the metal rods which repose upon the 





HAMES WITH DOUBLE ETES. 



A BCROIX-ETED HAME. 



collar ; the eyes are circular spaces which permit the traces to be united 
to the hames. Though double fastenings may occasion the force to seem 
better distributed along these rods, the effect must operate rather upon 
the spectator's mind than upon the substance it is meant to render 
stationary. If a line is drawn from the point where the trace should 
end, and equidistant from those places to which the two bands are 



SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 



601 



attached, the real seat of bearing will prove not to have been changed 
bj the angularity of the fastenings, but will either remain confined to its 
original situation, or it may act only on one fastening to the exclusion of 
the other. That which is known as a scroll eye, however, is more 
elegant than the plain attachment, and on account of its smartness 
deserves to be preferred. 

A breast-collar, when the circumstances permit a free exercise of 
selection, should never be adopted. It may, in the eye of inexperience, 
look prettier; but it goes directly across a part of motion; it drags 
against the muscles, which, being loose in structure, are not made to 
endure continual pressure. Moreover, the cartilage of the chest moves 
with each respiration ; any force operating from without, therefore, can- 
not but oppose this normal action. 
Besides, the chief component of the 
chest, the terminations of the ribs, 
which are inserted into the sternum, 
are also cartilaginous, Now, carti- 
lage is highly plastic, and readily as- 
sumes strange shapes, as is seen by 
the larynx when distorted by the 
bearing-rein. (See " Illustrated Horse 
Doctor," pp. 108, 109.) Whereas, 
when the collar bears agamst the shoulder, it is supported by solid bone, 
as firm and as compact as can be found in most structures throughout the 
body. 

However, when accident or disease makes it impossible to continue 
the employment of a collar, the breast-strap, although in itself an evil, 
becomes the only substitute. 




A BREAST-COLLAB OR STRAP 





A MOVABLE ANT A FIXED BINO FOB THE EEIN8 TO PASS THEOUQH. 



There is connected with the hame a simple arrangement, about which 
neither gentlemen nor makers are always sufficiently particular. The 



608 



SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 



reins are supported in their proper position bypassing through a ring or 
ferret, which is generally fixed upon the hames. Should the horse, thus 
caparisoned, accidentally fall, the loop, being immovable, is either bent 
out of all shape, or, more probably, it is broken short off by the weight 
of the prostrate animal. It may be replied, that horse collars are not, 
when manufactured, made to be violently driven against stones. The 
writer does not contradict the assertion ; but when a hinge will not in- 
terfere with the aspect, and, by yielding to pressure, will guard against 
a possible mischance, the little extra labor which the addition would 
require assuredly could not be better expended. 




The principal portions of the harness having been considered, some 
thought must ri^K^ be bestowed upon the chief essentials of saddlery. 
A good saddle, intended to please the majority of horsemen, should be 
seventeen and a half or eighteen inches long, the length being regulated 
by the shape of the animal. It is, of course, equally easy to manufac- 
ture a saddle of any given proportions ; but one of a sound working and 
a thoroughly useful sort should not be much shorter, and should weigh 
from ten to twelve pounds. Such things have been produced of seven 
pounds weight. Were it desirable, the saddle could be made much 
lighter even than the last figure represents ; the article at present under 
consideration is supposed to be of a lasting description, and not of the 
fanciful kind. When gentlemen lay down rules which the manufacturer 
is to observe, they should remember that the tradesman, who merely 
carries out his employer's ideas, and is not permitted to obey his own 
convictions, is no longer responsible for results. 

A broad seat is generally preferred. This should not be so wide as 



SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 509 

to disable the grip of the rider ; but it ought to be of no greater dimen- 
sions than will allow a firm hold to be taken bj the fleshy part of the 
thigh. Every saddle has two girths, but all girths have not three straps 
These should always be present; because if one strap should break, 
another is ready to supply its place. It vexes most keen sportsmen, 
near the termination of a hard run, to lose a good place because, strained 
by the accelerated action of the horse's lungs, a girth strap shall, when 
excitement is at its height, give way. 

To avoid so irritating an accident, the hunting or the Melton girth is 
now commonly employed. This consists of a broad webbing, which is 
tightened by two straps, one at either margin. Over the main girth 
there runs a narrower length of the same material, which is kept m its 
situation by passing through two loops upon the principal binder. The 
narrower webbing is fastened by means of the third or central strap. 
Thus, should one of the fastenings of the chief girth yield, or even should 
both be forced from their holds, the saddle will not necessarily be dis- 
placed, as there is always a supernumerary guard in attendance ready 
to officiate as the representative of its incapacitated principals. 




CRUPPEE, MELTON GIRTH, AND MAKTINGALE. 

Cruppers are generally discarded. These appendages have occasioned 
terrible sores, and are of no actual utility to the retention of the saddle ; 
for the withers should prevent that convenience from moving too for- 
ward. A martingale is occasionally used ; but if the animal be rightly 
formed for its purposes, and has been carefully broken in, the head should 
be carried properly without necessitating compulsion. The mouth is 
soon injured and loses its sensitiveness when a tight rein is constantly 



.'ilO SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 

in requisition to bring the muzzle into its proper situation. When the 
lips are subjected to perpetual pressure it can hardly be anticipated that 
the steed can obey the slightest movement of the rider's hand. Most 
people are vexed when obliged to tug and haul every time it is desired 
the animal should deviate from the direct course. 

Once the spring stirrup was hailed as a marvelous invention and an 
indispensable part of every good saddle. This was designed to release 
the foot of a rider who had lost his seat. Such things were very pretty 
toys. They acted beautifully in the chamber when first taken out of 
paper, but, when exposed to use, these elegant precautions soon got out 
of order. Dirt would work into the joint and would interfere with the 
mechanism, which thus became useless at the very time its services were 
likely to be required. After a hard gallop the joint could not be other- 
wise than clogged, especially when the run was across country. There- 
fore the spring stirrup has been displaced in public estimation by the 
spring bar. This last is the newer and the less costly provision, the 
spring being attached to the bar which supports the stirrup leather. 




SPRING BAR FOR THE STIRRUP LEATHER AND SPRING STIRRUP. BOTH BEING EXHIBITED DURING REST 
AND WHEN IN ACTION. 

The situation where the machinery is lodged protects it from dirt, from 
wet, or from dust, being doubly sheltered from all such intrusion. It is 
covered by the skirt of the saddle, and is likewise shielded by the thigh 
of the rider. The article thus placed is removed from the operation of 
that objection which has thrown the spring stirrup into disuse. The 
purpose of both* inventions is equal, being exactly similar. When the 
rider was unseated, the stirrup was intended to yield before the drag of 
the imprisoned foot. When the horseman is thrown, the smallest trac- 
tion does occasion the spring bar to act, and the leather is released, the 
limb forcing the stirrup iron and the leather to quit their relative situa- 
tions. 

The stirrup iron was formerly made of various shapes, each of which 
was imagined to possess some special advantage. At present, however, 
the public appear to disregard peculiarities of form in such articles, and 
to pay no attention to those contortions concerning which our forefathers 
were so extremely precise. It is now considered quite sufficient if the 



SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 



511 



stirrup iron afford a firm rest to the foot of the rider, if it be not disposed 
to glide away from the pressure of the boot, and if it be as light as pos- 
sible, but nevertheless possesses the strength necessary for its purposes. 
All these intentions are embodied in a plain, three-baft-ed stirrup iron, 
which presents an ample surface of bearing, while, being slightly rough- 
ened upon its upper surface, it is readily retained by pressure ; but for 
the strength of the article the respectability of the salesman must afford 
the only possible guarantee. 

Also appended to the saddle is an adjunct frequently of no inconsid- 
erable utility in the field. It is comparatively of modern invention, and 
is known as the hunting breast-plate. One extremity is attached by 
means of a hold to each side of the saddle, near to the pommel. The 
straps proceeding thence are short, and soon unite, when the medium of 
junction proceeds to the chest. The two leathers, one from either side, 
are there joined to a single strap, which, after passing between the fore- 
legs, is finally attached to the girth. The intention of this addition is 
to retain the saddle in its proper situation, an object not always easy to 
accomplish even with this provision, as high withers and violent mus- 
cular exertion naturally incline to its backward movement. 




L HUNTING BEEAST-PLATE. 



The breast-plate, for the full development of its use, necessitates much 
care in the groom when caparisoning the quadruped. The two short 
upper straps, on which all stress must center, join directly under the 
windpipe. Because of this all parts necessitate the most accurate adjust- 
ment ; where a breast-plate is used, the servant should particularly notice 



512 SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 

tlie position of the girth when securing the fastening. If the leather 
should be loose or even slack, the backward motion of the saddle will 
of course dispose the two side pieces to assume the straight line, or it 
will force their jTinction upward as well as render its pressure more strin- 
gent. The consequence will be, the strap must press upon the trachea 
and blood-vessels ; the animal may be choked, and the hunting of one 
day spoiled, even should the rider and his horse ultimately escape all 
injury. 

The upper reins of the martingale are sometimes made to spring from 
the center fastening of the breast-plate. But the use of the martingale 
is to force the head downward. To do this requires a firm hand and 
a straight rein, which consequently pulls the restraining strap of the 
breast-plate upward, and thus destroys the purpose of the last invention. 
The two articles are, in their uses, perfectly distinct ; such things cannot 
be profitably blended. The martingale is designed to counteract an ■ 
upward traction. The fastening of the breast-plate should drag only in 
the downward line, whereas the head strains in the contrary direction. 
When a martingale cannot be dispensed with, one should be worn totally 
distinct and separate from the breast-plate. It is, however, always 
desirable to join the meet with as few floating gear as possible ; since, 
when the pace grows hot and the fences are high, such loops are little 
better than baits for accident. 

A good addition to the saddle, and one no rider should be without, 
was introduced into this country by Messrs. Gibson. It was originally 

used in India, where its utility was 
largely tested, and amply proved by the 
British cavalry. This improvement con- 
sists of a felt under-pannel ; which is 
made of such dimensions as to be per- 
fectly concealed when lying between the 
FELT UNDEE-PANNEL. pauucl aud thc skin. As an adjusting 

medium it answers admirably. Should 
the saddle not exactly fit, the motion chafes the felt, and does not gall 
the body. Besides, horses are not, more than their masters, of the same 
size at all times; the felt, being elastic, allows of slight variations in 
bulk without imperiling the safety of the proprietor. 

The felt under-pannel should always be used whenever a side-saddle 
is employed; it renders the adjustment more easy, and makes it more 
secure. Such an advantage cannot always be attained, even with the 
extra girth, with which all side-saddles should be provided. Every 
possible care ought to be exercised that the seat of a lady's saddle may 
be rendered firm; because, as the make throws the bearing upon the 




SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 513 

near side, and the fixedness of the position must incapacitate the lady 
for freedom of action, therefore any movement of the saddle is likely to 
be attended by serious consequences. 




A lady's stikrup with the knee ceutch and the victoria stirrup. 

For the foregoing reasons, the maker should bestow the greatest atten. 
tion upon the shape of the saddle-tree ; no artifice should be neglected 
that is calculated to render the side-saddle more fixed upon the horse's 
back. The seat should be longer as well as broader than is usual in 
those articles which are manufactured to sell quickly and to look pret- 
tily. It should be covered with soft, unpolished leather, and be quilted, 
so that its partial roughness and trivial inequalities may present a more 
secure and an easier seat for the fair equestrian. 

Every aid would, however, be useless, were it not for the crutches. 
The female rider must cast her bearing upon the near crutch; hence 
horses, when forced to work under an ill-made side-saddle, often suffer 
terribly, and exhibit as the consequence severe examples of fistulous 
withers. Experience has proved that the ofi' crutch is of small service, 
save as it may confirm the confidence of the lady; although, by render- 
ing the leg more stationary, it is in reality calculated to increase her 
danger. Its utility lies in calming the timidity of the horsewoman ; for 
the instant a horse gets into motion, the bearing is entirely toward the 
near side ; therefore most modern saddlers, although they dare not re- 
move the useless crutch, have its height materially diminished. 

The third or knee crutch is a comparatively recent improvement. It 

33 



514 SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 

ofifers a point for pressure to the left knee, or of bearing for the stirrup 
leg. It is of every service, enabling the lady to retain a firm seat. 
During the perils of leaping it prevents the lighter weight of the female 
body being, by the violence of the motion, so shaken as to lose all hold 
upon the upper crutches. Thus, in some degree, it compensates for the 
advantage that gentlemen enjoy in the grip which their position enables 
them to take of the saddle. 





THE LADIES' PATENT STIRRUP. EXHIBITED AT BEST AND IN ACTION. 

The slipper was the favorite stirrup in use with the side-saddle a few 
years ago. Its adoption then was all but universal, and so at the pres- 
ent time is its rejection. The Yictoria stirrup, or an iron of the shape 
which is adopted by Her Majesty, now engrosses public patronage ; it 
being generally employed, with the addition of the previously noticed 
spriQg bar. 

The patent stirrup for ladies is not liable to those objections which 
were urged against the spring stirrup, when employed for the saddles of 
gentlemen. The habit protects the machinery, which is not therefore 
exposed to the intrusion of mud. Its action is almost certain; but, 
should it not answer the occasion, the next invention, when employed 
with the foregoing provision, would probably set the malice of "luck" 
at defiance. 

The following should also be appended to every lady's saddle. Male 
equestrians may esteem the spring bar to afford the gentle sex sufficient 
protection. However, where there is a possibility of question, no ex- 
pense ought to prevent the more fearful rider from being guarded by the 
latest additions, which may promise even the remotest chance of security. 
The common spring bar rarely fails to act ; but, on particular occasions, 
it has retained the stirrup leather. The patented improvement shown 
on the next page appears to provide against such an accident, and when 



SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 



515 



employed with the stirrup represented in the previous engraving, it as- 
suredly affords an almost certain immunity jfrom those accidents which 
each is assumed to render an impossibility. 





PATENT BAFEir SPKINQ PEE8SUEE STIRRUP BAR. DEPICTED AT REST AND IN ACTION. 

The dotted lines indicate the relative positions of the stirrap leather. 



No lady's saddle should be used without being accompanied by the 
hunting breast-plate ; for nothing which might possibly increase security 
should in that case be neglected. For the last reason, also, a felt under- 
pannel should never be absent ; because firmness of seat lends assurance 
to the rider, and because the provision prevents that unsteadiness 
which is known to provoke one of the worst evils to which the horse is 
exposed. 

Saddles are covered by what the public denominate pigs' skins, but 
which the trade, aiming at a distinction without being able to indicate a 
difference, persist in calling hogs' skins. 

These are always procured from the currier in large lots when pur- 
chased at first hand ; but they are a hazardous article to buy. Out of 
two hundred, of which a parcel shall consist, there may not be more than 
two dozen really sound skins ; therefore no tradesman has hitherto been 
able to establish a reputation for dealing in so uncertain a commodity. 
The wholesale merchant, consequently, knows but few customers Estab- 
lished houses alone can afford the requisite outlay to obtain goods of so 
notoriously uncertain a character. From the larger parcels the best 
specimens are carefully selected by the first buyer; the remainder are 
cast upon the retail market, and are distributed among the numerous 
class of trades-people, whose limited capital does not allow them to 
speculate with the articles which they employ. 

A good saddle is recognized by the accuracy of the fit. When let fall 
upon the back, it at once finds the proper situation. There it remains 
stationary and firm before a girth is fastened. When the maker, having 
brought home a new article, finds occasion to interfere w' ith the j^room, 



516 SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 

shifts about the saddle, and concludes his performance by tugging at tne 
girths before he requests the employer to feel how firmly the new pro- 
duction is located, it is always an evil omen. The saddler, supposing 
the groom to be competent to his position, should never be suffered to 
volunteer assistance; the horse owner had better ride bare-backed than 
be seated on a badly-constructed saddle, for the last is hardly less un* 
pleasant to a good horseman, while the first is infinitely more safe for 
the rider and the quadruped. 

A good fit presupposes excellent workmen, and of course. the larger 
houses attract the greater number of such artificers, because in such 
shops men expect to be employed on that particular branch of work in 
which each excels. Such masters, likewise, can afford to pay the highest 
rate of wages, and can alone tempt with constant employment. Add to 
these reasons that money in the saddlery and harness trades commands 
rather more than its just influence, being able to select the pick of every 
market, and it must be apparent how many advantages the established 
firm enjoys over the ordinary beginner, who has to struggle against the 
lack of pecuniary ability, against a want of regular customers, and against 
those difficulties which are peculiar to his calling. 

Hogs' skins are easily cleansed by washing quickly with a little soap 
and water ; but washing and drenching are not here regarded as repre- 
senting the same process. Water is not beneficial to leather of any sort, 
therefore as little fluid as will accomplish the object should be used; the 
more speedy the operation the better. It should be concluded by a clean 
cloth immediately wiping the surface quite dry. This finished, a sponge 
damped with good milk should be passed over the exterior; the saddle 
then should be hung up (not before the fire or in the sunshine) to expel 
the moisture. The more seldom, however, this process is adopted the 
better ; consequently, it is only to be recommended upon urgent necessity. 

Bridles, and every strip of harness which bears the slightest resem- 
blance to a rein, should be cut only from the best, the strongest, and the 
choicest of English leather. Struggling tradesmen do not all possess 
the abihty, however powerful may be the desire, to exercise selection in 
this article. Some have sent forth reins made of so faulty a material as 
stood exposed the moment it encountered the glance of a practical or an 
educated eye. The head-piece, requiring shorter straps, may possibly 
be cut from a partially imperfect hide ; but for the reins, length and tough- 
ness are essential. The merest crack will, with constant wear, become 
a fissure ; and no horseman can foretell the moment when personal safety 
shall depend upon the power which he shall be able to exert through 
the reins. 

A fair proportion of the injuries which happen to riders or to drivers 



SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 511 

are aggravated by faulty reins. A contest arises between a restive horse 
and an intemperate master. The contest, which from the earliest period 
alarmed timidity in the animal, has just excited the man, when the reins 
fly asunder. The scared quadruped finds itself suddenly released. The 
creature understands nothing of the cause ; but the first impulse natural 
to fear is to fly from the presence of the power against which it has been 
struggling. Whenever the horse displeases its master, pain inflicted by 
whip, bit, or spur generally ensues as a natural consequence. It is from 
such torture that the poor life endeavors to escape. Motion increases its 
terror as the unshackled being dashes blindly onward. An accident is 
the probable result. The coroner and the jury assemble ; a verdict, which 
all approve, is formally delivered ; but no one thinks of inspecting the 
reins to discover the real cause of injury. 

Reins should always be attentively examined. If good, they look 
pleasant to the eye, and are yielding to the touch. Any roughness, 
harshness, or hardness denotes the presence of defective leather. It 
may not break to-morrow or the next day, but before long the rein will 
separate. The slightest indication of a crack will gradually become an 
extensive division. Messrs. Gibson have often been honored with com- 
mands to export reins, the foreign leather being harsh and inelastic, 
therefore feeling unpleasant to English hands ; but more frequently the 
natives of this country are afraid to employ reins exhibiting innumerable 
cracks, everywhere displaying the roughness which should not exist, 
and being totally deficient in the suppleness which ought to be abund- 
antly present. 

When reins are intended for the use of ladies, their character should 
be unexceptionable. Many girls, before they have conquered the seat, 
depend, in no slight degree, upon the reins 
for retaining their positions in the saddle. 
They of course understand nothing about 
saddlery. They accept anything which is 
offered; but the sudden snapping of the reins 
always terrifies the steed, while it greatly 
alarms the gentle being on its back, whose 
fears are increased by finding herself instan- 
taneously deprived of a support on which 
her inexperience had depended. Ladies' 
reins, being made lighter, should be cut from 
better leather than those intended for gen- m^^^TB^LB. 

tlemen ; if there be a possible choice, it should 
be accorded to the weaker party. Some horsewomen like the reins and 
the head-piece to be formed of rounded straps. Thus made, they cer- 




518 SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 

tainly liave a lighter and a more graceful appearance ; but Messrs. Gib- 
son do not recommend such a form of bridle to those ladies who delight 
in mounting and in subduing high-spirited animals. 

Martingales are generally complained of as troublesome appendages 
when added to the trappings of either the saddle or of the gig horse. 
These articles, however, can be so manufactured as to lend a dignity to 
the quadrupeds which run before carriages ; though, where a martingale 
is used, the bearing-rein becomes unnecessary, since both restraints aim 
at the same object. Perhaps of the two, the martingale is the better, 
because, while obliging the head to be held in the proper position, it 
enables the coachman, by slackening the reins, to rest the muscles of the 
neck when the vehicle pauses. The martingale certainly requires the 
better driver, and imposes the greater exertion upon him who drives, 
the latter circumstance being likely to interfere with the digestive 
serenity of most servants. 

There is, however, one species of martingale, without which few ladies' 
saddles appear to be fully equipped. Some 
animals necessitate no restraint to improve 
the carriage of the head, but these, neverthe- 
less, acquire a habit of throwing the muzzle 
suddenly up and of jerking the foam from 
the lips into the face of the rider. This pro- 
pensity communicates no pleasure to the 
person who occupies the seat. It generally 
causes the equestrian to lower the head 
whenever the quadruped evinces a disposi- 
A FRENCH MARTINGALE. tiou to cxalt Its couuteuance ; such being the 

precise moment when the human vision is of 
double value ; for th€ eye of the horse, being direct heavenward, can then 
take no cognizance of earthly objects; hence the great need for the 
guidance of the rider. 

To correct this, the French martingale, which consists of a single 
strap, is attached to the nose band. The band passes over the nasal 
bones, and under the forward part of the lower jaw. To the lowest part 
of this band the French martingale is fixed. The operation is obvious. 
The horse, by raising the head, causes the martingale to act on the bridle : 
the nostrils are compressed; the breathing is interfered with; and, as 
the quadruped resents the slightest hinderance to its respiration, the 
fruitless effort to indulge an obnoxious habit is relinquished, so that the 
annoyance of the tightened nose band may be avoided. French martin- 
gales, which were once largely in use, are now never employed with a 




SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 



519 



gentleman's saddle, although they have not been discarded by equeS' 
trians of the gentler sex. 





BITS USUALLY ATTACHED TO LADIES' BRIDLES. 



BUCKLED AND SEWN ON. 



The bits which accompany the ladies' bridle are more fanciful in 
shape, and more ornamental in appearance, though hardly so heavy as 
the articles manufactured for the use of gentle- 
men, because the generality of ladies seldom 
resort to this instrument of positive torture : 
indeed, these severities seem to be losing their 
attractions over the harsher natures. Many 
men, however, employ them; most regard a 
bridle as incomplete without a bit; but very 
few are so fond of the restraint as to order it 
to be sewn to the head piece. 

A bit permanently attached certainly appears lighter, and necessitates 
the employment of less obvious force, though at the same time it must be 
more acute when in operation. Nevertheless, it is to be doubted whether 
one foot passenger out of ten thousand would notice the only peculiarity 
for which such an arrangement is to be commended. Moreover, every 
animal does not require the exertion of extraordinary power ; while the 
irremovable character of the bit is not without attendant disadvantages. 
The article can no longer be changed at pleasure. A rider may grow 
to dislike the constant employment of one form of coercion. The ani- 
mal's education may not need the perpetuation of such severity; the 
temper may improve, or the steed may accommodate itself to the per- 
sonal peculiarities of its proprietor; or the quadruped's mood may 
change, for horses, like their masters, are swayed by strange influences, 
and are sometimes impelled by eccentric impulses. 

When the metal has to be washed, cleaned, and polished, should the 
bit be sewn to the head piece, the leather cannot be removed during the 
processes. Water is not beneficial to a leathern material ; therefore the 
bit must either be imperfectly renovated, or the head piece must be 



620 SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 

soiled during the requisite labor demanded for the purification of its 
adjunct. These annoyances are avoided when the bit is made to take 
on and off by the means of a buckle. Each part can then be properly 
attended to without hazard to the rest. Should the bridle not appear 
clean, the owner recognizes a legitimate cause for complaint ; but when 
the bit is fixed, the groom has always ready an excuse for idleness, while 
the consequent wear will be found altogether more rapid. 

There are various kinds of bits, and each has its admirers ; but a well- , 
broken and a good-tempered animal requires nothing more powerful than 
a snaf&e. Restraints of needless severity, employed with extravagant 
exertion, are by no means required, though such are far too general with 
the great majority of professed horsemen. The animal is spoilt by such 
tuition. It is educated to understand nothing but coercion; whereas 
gentleness and firmness combined can accomplish much more than bru- 
tality can compel. 

There is a well-known tale, which, being illustrative of this subject, 
may here be aptly quoted. A farmer, intending to break a colt for sale, 
mounted the animal ; but hardly was he in the saddle before thd ears 
were laid upon the neck, and the frame rendered rigid by the presence 
of obstinacy. The intention of the attitude was recognized by all ; but 
offers of stick, whip, or spur were as stubbornly rejected. " No, no, no," 
replied the kind-hearted proprietor to the proposal of such favorite per- 
suaders. "Jane, lass! bring I the afternoon's mug and pipe." These 
were discussed. Another pipe was filled and exliausted, without the 
honest fellow descending to earth. Then the colt was invited to pro- 
ceed ; but the humor of the quadruped continued unaltered ; accordingly 
it remained stationary, with the master on its back. 

"Father! tea is quite ready," cried Jane, peering from the kitchen 
window. "Bring it here, lass, for I shan't get down !" was the response. 
The tea was brought and partaken of The day was drawing toward 
its close, and the air was becoming cold. " I should not mind having 
my great-coat, a pipe, and a glass," shouted the farmer. Everything 
was brought, and the man endeavored to make his position comfortable ; 
but apparently took no heed of the creature beneath him. "For," he 
observed, "if I could strike, the colt could fling and prance ; so it might 
not be certain which would master ; whereas, while I be quiet, I've the 
best on't." 

Supper was eaten where the tea had been swallowed: the master 
showed he was resolved, unless the colt moved, to pass the night in the 
saddle. The animal became uneasy, and shifted about; but without 
progressing until some time after the clock had struck eleven. Then 
the colt was suddenly disposed to progress. " Whoy I" shouted its mas- 



SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 



521 



ter, "you have stayed so long to please yourself, now remain a little 
longer to pleasure I !" 

At length the rider was disposed to move, but in an opposite direc- 
tion to that which the colt was inclined to travel. The animal was also 
willing to trot briskly, but the farmer would sanction nothing faster than 
a walk. Accordingly, the pair slowly moved five miles out, and trotted 
five miles home. Then the quadruped was placed before an empty 
manger, and left, tired and hungry, to its night's meditations on the evils 
of disobedience. The above narrative, of course, concludes by stating 
that the animal proved docile "forever afterward." 

The obvious intention of the above is to discourage the employment 
of force. The strongest man cannot physically contend against the 
weakest horse. Man's power reposes in better attributes than any 
which reside in thews and muscles. Reason, alone, should dictate and 
control his conduct. Thus guided, mortals have subdued the elements. 
For power, when mental, is without limit : by savage violence nothing 
is attained, but the man is often humbled through a conviction of 
defeat. 





A PLAIN SNAFrLE. 



A TWISTED SNAFFLE. 




A CHAIN SNAFFLE, 



Every species of bit is evidence of a human mistake, and the wrench 
which it can exert is only the measure of the error. Many valuable 
animals are annually ruined, under a prejudiced notion about subduing 
a stubborn spirit. The horse is born submissive. It by nature acknowl- 



522 



SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 



edges the superiority of man. When the animal refuses to obey, the 
disobedience only expresses the creature's ignorance of the desires of its 
master; or declares the presence of some more potent influence than 
human authority. In either case, patience is the best remedy. Let the 
rider be passive until the slow understanding of the quadruped compre- 
hends his pleasure ; or until a sufficient pause has destroyed the spell 
by which the servant was enthralled. Pat the neck ; speak encourag- 
ingly to the alarmed timidity. Then gently walk the fearful life a few 
steps. In shorter time, with less trouble and with far greater safety, 
will such measures restore composure, than violence possibly can compel 
submission ; upon recovery, the acknowledgment of the master's sway 
will be revived and strengthened by that sense of gratitude which, in 
animals, reae-on is powerless to pervert. 

The snaffle is the gentlest indicator which the bridle possesses. It is 
generally sold in two forms — either plain or twisted. The latter sup- 
posed improvement renders its action upon the lips more sharp, the 
sharpness being proportioned to the fineness of the twist. The chain 
snaffle is, however, still more terrible in its operation, and is certainly 
better calculated to punish than to guide. A plain snaffle is, therefore, 
much to be preferred, the fact being well illustrated by the circumstance 
, that the gentlemen who depend upon the milder species of check en- 
counter fewer accidents than those riders who place their reliance in 
such mechanical restraints as are warranted to break the jaw-bone of 
any restive animal. 





THE HACKNEY AND BIRDOO-N BIT. 



THE PELHAM BIT. 



The mildest of the many bits in general use is called the " Hackney." 
It is a curb bit and birdoon, having a double reined bridle. The last in- 
strument is, however, gradually being superseded by the " Pelham bit," 
which is capable of creating terrible agony. This restraint riders com- 
monly employ with double reins ; but it can be used with a single head 



SADDLERY AND HARNESS. 



523 



pie.ce. In general it is manufactured smooth or plain, but it also can be 
twisted to afij desired degree of severity. 

The " Hanoverian bit," like the majority of imported inventions, is a 
terrible exaggeration of the worst properties 
that once were thought sufficiently powerful. 
Its nature is best expressed by the phrase 
" hard and sharp," which it has almost solely 
appropriated. A horse cannot grasp this 
novelty in its teeth, and thus render futile 
an unscrupulous master's efforts to punish. 
" The Hanoverian " enables a rider to con- 
tinue the agony which may have driven a 
sensitive creature to the confines of madness. 
As the sides are movable at pleasure, it is esteemed to be an admirable 
check for a pulling quadruped. 




THE HANOVERIAN BIT. 





THE SEOUNDO BIT 



THE CHIFFNET BIT. 



Should none of the foregoing embody the desires of some desperate 
horseman, there remains another, which is an ugly thing to be put into 
a living mouth ; it is called the " Segundo bit," and is the most barbarous 
of all the cruelties in general use. It is manufactured of three sizes ; 
the longest of which enables any Christian gentleman to inflict the most 
lively torture upon the meekest of living creatures. 

The "Chiffney bit" was once highly esteemed, and, assuredly, was 
fully equal to its pretensions ; but it seems lately to have sunk low in 
public favor. The " Sliding Mouth bit " is the last invention of this 
kind. It is thought to operate b.eneficially upon animals which are em- 
ployed in harness. The mouth piece is reversible, having a rough and 
a smooth side, and it is much approved of, because it professes to afford 
the horse something for the mouth to play with. 

The actions of the dumb, however, are easily mistaken. Anything 
which pains the angles of the mouth, whether it should be a roughened 



524 



CONCLUSION. 



bit or a tight bearing-rein, will provoke the horse to toss the head into 
the air. This motion is regarded bj most persons as evidence of spirit, 

and as signifying a playful disposition ; but ii 
is in reality an effort to relieve for an in- 
stant the tension which drags against the lips. 
Another action which gratifies the majority 
of spectators is to behold a steed move the 
lips which are whitened with foam. Foam, 
however, only indicates the presence of thirst, 
and the reader will, upon reference to " Scald 
Mouth " in the previous volume, discover that 
rapid labial motion is not, in the horse, char- 
acteristic of amusement. 

Bits of all sorts are decided mistakes, and 
the blunder is the greater as the restraint be- 
comes the more severe. The occasional employment of such things is 
highly dangerous; their perpetual use destroys the sensibility of the 
mouth. That continued pain should deaden feeling is a wise institution, 
kindly ordained to prevent the sensibilities of this world becoming the 
playthings of barbarity. Nature protects her creatures from the inces- 
sant use of the goad by causing it to provoke numbness in the region on 
which torture would operate. The knowledge of this law should instruct 
mankind in the inutility of habitual severity; while the conviction that 
the same Tender Parent has, in madness, ordained a refuge for sudden 
agony, should teach all people not to lash the horse into that state which 
can alone render it truly dangerous. 




THE SLIDING MOUTH BIT. 



"With the last sentence the main subject of the present volume has 
concluded. The reader, as he reviews the topics wh^ch have been sub- 
mitted to his judgment, is probably surprised to perceive how little of 
mystery legitimately appertains to the horse, but how much its require- 
ments accord with the dictates of "common sense." In short, "common 
sense" may be said to indicate all that the proper comprehension of the 
stable or its inhabitants need at the hands of a proprietor. 

Yet, is it not surprising that society at large regards " horse knowl- 
edge" as a mysterious attainment, to be gained only by a long course of 
actual experience ? Such a prejudice is without the slightest foundation. 
Antiquated customs and exploded notions are common enough in every 
mews. Filth is, in such places, supposed to be endowed with strange 
medicinal attributes, and cruelty is patronized as though the perfection 



CONCLUSION. 



525 



of wisdom Kaid in tlie total absence of humanity. The horse, as at pres- 
ent treated, is the victim of ignorance, and is exposed to every abuse. 
Nature and her dictates are disregarded. The animal is tortured till it 
submits to abhorrent brutalities. Its instincts, as a created being, are 
not respected ; neither are its necessities, as a living creature, ever con- 
sidered. Its welfare is secondary to the convenience of the master, and 
its custody is transferred to the unscrupulous cupidity of the servant. 

"Common sense,^^ however, demands these things should be amended ; 
and the main purpose with which the foregoing pages were indited was 
a hope, through a plain statement of facts and an appeal to the reason 
of the public, of awakening those intrusted with authority over the 
equine species to the errors attendant upon the present system of 
Stable Management. 




INDEX. 



A. 

PAGE 

Abnormal condition of horn induced 

by the present mode of nailing 99 

Absence of the groom watched for... 255 

Accidents are more rare since muti- 
lation is less common 381 

might be avoided by masters be- 
ing more gentle 263 

occasioned by injudicious break- 
ing 460 

Accomplishments which fit to take 

charge of a dealer's yard 368 

According to the position of the el- 
bow so the hoofs must incline.. 412 

Action natural to a slanting shoulder 408 
necessitated by a straight shoul- 
der 405 

often witnessed before private 
cabs in London 407 

Actions of the dumb are likely to be 

misinterpreted 271 

Active animals are always disliked 

in the stable 215 

Activity constitutes the horse's 

pleasure 206 

Adapted for speed and exertion 19 

Additional bonds only provoke addi- 
tional struggles 228 

Advantage of, and peculiarities of 

the new slipper shoe Ill 

Advantages and disadvantages of all 

horns to give drinks with 74 

of the tin bottle 75 

Advantages of having the stable well 

regulated 339 

of nailing the new shoe to the toe 113 
of shoeing racers with tips 473 

Advantages secured by adopting the 

Arabian mode of nailing 105 

secured by movable mangers 191 

Advice to purchasers 121 

Aflfections of the horse 201 

Aftermeath, orrowen 174 

Age ought to be accurately observed 147 
renders the jaw-bone thin and 
narrow 153 



PAOB 

Ages have produced no change in 

the horse's treatment 223 

Agony is evinced by a "kidney drop- 
per," when the spine is pressed 269 
Air-passages, the, can alter their 

dimensions 25 

All animals are spoilt if too greatly 

petted 453 

in the same stable are subjected 

to the same usages 288 

creatures play with food when not 

hungry ....' 213 

feeding and drinking compart- 
ments should rest upon the 

ground 310 

hands should help the groom when 

the horse is exhausted 348 

horses are fully worked during 

the fourth year 150 

horses do not consume the like 

quantities of food 197 

needful security assured by open 

trevises in private stables 306 

Alteration in the nippers consequent 

upon old age 136 

Alterations are made to suit the de- 
clining breed of horses 432 

in the incisors 159 

Aloes, the retention of this medicine 

within the body 165 

become hard by keeping 57 

Aloes cannot be given to some horses 56 

often kill 56 

the purgative of the stable. 54 

very uncertain in its action 55 

Always choose a horse having good 

haunches 418 

see the horse led out of the stable 278 
Ambulatory, an, anticipates the ne- 
cessity of mounting in the stable 310 

Anatomical considerations 18 

Anatomists, were horses extinct, 
could tell their characters from 

their bones 17 

Ancient Arabian shoe 95 

Anecdote, about breeding horses 429 

(52T) 



528 



INDEX.- 



Anecdote concerning swerving in 

the horse 291 

illustrative of the evils generated 
by the present mode of exercise 303 

of a jibbing horse 284 

of the author and Van Amburg... 434 

to illustrate kicking 272 

Anger excited by the colt's restless- 
ness 209 

Angular prominences are upon the 
grinding surface of the new mo- 
lar tooth 156 

Animal, an, at five years old, pro- 
nounced to be in its prime 153 

not fitted for the saddle, is said to 

be suitable for harness 421 

Animals roll when their hair is un- 
comfortable 230 

after being conditioned are often 

passed by hacks 464 

are beaten when master complains 

of waste 213 

are guided by their experiences... 264 
are incapable of conjecturing con- 
sequences 264 

are said to eat their own heads off 367 
brought to market at three years 

old 146 

drink less, having water at com- 
mand 314 

having ewe necks are generally 

weak 391 

knowing no future, act on their 

experiences 218 

love most those who instruct them 283 
may be deeply diseased, and there- 
fore called "vicious" 271 

the, are secondary to household 

duties in genteel families 327 

when procured, become members 

of the purchaser's family 879 

Apparatus for steaming the horse's 

food _. 186 

Appearance, the, of horses is the 
strongest evidence against mod- 
ern stables 231 

Appliances needed to cleanse a car- 
riage 488 

Arab horse, the, conforms to no ar- 
bitrary mould 395 

Arabian mode of fastening the 

horse's shoe 100 

Arab tail is well set on, active, and 

powerful 387 

Arnica lotion used for rick of the 

back 275 

Arrangement in the components of 

the teeth 157 

of the gutters within stables 298 

Art cannot amend a natural devel- 
opment 450 



Ascertain, to, if the horse has been 

properly groomed 340 

Aspect of the mouth materially 

changes after the first year 138 

At grass, horses enjoy free commu- 
nication 307 

Attempted cures of jibbing are un- 
certain and expensive 283 

Attends at fairs and on market days 431 

Attend to the heels on the following 

morning 352 

Author's plan of nailing 105 

suggestions should be tried for 
their own sakes 297 



B. 

Back-bone of the horse 382 

Backing on to the gangway 278 

the horse out of the stall, supposes 

the spine to be injured 278 

Back of the stables 317 

the, as seen from above 381 

the, i| often injured 275 

the, is supported by eighteen ribs 

on either side 40 

Bad hay and corn commonly given 

to horses 179 

Bad hay often cut into chaff 177 

Bad qualities of the cow-bellied 

horse 404 

Balling, blistering, firing, and bleed- 
ing in veterinary practice 85 

Balling irons, common form of 62 

improved form of 62 

only of use to timidity or inex- 

perince 60 

Professor Varnell's newly Invented 62 

Balls, arguments in favor of 73 

caustics often employed in large 

doses with 68 

commonly intrusted to grooms 54 

horse, how made 54 

how prepared 57 

how moulded before delivery 58 

how to administer 63 

quiet mode of giving 67 

the form of 58 

the swallowing of, should be 

watched for 68 

Barouche and landau 482 

Bars or open trevises admit of equine 

familiarities 307 

Battering and fixedness aggravate 

the weakness of the fore limbs. 417 

Beans, bad sample of. 188 

Egyptian 188 

Egyptian, free from objection 188 

English, are too astringent 188 



INDEX. 



529 



Beans, English field, unwholesome 

when new 

good and bad sample of, con- 
trasted with each other 

should be steamed 

Beard is sometimes present on good 

oats 

Bearing-rein, the, interferes with 

the use of the head 

Beating the horse in a stable is dan- 
gerous 

Beauty in horses generally coincides 

with excellence of spirit 

Be brief in your inquiries in the 

dealer's yard 

Bed, a, is uncomfortable when not 

horizontal 

Beer recommended for the horse 

with a sensitive skin 

Behavior of grooms requires amend- 
ment 

to be exhibited toward dealers 

Bell, a, connected with the grooms' 
cottages, enables assistance to 

be summoned 

Benefits derived from having a stock 

of frosted shoes 

secured by a new mode of nail- 
ing 

Better division of work for the horse 
have no carriage than one kept in 

a damp shed 

Bird, the, returns to its cage, and the 

horse seeks its stable 

Birthday of all horses arbitrarily 

fixed by the Jockey Club 

Bishoped teeth 

Bishoping easily detected 

described 

Bit, the Pelham, its recommenda- 
tions., 

the Hackney and birdoon 

the Hanoverian 

Bits attached to ladies' bridles 

buckled and sewn on 

Blackguards who sell horses are not 

horse dealers 

Black mail is exacted by most 

grooms 

Blacksmith's forge, a, during frost... 

Bleeding can, its form and use 

fleam, described 

horses should be blinded before... 

lancet not recommended for 

not necessary in many cases 

strange love of 

was formerly fashionable 

Blistering and firing often united... 

a stable right through 

often resorted to, to please the 
owner 



187 

187 
188 

180 

389 

209 

399 

374 

257 

290 

338 
373 



325 

127 

105 
342 

324 



251 

146 
134 
134 
134 

522 

522 
523 
519 
519 

138 

329 
127 
88 
89 
91 
89 
87 
86 
85 
78 
80 



80 



Blistering oil should be procured of 

a chemist, and diluted 82 

oil should be quite clear 82 

ointment is made with old flies.... 82 

omnibus horses 81 

Blisters and oak bark proposed for 

rick of the back 275 

and the firing iron counteract each 

other 78 

are at present too powerful 78 

only of late years have been re- 
duced in strength .'.. 78 

Blood horses draw weight by strain 

upon the muscles 401 

can should be pressed against the 

neck 91 

if cold, and exposed to the air, 

becomes oxygenated 24 

mare and foal 430 

stick depicted 90 

when cold, has lost its living 

properties... 245 

Bloods want an infusion of a little 

cocktail 433 

Body, horse's, beautiful when skin- 
ned 45 

the, anatomically considered 17 

the, should be judged of as a 

whole 386 

Boiler-house between the gig-house 

and first loose box 321 

Bolting commonly ensues after a fit 

of jibbing 280 

through the stable door 239 

Bone bears the burden when the 

body descends a slope 253 

Bones, character of the animal pro- 
nounced by 17 

of the fore extremity, how retained 

in their places 42 

of the spine described..., 38 

of the forelegs, their action is 

regulated by the shoulders 408 

Bones, the, of the leg do not uphold 

each other 408 

Boy picking hay 172 

Boys should not be employed to lead 

horses through stable doors 240 

the, about training stables are 

not trustworthy 470 

Bracy Clark's jointed shoe, remarks 

on 118 

Bray of the donkey and neigh of the 

horse, how produced 47 

Brain, the, becomes congested by 

moving in circles 451 

Branch drains also oppose the in- 
gress of rats 300 

Branches of the lower jaw contract 

with age 136 

Bran mashes, how to prepare 55 



34 



530 



INDEX-. 



Bran maslies, more gentle and more 

safe than aloes 55 

Breaches of stable decorum by young 

horses 207 

Bread, given to horses in Germany, 

might be used as food 195 

Breaker, the, operates only on the 

fears of the colt 453 

Breaking and training 449 

begins at three years old 147 

loose 217 

should be gradually enforced from 

the earliest age 455 

Breaks are not often publicly used 

to exercise horses in 304 

Breast collar-strap 507 

Breathing life treated as it were an 

inanimate chattel 200 

Breeders should take example from 

the agriculturists 428 

Breeding, its inconsistencies and its 

disappointments 427 

of horses is at present altogether 

wrong 437 

suckling, and living on grass 446 

Bricks and mortar are valueless in 

comparison with horse flesh 298 

Bricklayer's trowel likened to the 

teeth 158 

Bringing the sole near to the ground, 

danger of 102 

Brittle hoof 99 

Brougham horse, a 871 

Brougham or phaeton harness 508 

Brushing or cutting about the pas- 
tern joint 121 

Bulk is not always an assurance of 

strength 419 

merely distends and injures the 

stomach 177 

Bull neck, a 891 

Bustle hails the appearance of a 

stranger in the stable 204 

Buy a young horse by the teeth as 

regards age 164 



C. 



Calkins destroying the even bearing 

of the foot 109 

in the slipper shoe made by thin- 
ning the quarters Ill 

Can, bleeding, its form and use 88 

blood should be pressed against 

the neck 91 

horses have aristocratic predilec- 
tions 215 

Capacity of most doors to stables... 235 
Capital and tact required to job car- 
riages successfully 368 



Carriage, a, without C springs, and 

a brougham 483 

harness, a full suit of 504 

horses are not kept by the Lon- 
don dealers 367 

houses are always large enough... 233 
the treatment required for, when 

in its house 492 

Carriages 477 

congregate on wet nights before 

fashionable mansions 323 

Carrying round the food to the sta- 
bles 192 

Carters sit upon the loins of young 

horses 265 

Cart horse, a 401 

with a Roman nose 394 

horses are not formed to trot 273 

have long mustaches 394 

Cartilage nictitans 36 

its special use and action 36 

Carts should never exist without 

springs 386 

Cast in the stall 231 

under the manger 259 

Cause of chink of the back is the 

greed of proprietors 273 

Cause of odd hoofs in the horse 413 

Causes of cutting 121 

which increase the liability of the 

foreleg to injury , 416 

Caustics dangerous as internal medi- 
cine 59 

Cavity of the pulp in the molar teeth 157 
Ceiling of stables, how it is formed 316 
Certain steeds snap and bite when 

being dressed too violently 289 

Channel diminishes with age 136 

Character and color of upland hay 173 

lowland hay 173 

Cheap harness is generally danger- 
ous 496 

horses are not to be bought in 

London 359 

Cheapness is not economy when 

buying oats 182 

Chiffney bit, the 523 

Child, a, might sit the thorough- 
bred trot 421 

Chink of the back 266 

Circular chest, the, good for slow 

work 401 

exercise 452 

motion induces blindness 451 

Clark, of Edinburgh, his old shoe 

preferred to new inventions 121 

Classic mind, the, recognized the 

signification of the horse 242 

Clean saddle, how to 516 

Cleaning harness, the proper method 

of .. 504 



INDEX. 



53] 



Cleansing and cooling with hot and 

cold water , 349 

an exhausted horse 348 

an undipped horse 347 

Clearing the fence 462 

Cleaveland bays are a dangerous 

property 368 

Clinches are more secure when made 

upon the toe 114 

Clicking or forging common toward 

the end of a long journey 124 

Clipped horse, a, is a deformity 346 

Clipping and singeing 343 

induce many terrible disorders.... 344 

Clock-loft and lumber-room above 

the sheltered simce 320 

Closing the wound after having bled 

the horse 92 

Clothes and saddle cannot be re- 
tained on the herring-gutted 
horse 404 

Clover hay, first crop of 174 

second crop of. 175 

Coal-cellar 319 

Coaxing the foal to feed 444 

Coax the horse when giving medicine 78 

Collar-rope is bitten through with- 
out design 216 

Collar- strap disfigures the neck and 

mane 218 

Colt at three years may cut sixteen 

teeth 149 

Colts are way ward creatures 207 

Comminution of the food described.. 155 

Common form of horn employed to 

administer drinks 74 

Common sense is alone necessary to 

understand horses 524 

Common stallions are generally led 

through the country 431 

Comparison between the wild and 

domesticated horse 201 

Complex calculations required of the 

horse dealer 362 

Composure returns only when the 

rug is destroyed 287 

Compound soap liniment recom- 
mended for rick of the back 275 

Condition of horses referred to 432 

of stable windows generally 315 

of the blood explains the diseases 
of the foot 246 

Conduct of most drivers when the 

horse bolts 293 

Conjunctiva, nature and distribution 

of 35 

Consequences of being cast in the 

collar-rope 224 

of being cast under the manger... 259 
of too much paring, miscalled dis- 
ease 106 



Contents of the abdomen and thorax 403 
Continued standing is a bad symp- 
tom 352 

Contraction of the jaw-bones forces 

the teeth into the mouth 158 

Contrast between a three-year old 
and a bishoped sixteen-year old 

mouth 135 

between the permanent and milk 

incisor teeth 160 

Cooking food for horses no novelty 193 
Copers esteem a kidney dropper a 

valuable horse 269 

the, always flurry a horse when 

pretending to show it 277 

Corner incisors first cut at nine 

months old 141 

milk incisors, being shed, an- 
nounce five years old 153 

Corns are natural to upright hoofs... 415 

Corn promotes fat 187 

should be crushed on the prem- 
ises 184 

when crushed, requires further 

preparation 186 

Corpora nigra, present in the horse 

and camel 31 

Cost of a separate house for the 
groom would be fifteen pounds 

per annum 333 

of horse flesh is much increased by 

hard food 166 

Coughing, its danger during the ad- 
ministration of a drink 75 

provoked by raising the head 76 

Countenance during a fit of jibbing 282 

Countersinking for driving nails 113 

Course of the food, how arranged... 28 

Covered ride round the stable 302 

Cow-bellied or pot-bellied horse, the 

evils of. 404 

Cribbing induced by confinement 

and indigestion 205 

Crime is the climax of social frailty 426 
Crowded forges prevented by laving 

in a stock of frosted shoes .,■.... 127 

Cruel imprisonment 201 

Cruelties undergone at three years 

old 148 

Cruelty and roguery are associated.. 425 

cannot promote development 164 

is practiced to coerce the jibber... 280 
of rasping the hoof to fit a small 

shoe 131 

of the present mode of breaking in 141 

resorted to after bleeding 94 ■ 

sometimes changes the action of 

the straight shoulder 406 

unintentionally inflicted on all 

horses 168 

Cruiser and Mr. Rarey 453 



532 



INDEX. 



Crusta pelrosa 157 

is endowoid with a limited power 
of growth 158 

Cures proposed for cutting from ex- 
haustion 122 

Curry-comb should be abolished 337 

Curveting and lunging are alike in 

their influences 449 

Customers are protected by the au- 
thor's recommendations 378 

should be better suited than 
pleased 364 

Custom of the drivers attached to 

the former fly wagons 265 

Cutting away the horny sole 108 

often produced by exhaustion 123 



D. 

Damp stables are equally costly and 

dangerous 322 

Danger consequent upon the inter- 
nal use of caustics 59 

of casting the entire weight upon 

the wall 103 

of coughing during the giving of 

a drink 75 

of getting the hind leg beyond the 

post of the stall 230 

of gorging on dry wheat 169 

of standing in the manger 209 

Dangers of racing plates 114 

of the present method of nailing.. 100 
Darkness does not incapacitate the 

horse's eye 32 

Date is apt to deceive the breeder... 440 

Dead donkeys not rare 47 

Dealers buy with a view to certain 

purchasers 375 

do not show all their stock to 

every chance customer 138 

generally possess one or two 

blo(^-weeds 369 

horses are exercised in front of 

the house windows 304 

take much trouble to buy horses.. 359 
visit horse fairs and breeders of 

stock 364 

will not submit a horse of known 
unsoundness to a veterinary ex- 
amination 378 

Deformity consequent on neglect of 

the hoof 102 

Deglutition described 29 

Degree of motion permitted in the 

stable 202 

Deluging with water does not please 

the horse 346 

Dentine 157 



Depth of the lower jaw in the young 

horse accounted for 157 

Deranged stomach denoted by fas- 
tidious and by voracious appe- 
tite 196 

Detailed description of the surface- 
gutters of the stable 299 

Development of the hyoideal muscles 400 
Diagrams of the opposite formation 

of thorax 402 

Difference between fullering and 

countersinking 118 

between man and horse in their 

lodging 233 

in the food of man and horse when 

in training 170 

of head in a one and a two-year old 144 
Different articles eaten by horses ... 166 

forms of pasterns 410 

kinds of ears 396 

kinds of snaiHes 521 

Digestion deranged by modern sta- 
bles and present food 196 

of the horse is frequently impaired 342 
Disease in the horse is exposed to 

the conjectures of ignorance 285 

Discovered in the morning with the 

head under the manger 258 

Dishonest dealers always demand a 

written warranty 365 

Disposition of the horse should be 

studied 77 

Dock, the, should be regarded as a 

continuation of the back-bone.. 386 
Domesticated animals generally live 

on prepared food 167 

horse is very old by its thirtieth 

year 165 

Donkey, the, belongs to the equine 

race 46 

Donkeys natural to the sandy desert 48 
have to toil after man's day of la- 
bor has ended 51 

prejudices concerning, tend to 

their misery 51 

serve only the poor 49 

the loins of, uphold riders 51 

thrust into any hole for the night. 49 
work before the master begins to 

labor 50 

Do not coax a tired horse to feed.... 351 
Do not punish the horse for jibbing. 281 
Doors of stables should fold, or be 

divided through the center 307 

open on to the ambulatory 307 

size of, according to Professor 

Stewart 235 

Double coach-house 319 

Doubt as to the weakness of a hol- 
low back 384 

Down in the hip 237 



INDEX. 



533 



Drag on the clinclies the conse- 
quence of the thin heel shoe 120 

Draught horses require high and 

good haunches 421 

Draughts in crowded stables enable 

the horses to live 81 

Draughtsmen, their qualifications.., 478 

Dress, a, carriage and a chariot 482 

Dressing the heels 358 

the horse 340 

Drinking, the manner of, explained. 71 
Drinks or draughts, a form of horse 

physic 68 

danger of administering 69 

generally objected to 68 

reasons for these objections 68 

sometimes poured down the nos- 
tril 69 

the objection to so giving medi- 
cine 73 

usual mode of giving 74 

Driving a nail too fine 100 

Dry fodder prematurely wears down 

the teeth 183 

Drying the heels 350 

Dryness affects the nature of the 

horse's food 171 

Dusk, and at ten o'clock, duties of... 341 
Duties of the night-watcher 325 



E. 

Each groom should lead two horses 

to exercise 306 

Earning its keep during lactation... 436 
Early and late is the best time for 

exercise 466 

Ears, different kinds of 396 

Eastern elevation of the contem- 
plated stables... 325 

Education, modern, makes men 

knowing and not good 198 

should commence with birth 455 

Effects of living upon grass in the 

field 430 

Egyptian beans are mild and sweet.. 188 
Eight months' solitary imprisonment 

is not rest 475 

Eight o'clock duties 340 

Employers should be blamed for the 

groom's debasement 330 

Employment of the drawing knife a 

necessity 106 

Enamel 157 

English mode of paring the foot 102 

thorough-bred tail approaches to 

the Arab 387 

Entire horses are not necessarily 

savages 433 



Entreaty not to credit the possibility 

of a "vicious animal" 294 

Equine race, the, are treated as 
creatures without habits or in- 
stincts 241 

Estimable qualities of hollow-backed 

horses 384 

Even man's generosity causes the 

horse to suffer 475 

Every gentleman his own horse- 
breaker 453 

Everything in the stable yields trib- 
ute to the groom 330 

Evils of long nights to horses and to 

grooms 198 

of modern stables 200 

Ewe neck, an 391 

Exaggerated view of a weakly ani- 
mal with dangerous action 424 

Examine the angles of the mouth 

before purchasing 398 

Excellence of the racer's action in 

the trot 420 

Excessive weakness has lost many a 

race 472 

Exchanges, with horses, are very 

expensive 378 

Excited horse, mouth of an 288 

Excitement ensues upon first sniffing 

the pure air 334 

prevented by rapidly and silently 

distributing the food 312 

Exercise, during training, is given 

at mid-day 466 

can be given in all weathers under 

the ambulatory 803 

Exhausting labor renders bleeding 

unnecessary 87 

Exhaustion in youth is a bad pre- 
parative for the stud-farm 428 

Expense of feeding the horse, how 

inci'eased 193 

would not be increased by proper 

treatment 463 

Experiments, uselessness of, as a test 

for medicine 60 

Experiment, testing the effects of a 

thick and of a thin covering 344 

Explanation of the doctor's difficulty 303 

of the term "May bird" 364 

of the word "nicking" 387 

Expression of the ears 396 

Extended view obtained by mount- 
ing into the manger 210 

Extravagance of hard food 166 

Extreme age rare in the horse 88 

Eye, the, is a certificate of the horse's 

origin 30 

Eyes, the, of the horse are much 

exposed to injury 291 

various sorts of 397 



534 



INDEX. 



F. 



Foetus, the, is injured by the mothen 

being sucked while breeding.... 445 
Filse nostrils, situation, nature and 

uses of 25 

Fancy is most active in the weakest 

intellects 227 

Fangs of the milk teeth are absorbed 160 
Farmers, the, idea of a breeding mare 447 
Fat is laid on, although lameness 

exists in the foreleg 243 

is promoted by the food — horses 

are sweated to remove fat 467 

Faults inseparable from stables 233 

Fearful change takes place when a 

horse is "thrown up" to breed. 435 

Fed between the bursts 472 

Feeding of the grazing and the sta- 
bled horse 429 

the mare 455 

the newly-born foal 443 

Feeling, instincts or inclinations of 

the horse are never heeded. 198 

Feet of farm horses are generally 

sound 246 

of thorough-breds generally bad.. 115 

Felt under-pad 512 

Few gentlemen's stables are sup- 
plied with the best grain 181 

grooms live in the house 327 

horse dealers die rich 367 

horses reach their thirtieth year.. 155 
human beings should be exposed 

to the groom's temptations 330 

tails are well set on 387 

Fleam, the, as made to be struck by 

the hand 89 

the, is preferable to the lancet 89 

the, described as used for bleeding 89 
Field (newspaper) description of 

roughing, from 129 

Fifth molar present by the second 

year 145 

Fired, sometimes, and blistered af- 
ter it ^ 78 

Fire has been kindled under a jib- 
bing horse 281 

First crop of clover 174 

drops of blood taken from the 

forefoot are cold 248 

lessons in breaking should com- 
mence with the foal 141 

permanent tooth appears at one 

year old 142 

the, harness put on a foal 456 

Fittings needed for the interior of a 

carriage 490 

of the sheltered space 320 

Five-feet wide doors do very well for 

sleepy animals 237 



Flattery is much relished by all 

lower life 456 

Flesh is only another name for mus- 
cle 381 

Flexor muscle, the, influences the 

direction of the foot 412 

Flooring of the proposed stables 

described '. 298 

Foal first nips the grass when four 

months old 141 

one fortnight after birth 139 

the, may accompany the mare in 

her work 436 

Foals are generally crippled before 

they are born 428 

should be taught to regard men 

as friends 444 

teeth at birth 139 

Folly of docking 380 

of employing blisters to the legs.. 79 
of ornamental scroll work instead 

of plain bars 306 

of tying a horse by its head to 

the manger 225 

Food , 168 

for the foal if the mare's milk is 

tardy 448 

not thoroughly digested when pre- 
sented dry 165 

of horses is contaminated in mod- 
ern stables 318 

proper for an exhausted horse 347 

should be proportioned to the ani- 
mal's fatigue 351 

the greatest of many evils under 

which horses suffer 169 

when too abundant is wasted 212 

Foot, the, perspires through the horn 353 

Foreleg over the collar-rope 221 

Forelegs in the manger 208 

Forelimb is not a straight pillar 409 

the, is joined to the trunk by mus- 
cle 41 

Forge, horse's dread of 109 

strange custom of charging differ- 
ent prices in 110 

the state of the, during a sudden 

frost 127 

Formation of the soil of stable 301 

Former shoes, unsuit for modern use 96 
Form of thorax which is best suited 

for slow and for fast work 402 

the, of a mare for breeding 438 

Four fully-grown permanent incis- 
ors only denote three years of 

age 147 

miles an hour is a fair exercising 

pace 305 

or five o'clock duties 341 

permanent incisors in each jaw 
announce four years old 152 



INDEX. 



535 



Four "roomy" stalls may be con- 
verted into three loose boxes.... 332 

Fourth molar is the first permanent 

tooth 142 

year, at the, the horse should be 
taught to leap 416 

Four-year olds are thought to need 

no indulgence 151 

Four-year old colt may be placed 

between shafts 459 

Fracture of the haunch disqualifies 

for a gentleman's service 238 

Freedom is naturally desired by the 

horse 220 

Freemasonry, the, which exists be- 
tween steed and rider 372 

French martingale, the use of 518 

revolution, the nobleman and Bas- 
tile 252 

Frequent change of shoes injures 

the feet of thorough-breds 473 

Friction, when brisk, warms more 

than slow walking exercise 352 

Frog and sole injured by the wedge- 
heeled shoe 119 

Front of the new stable has no in- 
termediate rails 319 

teeth appear to be but temporary. 145 
teeth stick out like spikes at thirty 
years of age 167 

Frosted shoes worn out in three or 

four days 128 

Frosting or roughing as generally 

performed 128 

Fullered shoe 113 

Full loins are generally associated 

with a stout dock 398 

set of horse clothes 498 

Fuzzy tail disa^jpears at one-year old 143 



G. 

Grangway, the, should be kept clean 338 
General complaint of the roguery of 

horse dealers 425 

mode of leading the horse out of 

the stable 236 

view of the shoulder and foreleg.. 416 
Gentlemen like the springy seat af- 
forded by a young spine 146 

should respect their station when 

treating with dealers 378 

when ignorant of horse flesh, 

should not attempt display 870 

Gentleness and caution requisite 

when trying a fresh horse 372 

should be displayed during a fit 

of jibbing 282 

Gentle riding and proper grooming 

would sustain condition 475 



German silver makes the best orna- 
ments for harness 496 

Gestation is opposed to lactation 445 

Get up 351 

Gig, a, and a two-wheeled dog cart.. 485 

Gig harness and kicking-strap 502 

house 319 

Girths of saddles generally consid- 
ered 509 

Giving a horse a quart of malt liquor 347 

out macerated food 191 

Glycerin and rose-water removes 

scurf. 290 

wash, the mode of applying it to 

the skin 337 

Gnawing the manger rail the result 

of long captivity 204 

Good bridle, the characteristics of... 517 
feeders are too commonly sluggish 

animals 352 

form, a, generally requires little 

aid in foaling 439 

horse, the, is good for every pur- 
pose 420 

oatmeal, how to recognize 178 

oats display no vast difi"erence in 

size 180 

reach, a, in the trot, a valuable 

quality in a hack 420 

saddle, a, should fall into its 

proper place 515 

shoes are spoiled by being roughed 128 
Gowing's, Mr., mode of giving a 

ball 65 

its advantages and defects 66 

Graced with the sweetest manners, 

sells the horses 362 

Grass, horses are generally shod with 

tips when out at 116 

suggests the food of the horse 20 

the natural food of the undomes- 

ticated horse 133 

Great muscular power is necessi- 
tated to move the head 388 

Greenhorns disliked by the regular 

dealer 373 

Green meat and mashes are better 

than aloes 469 

Grooms 327 

conceive the horse injures them... 222 
display the union of innocence and 

knowingness 354 

doing house work generally neg- 
lect the stable 355 

flog the horse for standing in the 

gutter 257 

generally manage their nominal 

masters 229 

imagine the foot to be a mystery.. 353 

like fat in horses 212 

like the horse to have hard meat., 193 



5U6 



INDEX. 



Grooms never regard cutaneous sen- 
sitiveness as a disease 285 

pretend to comprehend impossi- 
bilities 355 

pride themselves upon being 
"close" 355 

regard see-sawing as a fearful 
"vice" 205 

report effects, and never hint at 
causes 229 

ride as they please when exercis- 
ing horses 303 

singe the hairs inside the horse's 
ears 395 

should not ride when exercising 

horses 306 

Groom's room is situated over the 

boiler-house 324 

idea of a horse's long imprison- 
ment 211 

secret mixtures are the originals 

of patent food 196 

Ground plan of the proposed stables 321 
Gruel is proper for an exhausted 

horse 351 

Guess only at the age after the fifth 

year 163 



H. 

Hair should never be inclosed in the 

wound after bleeding 93 

Hairs from oats are felted together 

in the stomach 183 

on the oat 182 

Half an acre of close grass should be 

attached to each loose box 309 

Hames with double eyes 506 

Handling the feet 457 

Hand-over-hand pace, the, is bad... 423 

Hard food must be a tax on the 

muscular system 467 

provender wears the teeth and 

shortens the life 165 

substances derange the horse's di- 
gestion 186 

Hardships undergone at three years 

old 148 

Harness and food are benefited when 

separated from stables 317 

and stable sundries 494 

for the young 456 

horses are usually imperfectly 
broken 459 

Hat, the, should be removed before 

a horse is led out of the stable.. 240 

Haunch-bone is often broken by 

striking against the door-post.. 238 

Haunches, the, will express the qual- 
ities of the horse 419 



Hay, aftermeath 174 

clover, first crop 174 

second crop 176 

from legumens might cost more, 

but would be better 189 

heated 175 

loft, the, should be over the coach- 
house 333 

lowland 173 

musty 176 

promotes fat 189 

should be sorted before it is placed 

in the rack 171 

upland 172 

weather beaten 176 

Head, carried straight out is un- 
graceful and unsafe 390 

the, must be retracted before the 

horse can rise 260 

the, by its movements inclines the 

body in certain directions 380 

the, denotes the treatment of the 

horse 393 

Health suffers from improper food .. 169 
Heaped manger unsuited for a fam- 
ished horse 178 

Heat and impurity naturally pro- 
voke cuticular irritability 224 

and moisture correct the un- 

wholesomeness of food 190 

Heaving at the flanks 440 

Heavy animals were formerly used 

for gentle purposes 422 

carts having long reins are inju- 
rious to the horse's spine 273 

Heels are left unprotected if the 

shoeing is neglected 106 

Herald painting — how its charges 

are regulated 478 

Herbs, when dried, retain their prop- 
erties 171 

Herring-gutted horse^ the disad- 
vantages of 403 

High-spirited horses are the most 

troublesome when confined 215 

stubborn horn the author prefers 

in the horse's foot 414 

Hind hoofs enjoy a freedom denied 

to the forefeet 244 

legs, the, have a tendency to in- 
crease the burden of the fore 

limbs 417 

Hinge of the spine for rearing 44 

Hobble the hind legs of a mare 441 

Hogs' skins are seldom perfect 515 

Hollow-backed horse 383 

cavity at the toe of the slipper shoe 111 
Home, a, for a horse is not the same 

thing as a home for a man 298 

Hoofs are spoiled by roughing lur- 
ing frost 128 



INDEX. 



537 



Hopeless struggle of mankind 200 

Horn for giving drinks, common 

form of. 74 

improved form of. 74 

of the hoof described 98 

whalebone and wood are best for 

stable instruments 336 

Horse auction marts deal largely in 

unsound horses 277 

a, when sold should suit the pur- 
chaser 361 

dealers 357 

dealers are alive to the value of 

their stock 379 

dealers generally occupy the same 

place at successive fairs 365 

is intended to run unshod over 

grass land 116 

is very choice when eating grass. 170 
its disposition should be studied... 77 
lowers the head to feed and 

drink 170 

the, cannot turn in its stall with- 
out twisting the back 279 

the, has embraced its position 252 

the, has not changed with the mu- 
tation of society 449 

the, squatting suddenly like a dog 

denotes a kidney dropper 267 

knowledge is not a mystery 524 

Horses when they speedy cut are 

liable to fall, as though shot.... 423 
should be taken into use with bo- 
dies uninjured 463 

are always blamed for human 

carelessness 234 

are by grooms credited only with 

evil qualities 216 

are furnished with the means of 

self-injury 262 

are inclined to rest at mid-day.... 468 
are often captives for many days 

in the stall 211 

are put to the greatest exertion at 

five years of age 153 

are seldom dressed when brought 

home late 230 

are starved when confined to small 

stables 81 

body still beautiful even when the 

skin is removed .' 45 

can protrude their heads through 

the half-opened doors 308 

can see in comparative darkness.. 228 

dread the forge 109 

eating from the ground, require 

no hay-rack 310 

eat various substances in different 

countries 194 

have no right to do as they like 

with their lives 207 



Horses have perished from all four 

feet being blistered 78 

have to sleep on slanting pave- 
ment 256 

having wide hips and large thighs 

very seldom cut 122 

intended to breed should be ten- 
derly nurtured 435 

lower the head while drinking 76 

must feel their captivity 202 

should be exercised on the prem- 
ises 304 

slide backward on the slanting 

pavement 259 

the, painted by Stubbs, are lost to 

the present generation 407 

their rest broken by the inclina- 
tion of their beds 257 

which kick when the foot is in the' 
stirrup are often quiet when 

mounted 272 

clothes generally much too short.. 350 
Horse flesh is being ruined by the 

race-course 432 

Hot-water pipes traverse the pro- 
posed stable 322 

How grooms contrive to spend so 

much money 329 

to examine for kidney dropping .. 268 

for the signs of cutting 428 

to feed a famished animal 178 

to feed a hunter .... 471 

to feed the mare and foal 443 

to make good gruel 178 

to macerate food 190 

to procure good oats 182 

to recognize a bishoped tooth 134 

Human child not a man when the 

permanent teeth appear 152 

Humanity in purchasers would de- 
stroy roguery in dealers 425 

Hunters, as a rule, are not kept by 

the London trade 369 

must be over four years old 146 

Hunting breast-plate 511 



Impaling the foot on a projecting 

nail 101 

Imperfect vision renders a horse 

dangerous 293 

Importance of warmth to the horse.. 322 
Impossible to convince most grooms. 220 
to make the teeth declare a horse 

older than it really is 168 

Imprisonment engenders eagerness 

to breathe the fresh air 237 

Improvement has not reached the 

jail of the horse 297 



538 



INDEX. 



Impure air, sameness of food, and 

confinement generate disease.... 243 
residence, an, generates a morbid 
craving 329 

In cavalry stables, horses are sepa- 
rated by bales 307 

Incisor teeth are not employed in 

the stable 167 

Incisors, the, which denote a three- 
year old 147 

Inclination of the feet of horses 412 

Incline of the superficial gutters — 301 

Inferior margin of the jaw still thick 

at four years old 151 

oats possess the longest hairs 183 

specimens of oats commonly adul- 
terated 179 

Injm-y done by boys who hold your 

honor's horse 124 

occasioned to the crust of the 

hoof by nailing 100 

often done by the laws of the 

Jockey Club 146 

or blemish is feared by dealers as 
much as death 366 

Inquiry into the conduct of colt and 

groom 209 

Instinctive acts in man 295 

Instruction properly imparted does 

not strain the body 461 

Interior of the stable should be 

colored green 316 

In the end, it is cheapest to act justly 331 
field, horses rest with the hind 

legs highest 247 

stable, horses stand with the fore- 
feet highest ., 248 

Inward soft organs govern the hard- 
est outward secretions 118 

Irish horses are famed as good 

fencers 462 

Itching and scratching rank as vices 

in the stable 223 



J. 

Jaw-bone becomes thin and narrow 

with age '. 153 

in early life, is full and round at 

the lower margin 142 

Jaw, the, of a two-year old intimates 

approaching change 145 

Jealousy regarding a choice colt 376 

Jibbing first alluded to 280 

is as common now as it was for- 
merly 286 

is equine epilepsy 280 

most common in heavy and in har- 
ness horses 282 



Jobbing requires skill in placing 

horses 368 

Job-masters assert the straight 
shoulder is the best for harness 

purposes 406 

the, terms of. 368 

Jockey Club, folly of its laws 146 

further alluded to 163 

Jolly fun of the trainer's stable 470 



K. 

Keep the stableman to his duties.... 355 
Kettle, a two-gallon, wanted in every 

stable 178 

Kicker, a, and a biter 434 

Kickers often stand quiet when 

mounted on the opposite side... 273 

Kicking in the night 227 

"Kidney dropping" is esteemed a 

terrible "vice" 266 

Kidneys, the, are not concerned in 
what is termed "kidney drop- 
ping" 270 

Kiln-dried oats, to detect 185 

"Kim ovare" 336 

Kindle an opposite emotion and fear 

is destroyed 293 

Kindness preferable to any mechani- 
cal restraint 61 

is especially remunerative when 

bestowed upon the mare 437 

is responded to even when con- 
sciousness is partly lost 283 

Kinds of horn composing the wall of 

the hoof. 98 

Know your own wants before a 

dealer's yard is entered 373 

Konisberg oats 180 



L. 

Labial action often mistaken in the 

horse 524 

Lachrymal gland 35 

Lad, a, should be allowed in every 

stable 332 

Ladies flushed' from the ball-room 

often sleep in damp carriages... 323 

patent stirrup 514 

Lady, the, and the magistrate 164 

Lady's palfrey in the reign of Charles 

the Second 422 

side-saddle 518 

bridle is generally light 517 

"Lampas" explained 157 

Lamps, large and small, for a car- 
riage 492 



INDEX. 



539 



Large lungs favor the increase of 

weight 401 

nostrils and mouth show breeding 

in a horse 397 

stables are generally well man- 
aged 332 

Lying on the gangway 261 

Lead liniment softens the exudation 

after blistering. 84 

Leanness of hay-fed horses ac- 
counted for 189 

Leaping, how it should be taught... 461 
Legitimate horse dealers, all have 

private yards 358 

as a body, are honorable men._ 360 

Legs, lower pai-ts of the, contain no 

muscles to stimulate 82 

of the horse highly sensitive 79 

Legumens, sown broadcast and 
reaped, form a better kind of 

hay 189 

Length of back is of no separate im- 
portance 386 

Let no man talk about a "vicious 

horse" 295 

Licking the manger, an endeavor to 

make employment 204 

Life is fixed to no one condition 371 

Light draught horses can best dis- 
pense with muscular loins 383 

generally stops the kicking in the 

night 227 

should always be present in the 

stable 228 

work need only exercise the mare 436 
Lining of harness is soiled by bad 

grooms 505 

Liquid which drains from steamed 

food is a nutritious drink 186 

Liquor arsenicalis is good for the 

skin 290 

Load, the, being delivered, the heavy 

cart is trotted back 273 

Locality for the proposed stable 319 

Lofty crest, a, is best induced by 

proper food 460 

Loins, the, are without bony support 382 
cannot be too large or muscular.. 382 
transmit the force of the haunches 382 
the spines of, and of the sacrum, 

point diiferent ways 44 

Long and short legs, the value of 

each 405 

Loop, a, of string, used instead of a 

twitch 75 

Loose boxes eighteen feet square ... 298 
would cure many "vices" of the 

stable 222 

shoes, perils of 101 

Low-bred haunches express weak- 
ness 418 



Lower jaw becomes sharp with age. iSo 

Lowland hay 173 

Lunging 451 

Lungs, capacity of, illustrated 1§ 



M. 

Mail phaeton, a, and four-wheeled 

dog cart 484 

Malt liquor, horses soon grow fond 

of '347 

Man alarms the horse by needless 

cruelties 263 

alone has conceived a life without 

a pleasure 206 

and horse supposed to change po- 
sitions — the result 206 

could not create the perfection 

which he injures 44 

is not more gregarious than the 

horse 474 

is not more humane than formerly 381 
is to blame for the horse's stable 

conduct 211 

neglects the life which cannot be 

repaired 234 

not fitted to exert absolute au- 
thority 80 

and horse are not a match in 

strength 521 

Man's fingers, a, cannot test the ex- 
pansibility of a horse's foot 415 

responsibility, how evaded 53 

senseless adherence to antiquated 

forms 452 

Manger, the, rope fastens the head 
immediately under the opening 

to the hay-loft 310 

Manner of judging the limbs 423 

of using the blood can 92 

Manners, the, requisite in a horse 

dealer 361 

Many animals are ruined in the 

breaking 452 

animals become restless when 

clothed for the night 286 

artisans, conjunction of, to form a 

carriage manufactory 479 

grooms also expected to act as 

gardeners 327 

horses are unable to pass through 

a stable door with calmness 239 

houses have doors far larger than 

any stable 235 

horses lamed by the wedge-heeled 

shoe 119 

muscles of the haunch rise close 

to the dock 387 

smiths will profess to cure click- 
ing 125 



540 



INDEX. 



Many things must change before 

present customs alter 331 

Mare, a, generally hardly treated ... 445 
Marks of the teeth are unworthy of 

dependence 137 

Macerating box for food 190 

Mastication a compound process 155 

Master and groom like a quiet stable 203 

May bird 364 

Medicine, the less the better during 

training 469 

Melton girth and martingale 509 

Men desire only to know the physi- 
cal necessities and capabilities 

of the horse 199 

who know nothing of such mat- 
ters, order the building of sta- 
bles 234 

Meshwork of veins, a, lies under 
the secreting membrane of the 

hoof 245 

Method of treating the newly-born 

foal 443 

Midst noise and bustle the horse 

dealer must be calm 361 

Might not Egyptian beans be grown 

in England? 188 

Miles's works on the horse's feet 

recommended 415 

Miniature dewlap a good point 400 

Minor operations 53 

Mistake, the, of a summer's rest 464 

Mode of dressing a wot horse 349 

of distributing food to restless 

horse 312 

of fastening the Arabian shoe 100 

of sitting the horse in the olden 

time 450 

Model foot, the, is not good in the 

author's opinion 414 

Modern Arabian shoe 95 

carriages are fraught with danger 

to the upper classes 323 

mode of nailing 97 

stables as they may be adapted.... 332 

stables invite accidents 262 

Molars are not level in aged horses. 154 
Molar teeth are not all of one size 

or the like form 155 

tooth of an aged horse 159 

Money does not constitute the entire 

price of a good horse 375 

is saved by encouraging habits of 

regularity 318 

paid to the job-master 369 

sunk in stables is most remunera- 
tive.. 298 

More bonds do not destroy the desire 

to be free 220 

important portion of the groom's 
duties 343 



Morning exercise should begin the 

day's work 340 

exercise, the, is essential to the 

master's safety 334 

Most corn-chandlers do not keep the 

heavier oats 182 

horsemen do not comprehend the 

utility of the neck 389 

masters only know their horses 

through the groom's report 222 

people who buy and sell horses 

are cheats 357 

well-bred horses have stubborn 

necks 390 

Mother's milk, allowed to the young, 

best secures development 446 

Motion and sensation of the hind 

limbs depend on the spinal cord 270 
of the quarters aids the pedal cirr 

culation 114 

Mounting a horse is a good test for 

its excellence 417 

Mouths, large, small, and dejected.. 397 

Movable and fixed ring 507 

manger 191 

Movement of the feet is regulated by 

the condition of the body 126 

Mr. Lupton's recommendation of 

White's method of roughing.... 129 
Mr. Percival rode an animal shod 

with tips on the London stones. 116 
Mucous membrane, when inflamed, 

greatly weakens 465 

Much would be gained if the reader 
only acknowledged the writer 

right in theory 463 

is learned by watching the groom 

lead a horse out of the stable... 278 
the same now as in the seven- 
teenth century 449 

Muscles exist in pairs 253 

how these operate upon the eye... 33 
the, of mastication force the ven- 
ous blood to the heart 23 

Musty hay 176 

Mysterious conduct of grooms 335 



N. 

Nags are now more ridden by others 

than by their masters 334 

Nails, reasons for driving into the toe 113 

Natural process of drinking de 

scribed 70 

diagram, of 71 

Nature does not obey the laws of the 

Jockey Club 146 

has allowed vacant spaces to exist, 
so as to preserve the beautv of 
the head 27 



INDEX. 



54J 



Nature pauses after the first year ... 144 
should decide the period of lacta- 
tion 446 

Nature's toil regulated by density of 

structure 151 

Nearly every man will sell his un- 
sound horse 269 

Nearness to the heart does not ex- 
plain want of sensation in the 

foreleg 243 

Necessity for ascertaining the cus- 
tomer's desires 363 

Neck, the, generally indicates the 

disposition 889 

Neglected foot of the ass 102 

Never buy a horse said to be equal 

to your weight 418 

decide upon the first trial of a 

horse 373 

enter the stable where horses are 

kicking 227 

finger the horse you mean to pur- 
chase 372 

leave the animal before the bleed- 
ing is finished 92 

lose sight of the horse you con- 
template buying 279 

mount a strange nag in a crowded 

locality 272 

purchase a horse without a veter- 
inary examination of it 425 

Newly, the, born foal 442 

New shoe, the, has many recommend- 
ations 114 

Nibbling the wood-work induced by 

enforced idleness 204 

Nicking was a senseless barbarity... 380 

Night before the horse fair 359 

clothing 499 

the horse can see as well in, as the 

cat 32 

watcher, a, enables the food to be 

better distributed 325 

Nine o'clock duties 341 

Nippers is a misnomer when applied 
to the front teeth of the stabled 

horse 167 

only inspected to ascertain the age 137 
No accident should teach a horse 

doors and pain are associated... 308 
instrument formed of steel or iron 

should be permitted in the stable 335 
jockeyism can foretell the attack 

of kidney dropping 266 

man can know all about the breed- 
ing of all animals 427 

means can eradicate the evils of 
stables while pavement slopes... 251 

muscles present on the shin 410 

one would purchase, did horse 
dealers speak the truth 360 



No teeth no horse 133 

unknown undividual can" pick the 
dealer's stock 375 

wild horses are known to be in 

existence 437 

Northern extremity of the stables 

divided into three small rooms.. 317 

Nose alone breathed through 09 

Nostrils, the, indicate the dimen- 
sions of the lungs 399 

Novel use made of the manger 210 

Noxious atmosphere, a, compels the 

resort to stimulants 329 



O. 

Oatmeal, good, described 180 

Oats are a most extravagant feed for 

horses 194 

are often moistened to increase 

their bulk 185 

best Scotch 180 

English feed 185 

English, from Canadian seed 180 

Finland black 184 

first class Swedes 181 

hair calculus 183 

Irish, bleached 184 

kiln dried Danish 184 

Konisberg 180 

light and heavy 182 

magnified English 183 

magnified musty 189 

new Irish feed 181 

Petersburg 180 

Scotch, second quality 184 

should be always bought by 

weight 181 

when musty are covered with 

fungi 189 

Observe that both shoulders are of 

the same bulk 417 

the eating capabilities of horses.. 354 

Objections to drinks 73 

Odd feet are evidences of former 

lameness 413 

feet are not uncommon among 

horses 413 

Ointment, blistering, is made with 

refuse flies 82 

Old English shoe 96 

hunter and young man's steed 464 

One failing, the, of horse dealers.... 360 
kind of jibber stops suddenly and 

backs 284 

lateral incisor in both jaws de- 
clares a four-year old 151 

prime foal in two years may be 
better than four bad every year 445 



542 



INDEX. • 



One-year old, a, worked as a matured 

animal..: 143 

Open railings are becoming general. 307 
railings should partly form the 

partitions to loose boxes 307 

the stable doors during the night. 309 
Order the groom to peep during the 
night at the horse which is too 

tired to eat 352 

Original habitat of the equine race. 34 

Ould, the, mare 447 

Over-indulgence ruins the horse 454 

Oxyen, different quantities of, in- 
haled by different horses 402 



P. 

Pace natural to blindness is induced 
by fixing the head with the 

bearing-rein 407 

Pad grooms, their weight, their 

qualifications, and their duties.. 334 
Pail, a clean one, should be kept in 

every stable 178 

Pain consequent upon eating the 

stable diet 169 

expressed by any peculiarity in 

progression 103 

from strain on the ligaments oc- 
casions inveterate kicking 271 

merely increases timidity 293 

Panic acts on horses as on men 226 

Paring the foot 102 

Parts affected in "kidney dropping" 270 
Passion an evil quality in a groom.. 500 
Pastern bones repose upon the back 

tendons 43 

play of, in thorough-breds, proof 

of elasticity in the entire body. 115 
the, are regulated by the flexor 

tendons 411 

the, should be judged by the 

swelling beneath the elbow 412 

Patented food, only the groom's se- 
cret largely acted upon 166 

Patent foods 196 

safety-spring stirrup bar 510 

trace shaft recommended in spinal 

disease 276 

Pattern of grating to put over gut- 
ters 300 

Patience is more than a virtue in a 

teacher 457 

Pay a fair price for good a horse.... 375 
Peculiar features of the fore limb... 409 

Peep, a, into a dealer's yard 305 

Peril of turning horses to graze with- 
out removing the halters 225 

Perils attending fright in the stable.. 209 
of modern coach-houses 323 



Period of gestation in the mare 448 

Permanent incisors come up in the 

same canals as the milk teeth 

occupied 159 

molars are not perfected when cut 156 
Perspiration implies cuticular ac- 
tivity 345 

when excessive, greatly weakens 

the body 465 

Perversity of the old agricultural 

mind 447 

Petersburg oats 180 

Physic and its administration 53 

Pinning up subsequent to bleeding.. 92 

Pitiable "vice" in horses 254 

Place of birth, the, also regulates the 

kind of hoof 413 

the, is cleared before the stable 

flooring is disturbed 249 

two powerful men to prevent the 

jibber bolting 283 

Plan of hot water service 322 

Points, their importance and their 

development 379 

made to screw on to shoe, a good 

substitute for roughing 129 

of the blood haunches 419 

Portrait of a one-year old 143 

Position of the bones in the straight 

shoulder 405 

of the foot casts the weight on 

different structures 253 

Posterior limbs have no motion or 

sensation during a fit of kidney 

dropping 267 

Precautions necessary after bleeding 93 
necessary when bleeding the horse 90 

Prejudices concerning blisters 80 

Prejudice concerning the ears of a 

horse 282 

declares in favor of a short neck.. 392 

Preparation for scurfy skin 337 

Prepared horse skin boot is the best 

application for cutting 128 

Preparing the lying-in chamber 440 

for the event 441 

Present mode of shoeing is a failure. 104 

Presents, occasional, to servants 493 

Price, the, of most carriages 477 

Pricking the foot when nailing 100 

Pride, the, of the trade 360 

Prime horses are often bought on 

speculation by dealers 376 

Prisons should be built to resist the 

captives' utmost exertions 219 

Probable result of a man enduring 

the horse's doom for one week.. 206 
Profit and loss of a dealer's estab- 
lishment 866 

Proper mode of preparing stems for 

food 177 



INDEX. 



543 



Proper treatmant would be far the 

cheapest in the long run 222 

Properties of the horn forming the 

wall of the hoof. 98 

Proposed stables are not to be 

measured by existing buildings. 297 

Prolonged action is better than ex- 
cessive labor 468 

Protect the points of flexion before 

blistering 83 

Proved, that the horse cannot be 

vicious 264 

Provision against the ravenous feed- 
ing horse 312 

Prudence is banished by joy when 

the horse is leaving the stables.. 237 

Puller, a, is always a dangerous ser- 
vant 398 

Pumping action necessary for the 

circulation of the foot 246 

Punish the smith who injures the 

hoof to tix on to it a small shoe. 131 

Pupil of the horss's eye not circular 31 

Purchases necessary when the horse 

is started 497 

Pure breeds often have bulging, 

frontal sinuses 394 

Purpose of the pastern joints 411 



Q. 

Qualifications of the author to des- 
cant on breeding 427 

Quarrels are provoked by narrow 

doorways 236 

between horse and driver gen- 
erally end fatally 264 

Quarters, hind, the seat of propul- 
sion 45 

Quarters of the hoof are left free by 

nailing the new shoe to the toe. 114 

Quiet method of giving a drink 77 

mode of giving a ball 67 

Quietude and darkness do not dis- 
pose the horse to sleep 311 



B. 

Eacers, when training, undergo ex- 
cessive labor 466 

generally are old before their 

stock becomes famous 431 

inhale more air during rapid mo- 
tion 403 

Racing men and bumpkins, their 

conduct contrasted 144 

Racing plates 115 

are dangerous shoes during the 
struggle 472 



Railroads not opposed to the breed 

of horses 18 

Rats enter stables through ordinary 

gutters 300 

Rat tails are said to denote good 

horses 387 

Rayment's, (Mr. C.,) his oatmeal 

recommended 178 

Rebound or spring of the racer im- 
proved by the present mode of 

shoeing 115 

Recapitulation of certain points in 

the horse 416 

Receiving the first lesson 458 

Reflection needed to comprehend the 

requirements of the horse 200 

Regular horse dealers avoid flats 363 

Regulations to be observed at feed- 
ing time 191 

Pteins, the necessity of good leather 

for 517 

for foals should be partly of India- 
rubber 459 

Remedies for a scurfy skin 290 

for clicking 126 

for cutting 122 

for wounds and abrasions 231 

Repeated blows on one spot, evil of, 

when bleeding 91 

Requisites for the groom's use 500 

indications of a well-built car- 
riage 485 

Respect is felt toward a person who 

can state his wants to a dealer. 374 

Rest depends upon digestion 311 

generally good for pedal annoy- 
ances 126 

is imperfect when taken standing. 260 

Restless eye, a, denotes timidity 396 

Restlessness induces the collar-rope 

to be bitten 215 

Results of deranged digestion 196 

Retention of the placenta 442 

Rick of the back 264 

disables a horse as a wheeler or 

to endure excessive strain 275 

is severe in heavy horses 273 

often leads to fracture of the spine 276 
or chink of the back is common, 

but little understood 266 

Ride, to, is not necessary in a good 

groom 333 

Rider, the, and the head destroy the 

equality of weight on the limbs. 417 
should understand the appear- 
ances of the healthy eye 290 

swings on elastic life when seated 

on the back 41 

Ridiculous to talk of a horse being 

"vicious" 263 

Rising to the leap 461 



544 



INDEX. 



Koacli backs are common on the 

Essex marshes 384 

generally spiteful 384 

have been used as hunters 385 

EoUing occasions the hind leg to get 

beyond the post of the stall 230 

Roof consists of two parts 314 

of the ambulatory, how supported 

and drained 302 

the, described 314 

Room for the night-watcher is sup- 
plied with comforts 325 

Rooms at back divided from the sta- 
ble by a stout wall 316 

Roomy mares are a mistake 429 

Roots are relished by horses 195 

Roughing, as generally performed... 128 
Rough-riding is practiced at three 

years of age 147 

Rounded incisors would prevent the 

animal biting the grass 289 

Roundness of the jaw's lower mar- 
gin during colthood 142 

Rowen hay 174 

Rules for selecting a sire 438 

Running away 294 



S. 



Sacrum, the, is one bone in the adult 38 
Saddle-tree, a, with spring stirrup- 
bar attached 495 

Saddlery and harness 494 

Safety is sacrificed by the violent use 

of the bearing-rein 407 

Sameness of diet deranges the diges- 
tion 195 

of provender induces cutaneous 

irritability 286 

proves vice to be induced by dis- 
ease or by instinct 295 

Sand in the eye, the horse protected 

against 35 

Savage horse, how to render quiet... 60 

Scene witnessed at Holloway 294 

Science has demonstrated the mews 

is an unhealthy abode 328 

and practice unite in estimation 

of the loins 383 

Scotland, the ass does not breed in.. 49 
Scratching the ear often fixes the 

hind pastern in the collar-rope. 224 
Screw shoe, folly and inhumanity of. 118 

Scroll-eyed hames 506 

Seated shoe 117 

Second crop of clover 175 

Secretions, though hard, are gov- 
erned by the inward soft organs 118 

Section of a superficial gutter 299 

of the proposed stables 324 



See-sawing, or weaving, in horses... 205 

Segundo bit, the 523 

Senses, the special, assist one an- 
other 398 

Serious accident to a cavalry oflBcer. 272 

Servants exaggerate the master's 

behavior 202 

Seven o'clock duties 339 

Seventh year, the, should witness the 

active service of the horse 462 

Several diseases are almost J)eculiar 

to the rich 323 

Severity endangers man's property 

in the horse 255 

Sharp-pointed nail heads no effect- 
ual substitute for roughing 129 

Shedding of the temporary molars.. 156 

Shelter and nurture are requisite 

for all young horses 429 

Sheltered ground between the gig 

and coach houses 320 

Ship biscuit proposed for horses' 

food 195 

Shoe is displaced by growth of horn 106 
is wide enough if it supports the 
wall 104 

Shoeing 95 

blamed for all the changes in the 
foot 101 

Shoes act injuriously by confining 

the foot 472 

the, should be observed at the 
time of purchase 424 

Short-necked horses cannot rest the 

limbs when at grass 392 

horses feed badly in the field 392 

Sides of the ventilator can be opened 

or closed at pleasure 315 

Sight should be obscured during the 

act of bleeding 91 

Sights of London streets 199 

Signs of old age in the horse 136 

Situation of the cistei'n 313 

Six o'clock duties 339 

Size and requirements of stable 

doors 307 

of less import than form of thorax. 403 

Skeletons in museums are never cor- 
rect 408 

Skin and lungs sympathize with each 

other 344 

Slanting floors pervert the inten- 
tions of bone and tendon 251 

hoofs are very bad 414 

pavement causes horses to stand 

across the stall 254 

shoulder, the benefits of 408 

Sliding mouth bit, the 524 

Slight movements excite the atten- 
tion of a stabled horse 203 

Slipper shoe, first mention of Ill 



INDEX. 



545 



Sloping pavement, a, extends from 

the front of the ambulatory...... 319 

Sloth not favorable to paternity 437 

Slow consuming boiler employed to 

warm the stables 321 

Small animals are preferred for their 

working capability 433 

stables do not generally kill be- 
cause they are draughty 81 

Smallness of neck shows debility... 389 
Snares which surround the groom... 330 

So-called "incapacitating vices" 263 

Society forces horse dealers to era- 
ploy fiction 360 

the, for preventing cruelty to ani- 
mals 476 

Soft palate, some of the uses of. 28 

Sole is removed by the shoeing smith 

and the veterinary surgeon 104 

made to bear some pressure 104 

Some English thorough-breds have 

Roman noses 394 

substitute should be found for a 

stud groom 335 

Southern end of the proposed stable. 319 
Space, the, above the horses should 

be free to the roof 332 

Spasmodic inhalation denotes defec- 



Stables as built — are they the best 

possible? 252 

are paved with Dutch clinkers 249 

as they should be 297 

do not require a blaze of light.... 229 
in many families, are regarded as 

lumber lofts 220 

promote the decomposition of 

urine 249 

should be as clean as dairies 316 

Stablemen suffer most from present 

customs 226 

Stagnant misery is personified in the 

horse 243 

Stallions are generally too fat 431 

Standing in the manger 208 

while it sleeps 260 

Starvation is injurious before exer- 
tion 471 

Starved, horses are, when confined 

in small stables 81 

Steeds are worn out serving more 

than one master 334 

Steel inserted at the toe of the clip 

shoe 120 

Stewart's stable economy 234 

Stiff back reduces the horse's value. 278 
Stick, blood, depicted 90 



tive respiration 399 Stomach small and well situated 20 



Special senses, the, should be noted 
as testifying to the health of the 

body 398 

Speedy cut often causes a fall 121 

warrants instant rejection 423 

Spinal cord, the, is injured when 

"kidney dropping" occurs 269 

Spine, how the bones of are united.. 39 
sinks and rises in the living horse 383 
the, of a horse is delicately or- 
ganized 265 

the base of the skeleton 38 

Spring bar and spring stirrup 510 

Squatting on the haunches is an un- 
natural position in the horse.... 267 
Stable implements are terrible weap- 
ons 318 

pails are not suited to contain a 

horse's drink 314 

the, cannot be well managed by 

one pair of hands 339 

is relinquished to the servant 335 

the only one known to the ass 48 

new, will be thrice drained 301 

Stables are inadequate prisons for 

horses 219 

not proportioned to the horse's 

size 225 

opposed to the habits and instincts 

of horses 247 

the last considered when houses 
are planned 233 



Stout horn is required in the hoof of 

a horse 415 

Stranger, a, has entered the stable.. 204 
Strange substances eaten in stables. 196 
Straw figure should be placed on the 

colt's back 458 

worthless as food 177 

Striking a horse when passing 

through a door is dangerous.... 238 
Strong feet are not necessarily liable 

to disease 414 

Submissive, the, are the abused 234 

Substance is absent in the present 

breed of horses 432 

Substances which do not nourish are 

not food 193 

Suburban grooms generally live in 

the house... 328 

Suburbs, the, are often disturbed by 

the thud of a trotted cart 274 

Successful dealers are conceited 377 

Sudden agony makes horses kick 

when mounted 271 

Suffering experienced at three years 148 

Sulphur on oats, to detect 185 

Summered _• 474 

Summer's coat, advent of, is delayed 

by clipping 344 

Supposed ijlaces of the groom's resi- 
dence during certain periods.,.. 329 

Supply of water, how arranged 313 

Swerving is a mild form of shying.. 292 

85 



546 



INDEX. 



T. 



Tails as denoting breed 387 

Tail, the, acts as the rudder of the 

body 380 

Take everything coolly when in a 

dealer's yard 374 

Tale, a, illustrative of patience 520 

Tapidum lucidum, its uses in the 

horse's eye .- 32 

Tares are good food 189 

Tax, a, is demanded on all that en- 
ters or leaves the stable 330 

Tearing the clothing 287 

Teeth 133 

at advanced periods 161, 162 

at birth 139 

cannot be positively interpreted 

after the fifth year 163 

one fortnight old 140 

three months old 140 

Telescopic nature of the horse's eye. 38 

Temporary loose box 356 

molars, peculiarity in the shed- 
ding of the 156 

Tempting position of the manger 210 

Tendon cannot sustain pressure 254 

Ten o'clock duties 341 

Terrible conseq^uences of thought- 
lessness, or of parsimony 262 

Terror is never removed till the 

horse's spirit is broken 240 

is dangerous as the place of its 

exhibition is circumscribed 255 

mistaken for "vice" 109 

Test for "kidney dropping" 268 

Thickness of neck not an objection.. 389 

jaw caused by young teeth 142 

Things needed to drees a sensitive 

horse 289 

Thin heeled shoe pointed the toe 

upward, and did harm 120 

neck accompanies emaciation 460 

stomachs often taken from the 

bodies of old horses 178 

walls, difficulty of nailing a shoe 

on 100 

web to the seated shoe 117 

ear denotes goodness of breed 395 

Thinning the sole 103 

Thirst, a consequence of dry food... 167 
Thorough-bred quarters express de- 
termination 419 

Three purgatives cannot promote 

strength 465 

quarter shoe 116 

Time should be allowed for nervous- 
ness to subside 240 

the, occupied in foaling is short... 439 

Times when the horse feeds 197 

Timidity flies from any danger 281 



Tips afford all the protection the 

racer's foot requires 473 

Toe is cut and burnt when the horse 

shoe has a clip 108 

reasons for fixing nails into 113 

Toes, the, in the forefeet point up- 
ward in the stable 243 

the, depressed in the gutter cause 

a luxurious sense of ease 256 

To fly from danger is an instinct in 

the horse 295 

make gruel properly 178 

Tool-house at the back of stables.... 818 
Tools necessary for White's mode of 

roughing 180 

the, employed for carriages 480 

Too many classes swindle when 

horse dealing 269 

Tooth, its component substances 157 

Torture is a favorite mode of cure 

with grooms 287 

Town grooms inhabit impure rooms 

over the stables 328 

Trainer's, the, stables are foul 467 

Training and running are bad prep- 
arations for paternity 429 

folly of the present system 187 

necessary for young horses from 

the country 366 

spoils the tempers of many colts.. 470 
stables do not develop the true 

disposition of a horse 434 

Treading on an upright nail 101 

Treatment for jibbing 283 

for kidney dropping 268 

for rick of the back 275 

of the ass reprobated 47 

of the blood stallion 431 

of the heels when dirty 350 

proper for the blood mare 485 

Troughs are empty while the cistern 

contains some watei; 321 

Tuition should be daily till the sec- 
ond year 459 

Turkish slipper, likeness to 102 

Tushes are affected by age 161 

are uncertain teeth in the horse... 150 

Twitch, a, generally kept 74 

Two chains and a collar-strap are 

employed on some horses 217 

kinds of cutting 121 

men meeting on a hill do not re- 
tain their relative positions 254 



U. 

Uncertain which shoe will prevent 

clicking or forging 125 

Unclothing the beauty 37C 



INDEX. 



547 



Undulating pavement affords every 

kind of standing ground 299 

Unfitness of horses for captivity... . 203 
Uninitiated, the, greedy for bar- 
gains 277 

Unnecessary, bleeding is 93 

Upland hay 172 

the only good hay 176 

Upright pasterns denote hard work 

h-as strained the flexor muscles. 411 
Urine, on exposure yields ammo- 
nia. 249 

stagnates in the gutters 249 

Use of the mane and tail 380 

Uses of the different components of 

the teeth 158 

of the false nostril 25 

of the harness-room 317 

of the sheltered space 320 

to which stable doors are sub- 
ject 236 

Usual applications, the, check the 

hoofs perspiratory functions... 353 
explanation, accounting for the 

weakness of the fore limbs 416 

length of horse cloths 350 

method of cleansing the heels 346 

Utter darkness excites timidity 226 



V. 

Valves aid the circulation when op- 
posed to gravity 245 

in the veins of the leg 244 

of jugular veins only act when 
the head is depressed 22 

Various people buy and sell horses. 357 
substances are interposed between 
the ends of bone 42 

Veins so arranged as to prevent 
congestion if feeding off the 
ground 21 

Ventilation ' secured by having the 

doors in parts 308 

Ventilator roofed with stout glass... 315 

Vertebrae, the, are the base of the 

skeleton 380 

Vetches, on which agricultural teams 

live, indicate no danger in beans 468 

Veterinary examiners too often neg- 
lect the spine 277 

profession composed of imper- 
fectly educated men 73 

Vicious horses are mostly weakly 

creatures 418 

View extended by mounting on to 

the manger 210 

Voice, the, is sufiicient goad for a 

willing animal 460 



W. 

Walking a horse is more than simply 

moving. 124 

through the stables and phj sick- 
ing the stock 377 

essential to the horse's foot 246 

Wall of the hoof 98 

the, is struck during darkness 258 

Warranties are of no value 370 

Waste of present feeding 193 

Wasting the hay 212 

Watch the action while the horse is 

being run along the ride 423 

Water, its importance in the stable.. 486 

should be freely employed 338 

should only be applied to the heels 

after special permission 352 

troughs described 818 

Weakly or healthy foals now suck 

only the same time 446 

Weakness is not the accompaniment 

of the racer's elastic pastern.... 411 

Weariness cannot promote thrift 249 

induces the horse to play with its 

needless corn 213 

Weaving is an effort to promote the 

circulation of the foot 250 

or see-sawing in horses 205 

Web slants in the seated shoe 117 

none to the slipper shoe Ill 

the, of the shoe serves to retain 

stones 103 

Wedged-heeled shoe, danger of 119 

Weeds of the blood stock 422 

Weight should not be put on horses 

during training 468 

the, of the head is not felt during 

health 388 

Well-bred, the, and coarse-bred 

heads contrasted 393 

Wetting the heels most injurious.... 346 
What occasions horses to kick by 

night? 228 

Wheels, how long these should 

last 488 

how to use and understand 491 

When a part of the frame moves, all 

pai'ts are agitated 150 

buying, procure a horse rather too 

strong than strong enough 374 

gentlemen meddle, the dealer ex- 
ults 372 

the foal quits its dam, breaking 

should commence 458 

Where the fore limb quits the trunk, 

muscle should abound 409 

White horses are generally old 186 

Why a carriage should be cleansed 

from mud 487 

breeding does not pay 428 



548 



INDEX. 



Widest, the, of modern stable doors 

are too narrow 238 

Width of channel testifies to the 

breathing capability 399 

Wild animals are not caged like the 

horse 202 

horses nowhere exist 37 

Wind sucking caused by stables 205 

Windpipe capable of contraction 26 

Winter's frost always takes horse 

proprietors by surprise 126 

Winter shoes are best made in sum- 
mer 126 

Wintry perspirations, probable cause 

of 343 

Wipe the oil oflf after blistering 83 

Wired-in hoofs are bad 415 

Wisp and brush are abused 342 

Withhold all medicine from the 

breeding mare 443 

Wolves' teeth are of no importance. 143 



Work demands more support than 

grass affords 133 

when not excessive, benefits health 435 

Worked too early 19 

Worst cheat, the, in horse flesh 357 

Wound, precautions necessary after 

bleeding 93 

Written warranties seldom required 

by the honest dealer 365 

Wrongs inflicted on horses 199 



Y. 

Yew clippings poison horses 171 

Young animals are purchased by the 

London dealers 366 

horses are put in the chains as 

teamsters 266 

horses should be from birth set 
apart for their future uses 433 



TDK END. 



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LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 



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